HR Officer

Location: Mansfield Road, Oxford

About the role

The Department of Chemistry is seeking a proactive, collaborative and detail-orientated HR Officer to deliver a high-quality, customer-focused HR service across one of Oxford’s largest departments.

Reporting to one of two Senior HR Officers, you will support day-to-day HR operations and be the first point of contact for staff and visitors. You’ll provide a high-quality, customer-focused HR service, supporting recruitment, onboarding, and a range of HR administrative functions across the department.

Key responsibilities include advising on employment matters, overseeing recruitment and onboarding, managing new starter process and administering changes to employment contracts. You will also need to demonstrate attention to details and compliance across payroll, right-to-work, and data processes.

You’ll join a supportive and professional HR team that values partnership, integrity, and innovation. This varied role offers the opportunity to shape how we work and make a meaningful contribution to a world-leading academic department.

About you

You’ll be an organised, dependable team player who thrives in a busy HR environment. You’ll bring relevant HR administrative experience with a proven ability to manage multiple administrative processes with accuracy and attention to detail.

You will demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a customer-focused, “can-do” attitude. You will be able to show an ability to prioritise, meet deadlines, and work both independently and collaboratively.

A confidence using systems such as MS Office and HR databases (experience with PeopleXD or similar is an advantage). Alongside this a knowledge of employment law and right-to-work procedures is also an essential skill needed.

An experience in Higher Education or a similar service-led environment and a familiarity with UK immigration and visa processes are desirable.

You may also have CIPD Level 5 qualification or equivalent HR experience and an experience with financial or payroll administration.

The post will be based in the Department of Chemistry.

We are looking for someone to start in this role as soon as possible.

Application Process

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online (via the ‘Apply’ button above) and you will be required to upload a supporting statement and CV as part of your application. In your supporting statement (< 2 pages), please explain how you meet each of the selection criteria found in the job description.

The closing date for applications is 12.00 midday, 11 November 2025, UK time. Interviews will take place during week commencing 17 November 2025 and will be face to face.

The University of Oxford and The Department of Chemistry are Silver Athena SWAN holders and committed to equality and valuing diversity.

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