Human Resources Officer

Donegalchildcare; Ireland; On-site; EUR 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading childcare provider in Ireland is seeking a Human Resources Officer to enhance their team and ensure compliance with employment legislation and childcare standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in HR, excellent communication skills, and experience in managing recruitment and employee relations. They will play a crucial role in fostering a positive workplace culture, aid in staff development, and ensure alignment with legal requirements. Opportunities for professional growth are offered in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Professional growth opportunities

Supportive work environment

Impactful role in children’s development

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in an HR role.
• Experience in education or early years sector preferred.
• Familiarity with Tusla/Department of Education requirements is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Manage recruitment processes from advertising to onboarding.
• Maintain confidential employee records in compliance with GDPR.
• Ensure compliance with employment law and Childcare Regulations.
• Develop and update HR policies and procedures.
• Support staff training and professional development.
• Handle employee relations processes.
• Monitor leave entitlements and attendance records.
• Provide HR guidance to management and staff.
• Support goal-setting and performance appraisals.
• Foster an inclusive workplace culture.

Skills

Knowledge of Irish employment law

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Organisational skills

Time-management skills

MS Office proficiency

HR software systems proficiency

Education

Third-level qualification in Human Resources or related field

Job description

Wonderyears is a leading provider of Early Childhood Care and Education in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. We are committed to providing a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment for children to grow, learn, and thrive. As we continue to expand, we are seeking a Human Resources Officer to support our team and ensure compliance with all relevant employment legislation and childcare sector standards.

Qualifications Required

A third-level qualification in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.

Strong knowledge of Irish employment law and HR compliance requirements.

Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to manage sensitive information with professionalism and confidentiality.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritise workload effectively.
• Proficiency in MS Office and HR software systems.
• Familiarity with the early years sector and Tusla/Department of Education requirements (desirable but not essential).

Experience Required

Minimum of 2 years’ experience in an HR role, ideally within education, early years sector, or a similar sector.

Further Information

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the recruitment process, including advertising roles, shortlisting candidates, conducting interviews, and onboarding and inducting new staff.
• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records in line with GDPR requirements.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant employment law, Childcare Regulations, and Tusla/Department of Education requirements.
• Develop and update HR policies, procedures, and staff handbooks.
• Support staff training and professional development planning, including CPD and mandatory certifications.
• Handle employee relations, including grievance and disciplinary processes.
• Monitor leave entitlements and attendance records.
• Provide guidance to management and staff on HR best practices.
• Support managers in setting goals and conducting appraisals, while monitoring performance and ensuring fair, consistent management of underperformance.
• Develop and implement structured feedback mechanisms to support employee growth and accountability.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture.
• Contribute to workforce planning, ensuring staffing levels and skills match organisational needs.
• Support the development of employee engagement and retention strategies to strengthen team commitment and reduce turnover.
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across the organisation.
• Assist in organisational change and development projects, ensuring smooth transitions and alignment with strategic objectives.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• The chance to make a meaningful impact in an organisation that supports children’s learning and development.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to send their CV and cover letter to [e-mail].