Staffing Specialist (Chicago)

CONTRACT POSITION

6+ MONTHS

7 PM -7 AM

Job Summary

The Staffing Specialist is responsible for coordinating, scheduling, and maintaining appropriate staffing levels across hospital departments to ensure optimal patient care and operational efficiency. This role works closely with nursing leadership, department managers, and HR to recruit, assign, and manage clinical and non-clinical staff while ensuring compliance with hospital policies and healthcare regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, manage, and maintain staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage across all shifts (24/7 operations).
• Coordinate staffing assignments for nursing units and other hospital departments based on patient census, acuity, and staff availability.
• Monitor staffing levels in real time and make adjustments to address call-offs, emergencies, or fluctuating patient volumes.
• Maintain staffing databases, scheduling systems, and employee records accurately.
• Collaborate with HR and hiring managers to support recruitment efforts, including posting positions, screening candidates, and scheduling interviews.
• Facilitate onboarding and orientation scheduling for new hires.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws, union agreements (if applicable), and hospital staffing policies.
• Track overtime, agency usage, and staffing costs; provide reports and recommendations for optimization.
• Serve as a point of contact for staff scheduling concerns, shift swaps, and time-off requests.
• Communicate effectively with department heads regarding staffing needs and workforce planning.
• Assist in contingency staffing plans during high census, public health emergencies, or staffing shortages.

Qualifications

Education:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Healthcare Administration, or related field preferred.

Experience:

• 2+ years of staffing, scheduling, or workforce coordination experience, preferably in a healthcare or hospital setting.
• Experience with scheduling software or workforce management systems (e.g., Kronos, API Healthcare) is a plus.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to analyze staffing needs and make quick, effective decisions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Knowledge of healthcare staffing requirements and regulations preferred.
• High attention to detail and problem-solving skills.