HR Specialist - Talent Acquisition & Onboarding

September 22, 2026
Des Moines, IA, US

About the Role

We are seeking an energetic and people-focused HR Specialist with a strong emphasis on Talent Acquisition to join our Human Resources team. This role is responsible for driving the recruitment process, creating an exceptional candidate experience, leading new hire onboarding and orientation, and supporting talent development initiatives. The ideal candidate enjoys building relationships, coordinating programs, and helping new team members successfully integrate into the firm.

What You'll Do

Talent Acquisition (Primary Focus)

  • Manage full-cycle recruiting, including sourcing, screening, interviewing, coordinating, and extending offers.
  • Partner with leaders to understand hiring needs and develop effective recruitment strategies.
  • Source passive candidates through targeted outreach, networking, and professional relationships.
  • Build and maintain candidate pipelines for current and future hiring needs.
  • Manage applicant tracking system (ATS) workflows and ensure a positive candidate experience.
  • Present qualified candidates to hiring leaders and support employer branding efforts.
  • Collaborate closely with members of the Recruiting Committee to support the full hiring cycle for Summer Associates, including interview coordination, evaluations, and selection processes.
  • Partner with practice group leaders and Recruiting Committee members to identify talent needs and recruit experienced attorneys for growing practice areas.

Onboarding & Orientation

  • Lead and facilitate new hire orientation and onboarding training programs.
  • Coordinate onboarding schedules, logistics, materials, and communications.
  • Ensure new team members receive a welcoming and engaging onboarding experience.
  • Partner with department leaders to support successful new hire integration.
  • Continuously evaluate and improve onboarding processes and resources.

Training & Development Support

  • Coordinate firmwide training sessions and professional development opportunities.
  • Support the development and maintenance of learning resources and training materials.
  • Assist with initiatives that enhance employee growth, engagement, and development.

Summer Associate & Mentorship Programs

  • Assist in planning, coordinating, and executing Summer Associate program.
  • Support recruitment, onboarding, and engagement activities for Summer Associates.
  • Coordinate program communications, schedules, and participant experiences.
  • Help maintain mentorship program structure, resources, and communications.

Talent Programs & HR Projects

  • Support talent attraction initiatives.
  • Assist with recruiting metrics, reporting, and talent acquisition analytics.
  • Participate in special projects and initiatives that enhance the employee experience.
  • Contribute ideas and process improvements that strengthen recruiting and onboarding outcomes.

What You Bring

Required

  • 2+ years of experience in recruiting, talent acquisition, human resources, or a related field.
  • Strong communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
  • Experience coordinating multiple priorities and managing deadlines.
  • Proficiency with applicant tracking systems and Microsoft Office applications.
  • High level of professionalism, organization, and attention to detail.
  • Experience recruiting in a professional services environment.

Preferred

  • Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Communications, or a related field.
  • Experience facilitating onboarding, orientation, or training programs.
  • Experience supporting internship, mentorship, or campus recruiting initiatives.
  • SHRM-CP, PHR, or a desire to pursue HR certification.
  • Experience utilizing ADP Workforce Now or similar HRIS platforms.

Work Environment

This position is based in our Des Moines office and requires regular onsite presence to support employees, candidates, and new hires. The individual in this role is expected to provide HR office coverage through standard business hours, until 5:00 p.m.

Why Join Us?

  • Play a key role in attracting and developing top talent.
  • Make a meaningful impact on the candidate and new hire experience.
  • Collaborate with a supportive and engaged HR team.
  • Help shape talent acquisition and onboarding programs that support firm growth.
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.