The HR Generalist serves as a core member of the Athletics Human Resources & Strategic Engagement team, supporting centralized workforce operations within a Division I Power 4/SEC athletics program. This role is responsible for delivering consistent, high-quality HR administration across recruitment, onboarding, employee relations support, performance management coordination, compensation processing, and compliance functions.

Operating in a fast-paced and highly visible athletics environment, the HR Generalist ensures operational accuracy, policy consistency, and timely execution of HR processes across full-time, contract, and part-time staff categories. This position requires strong organizational skills, sound judgment, discretion in handling confidential matters, and the ability to effectively support coaches, administrators, and campus partners.

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The HR Generalist serves as a core member of the Athletics Human Resources & Strategic Engagement team, supporting centralized workforce operations within a Division I Power 4/SEC athletics program. This role is responsible for delivering consistent, high-quality HR administration across recruitment, onboarding, employee relations support, performance management coordination, compensation processing, and compliance functions. Operating in a fast-paced and highly visible athletics environment, the HR Generalist ensures operational accuracy, policy consistency, and timely execution of HR processes across full-time, contract, and part-time staff categories. This position requires strong organizational skills, sound judgment, discretion in handling confidential matters, and the ability to effectively support coaches, administrators, and campus partners.

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Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Sport Management/Administration or related field.
• Experience: 1-3 years of professional experience in Human Resources or related administrative experience (can include graduate assistantships or full-time post-graduate internships).
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Ability to independently research topics and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

  • Ability to manage confidential files and records.

  • Ability to work professionally and confidently with varying levels within the organization.

  • Ability to demonstrate respect for employees and confidential material.

  • Knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices.

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and basic knowledge of various database and software programs.

  • Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills.

  • Ability to follow directions and work effectively as part of a team.

  • Ability to work occasional nights and weekends, as necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Master’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Sport Management/Administration or related field. Professional HR certification such as SHRM-CP or PHR.
• Experience: Experience in a higher education and/or NCAA athletics environment. Experience working in a Division I or Power 4 environment. Experience with HRIS and applicant tracking systems.
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

  • Skilled in project management and ability to work successfully in a fast-paced environment while balancing multiple competing responsibilities.

  • Knowledge and understanding of University of Tennessee, Tennessee Athletics, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and Southeastern Conference (SEC) policies and procedures.

Work Location

• Knoxville, TN
• Onsite

Compensation and Benefits

• UT market range: 07
• Anticipated hiring range: $44,000 - $45,000
• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

About Tennessee Athletics

Tennessee Athletics Mission, Vision & Core Values

Mission: To lead the way forward in all aspects of college sports

Vision: Deliver an unparalleled student-athlete experience fueled by the relentless pursuit of comprehensive excellence; be bold and innovative in our approach to recruiting and developing well-rounded graduates, championship-driven competitors and world-changing leaders.

Core Values: Vols lead through…
» Academic Success
» Inclusive Preeminence
» Honesty and Integrity
» Competitive Excellence
» Holistic Health and Well-Being
» The Power of Vol Nation

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Recruitment & Talent Acquisition:

• Administer full-cycle recruitment processes for the Athletics department, including drafting and updating position descriptions, posting vacancies, supporting search committees, and communicating with applicants.

• Prepare hiring documentation, offer materials, and onboarding paperwork in partnership with Athletics HR leadership and UTK HR.

• Ensure search processes are conducted in alignment with university procedures and equal employment standards.

• Support timely hiring during coaching transitions and peak sport seasons.

Performance Management & Onboarding:

• Coordinate onboarding processes for new hires, including required documentation and compliance training.

• Administer and track the probationary and annual performance evaluation process for Athletics staff.

• Ensure timely completion of required employment documentation and evaluations.

Compensation & Classification Coordination:

• Maintain and update job descriptions to reflect current responsibilities and organizational structure.

• Coordinate compensation actions including salary adjustments, stipends, title updates, and position classification reviews.

• Maintain current organizational charts and staffing records.

HR Systems, Compliance & Reporting:

• Maintain data accuracy within HRIS and applicant tracking systems.

• Assist with required reporting, audits, and workforce data requests.

• Ensure personnel files and documentation meet university and regulatory standards.

Employee Relations & HR Support:

• Serve as an HR resource to assigned departments by providing guidance on university policies, procedures, and workplace standards.

• Assist managers with performance documentation and corrective action processes.

• Support review and documentation of employee concerns in coordination with Athletics HR leadership.

• Maintain strict confidentiality when handling personnel matters.

Strategic Engagement & Retention:

• Coordinate mandatory/optional training, leadership programs, certifications, and individual development plans.

• Lead surveys, recognition programs, culture initiatives, turnover analysis, retention strategies, and departmental strategic planning.

• Drive hiring goals, employee growth and engagement initiatives, and equitable workplace metrics.

Offboarding & Workforce Administration:

• Coordinate employee separation processes, including required documentation and exit procedures.

• Support leave tracking and employment status updates in collaboration with UTK HR.

• Assist with contract tracking and employment lifecycle administration.

Other duties as assigned.