Talent Acquisition Specialist

Department: Human Resources

Reports to: Director of Human Resources

FLSA Status: Exempt

Location: Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) - Des Moines, IA (On-Site)

Your Mission: Build the Team That Builds Our Mission

Are you passionate about connecting people with purpose? At the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, the Talent Acquisition Specialist plays a vital role in shaping the team that drives our lifesaving mission forward. This position is ideal for someone who thrives on meaningful connection, strategic thinking, and the opportunity to build a workplace culture centered on compassion, teamwork, and impact.

In this role, you'll lead recruitment efforts from start to finish, collaborate with hiring managers, create a seamless and welcoming onboarding experience, and support a variety of human resources functions that strengthen the employee lifecycle. If you're ready to bring your recruiting expertise to a mission-driven organization where every hire helps save lives, this is your chance.

What You'll Do

You'll take ownership of the full-cycle recruitment process, from crafting job postings to sourcing candidates, conducting interviews, and extending offers. You'll collaborate closely with department leaders to develop effective staffing strategies and attract diverse, mission-aligned talent. As the face of the ARL at career fairs and recruitment events, you'll help share our story and culture with potential candidates. You'll also manage onboarding and orientation to ensure every new team member starts off informed, supported, and excited. In addition, you'll serve as a primary point of contact for employee benefits administration, assist with open enrollment, and support HR initiatives as assigned. Data-driven by nature, you'll track and analyze recruitment metrics to guide ongoing improvements in our hiring practices.

What You Bring

You have a bachelor's degree in Human Resources or a related field, or equivalent professional experience. You have at least one year of HR experience, ideally with direct recruiting responsibilities. SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification is a plus. You bring strong communication and interpersonal skills, and you're comfortable advising and collaborating with hiring managers. You know how to create effective sourcing strategies across a wide range of roles and are confident using applicant tracking systems, preferably ADP. You're organized, deadline-driven, and familiar with employment laws and recruitment best practices.

Working Conditions

This is a primarily office-based role that requires prolonged periods working at a desk and on a computer. Occasional lifting up to 15 lbs may be required. The role operates in an animal-friendly environment where allergens such as pet dander and fur are present. Occasional travel for recruitment events is expected.

Why Work at the ARL?

When you join the ARL, you're not just taking a job - you're becoming part of a team dedicated to making a difference. Every hire you support helps save lives and build a stronger, more compassionate future for animals and the people who care for them.

Employment in this position is at-will, meaning that either the employee or the ARL may terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any lawful reason.

Animal Rescue League is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or applicable state regulations, Animal Rescue League will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with Animal Rescue League.

Monday through Friday on-site.

Animal Rescue League of Iowa

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Talent Acquisition Specialist