Human Resources Associate

Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping America and the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research in the areas of race and ethnicity; U.S. politics and policy views; media and journalism; internet and technology; science and society; religion and public life; global attitudes and U.S. social and demographic trends. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. The Center’s work is carried out by a staff of about 180. 

Position Overview 

The Human Resources Associate plays a central role in supporting the people and processes that enable Pew Research Center’s mission. As a key member of a collaborative HR team, this position combines day-to-day operational excellence with meaningful contributions to recruiting, onboarding, and staff engagement. 

This role offers the opportunity to shape the employee experience, from first interactions with candidates to ongoing communication and engagement, while ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of core HR systems and processes. The HR Associate reports to the Director of Human Resources. 

Primary Responsibilities: 

Human Resources Operations 

Provide essential support across the HR function to ensure smooth, accurate, and responsive service delivery: 

• Maintain HR records and systems with a high degree of accuracy and confidentiality 

• Process employment verification requests and administer staff anniversary bonuses 

• Support reporting, follow-up, and general day-to-day HR operations 

• Manage the HR team’s shared project plan in Asana 

• Manage the HR team’s meeting schedule 

• Manage the HR team budget and reconciliation, including the embedded budgets for the staff Workplace Advisory Council and Voices & Values Council 

• Compile quarterly and annual staff metrics reports 

Recruitment and Onboarding 

Contribute directly to the Center’s ability to attract and welcome new talent: 

• Lead full-cycle recruitment for entry-level and early career roles, including drafting job postings, screening candidates, coordinating interviews, and preparing offers 

• Manage onboarding processes, ensuring compliance with all pre-employment requirements (background checks, references, relocation, etc.) 

• Manage new hire relocation communication, receipt collection and reimbursement  

• Coordinate and deliver new employee orientation, helping to create a positive and engaging introduction to the organization 

Staff Engagement and Communication 

Help foster an informed and connected workplace: 

• Manage HR-related content on the staff intranet (The Lede) and support internal communications such as the weekly staff update 

• Assist in planning and executing HR-sponsored events and initiatives 

• Support the annual staff survey process, including vendor coordination, data preparation, and reporting 

• Manage the new hire and exit interview processes and contribute to regular reporting of insights and trends 

• Ensure adherence to organizational policies and procedures 

• Perform other duties as assigned 

QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience; college courses in business, non-profit administration, and/or Human Resources preferred 

• 3-5 years of experience in an office environment, preferably in a support role in administration or Human Resources 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills 

• Capability to effectively communicate with all levels of staff and external audiences verbally and in writing 

• Ability to deal with a range of styles and behaviors in a tactful, pleasant, and personal manner 

• Professional demeanor and conduct in all interactions, both internally and externally 

• Ability to multi-task, work under pressure, and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines 

• Strong administrative skills and basic software competencies in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint 

• Experience in Workday HRIS and PeopleSoft preferred  

FLSA status: Exempt  

Typical starting salary for HR Associate: $69,000 

Hybrid Work Schedule: Pew Research Center staff are required to be present in the Center's Washington, D.C., office three core days weekly (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday). Staff may work virtually from remote locations on other days in a typical work week. 

Application Procedure 

Click on the Apply button, and complete required fields. Both cover letter and resume are .