People Systems Specialist

The People Systems Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day administration, support, and optimization of the organization's People Team technology ecosystem, anchored by the Ceridian Dayforce platform. This role supports core HRIS functionality along with connected systems including the Applicant Tracking System (ATS), engagement survey tools, recognition platforms, and performance management systems. 

This position plays a key role in maintaining system integrity, improving processes, and supporting a high-performing sports organization. The People Systems Specialist partners closely with cross-functional stakeholders to enhance the employee experience, ensure accurate data, and help deliver efficient, scalable People processes.

This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and enjoys working directly in systems to solve problems and improve operations. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

People Systems Administration & Support 

• Administer and maintain Dayforce and other People Team systems (ATS, engagement, recognition, performance) 
• Configure and support workflows, forms, organizational structure and business processes in the HRIS 
• Serve as a primary point of contact for system questions, troubleshooting, and issue resolution 
• Manage user access, security roles, and permissions across systems 
• Assist with system updates, releases, testing, and new functionality

Data Management & Integrity 

• Maintain accurate and secure employee data across all People systems 
• Perform routine audits and resolve discrepancies between systems 
• Support data governance practices and ensure compliance with policies and regulations 
• Maintain documentation related to system processes and data standards 

Reporting & Analytics 

• Build and maintain standard and ad hoc reports across People systems (recruiting, engagement, performance, etc.) 
• Support data requests from People Team and business stakeholders 
• Analyze trends and deliver actionable insights 

Process Support & Optimization 

• Identify opportunities to streamline and improve People Team workflows through system enhancements 
• Support automation of manual processes across the employee lifecycle (recruiting, onboarding, payroll, engagement, performance) 
• Assist in documenting processes, procedures, and system configurations 
• Enhance employee experience through effective system use 

Integrations & Technical Coordination 

• Support integrations between Dayforce and third-party systems (ATS, payroll, benefits, etc.) 
• Assist with troubleshooting data flow and integration issues in partnership with IT and vendors 
• Participate in testing and validation of system changes and integrations 
• Support onboarding of new entities or system expansions as needed 

Cross-Functional Partnership 

• Partner with the People Team, Talent Acquisition, Payroll, IT, Finance, and other stakeholders 
• Gather requirements and support implementation of system improvements 
• Provide end-user training and guidance 
• Support People Team programs, including recruiting, engagement initiatives, and performance cycles 

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

• Advise team on report selection based on data needs 
• Collaborate with colleagues to resolve data and data source issues
• Ensure high standards of data privacy, accuracy, and quality  
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify areas for improvement and implement solutions that enhance efficiency and employee experience. 
• Acts as a technical expert across People systems, including APIs and integrations 
• Utilize automation tools when possible to streamline the experience of all people 
• Analyze workforce metrics and recommend improvements 
• Support design and implementation of systems for operational needs 
• Manage the workflow of people processes during the employee lifecycle 
• Must be motivated, reliable, and able to work independently or as part of a team 
• Maintain professionalism when communicating with internal and external contacts 
• Present findings using various analytical and visual tools 
• Demonstrates accuracy, efficiency, and ability to meet deadlines 
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills 
• The ability to gather and quickly analyze information skillfully and develop effective solutions 
• Will adjust work schedule to meet departmental demands 
• Will keep appropriate information confidential 
• Will accept other responsibilities and duties required by the supervisor consistent with the objectives and essential functions of this position. Such responsibilities shall be incorporated into the position description if they are ongoing. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Education & Experience 

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience) 
• At least 3 years of HRIS or People systems experience 
• Hands-on experience with HCM systems (Dayforce strongly preferred) 
• Experience supporting multiple People systems (ATS, engagement, performance, or recognition tools) 
• Thorough knowledge of HR principles, best practices, and federal/local regulations 
• Experience on HR/People teams with providing and actioning on quantitative reporting and analytics 
• Experience turning data into a narrative with visualizations (e.g. charts, graphs, tables) and presenting to HR professionals and Leaders 
• Working knowledge of capacity planning and/or HR Operations 

Technical Skills 

• Experience with system configuration, reporting, and user security 
• Expert in Excel; with ability and experience with reporting or visualization tools (e.g., Power BI) is a plus 
• Technical proficiency in SQL, XML and VBA strongly preferred 
• Familiarity with integrations (APIs, SFTP, or data interfaces) preferred 
• Experience with version control systems (like Git) a plus 

Core Skills 

• Detail-oriented with the ability to organize, multitask, and prioritize within a fast-paced, dynamic environment 
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving ability 
• Effective communication and stakeholder support skills 
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment 
• Team-oriented mindset with a focus on service and continuous improvement 
• Experience developing client-oriented solutions, with an emphasis on creativity and diligence, displaying excellent communication skills and attention to detail 
• Strong work ethic, organization skills, the desire to learn, exchange knowledge and is not afraid to ask questions 
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills with the ability to communicate with employees at all levels 
• Be a thought partner for the People Team to provide insights and recommendations grounded in data and drive positive change by challenging the status quo
• Ability to prioritize and work effectively in an environment with competing demands
• Ability to maintain confidentiality related to sensitive company and employee information 
• Ambitious self-starter and creative problem solver  
• Embraces change with a positive attitude and feels comfortable with ambiguity and is resilient in change 
• Ability to collaborate and effectively communicate with all levels of the organization and external partners 
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a team 
• Operates with a high level of humility, thoughtfulness, and integrity 
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and holidays 
• May require work out of both the Ford Field Management Office and the Meijer Performance Center 
• A valid Driver's License and good driving record 

What Success Looks Like 

• People systems are reliable, accurate, and well-maintained 
• Data is consistent and audit-ready across platforms 
• Processes are efficient and continuously improving 
• Stakeholders receive timely support and useful reporting 
• Employees have a smooth, connected experience across People systems