HR Specialist - Military-to-Civilian Talent Transition

We’re building a high-impact initiative in Nashville to help military veterans move into meaningful civilian careers. We’re looking for an HR Specialist focused on military transition — someone who understands both the HR/talent side and the unique realities of leaving the military. This is not a traditional non-profit role; we need someone who can operate in startup mode: proactive, fast-moving, metrics-driven, and comfortable with pressure and accountability. You’ll be directly responsible for identifying, preparing, and placing veterans into roles where they can thrive — and proving it with results. Key Responsibilities:- Veteran Talent Pipeline & Recruitment: Source and engage veterans, transitioning service members, Guard/Reserve, and military spouses; conduct intake and structured screenings; translate military experience into civilian-friendly profiles.- Career Coaching & Transition Support: Provide 1:1 and small-group coaching on resumes, interviewing, networking, and workplace expectations; help align skills to high-opportunity civilian career paths.- Employer & Role Matching: Partner with employers and the project manager to understand open roles and success profiles; match veterans to roles; prepare candidates for interviews and debrief after.- HR Operations & Process Improvement: Maintain accurate candidate records; track progress from first contact through placement and early tenure; improve and document repeatable processes.- Data, Reporting & Outcomes: Own and track metrics such as veterans engaged, screened, interviews, offers, and placements; monitor early retention and satisfaction; share insights to refine strategy.- Community & Relationship Building: Build trusted relationships with veteran-serving orgs, programs, colleges, and local leaders; represent the organization at events; act as a bridge between veterans and employers. Experience & Background:- 3–6+ years in HR, recruiting, talent acquisition, workforce development, or career services.- Direct exposure to the military or veteran community (prior service, Guard/Reserve, military spouse/partner, or substantial work with veteran-serving organizations). Skills & Competencies:- Proven ability to move candidates through a pipeline; strong interviewing and assessment skills; excellent communication translating “military” and “corporate”; organized and detail-oriented; comfortable with data and basic tools (Excel/Sheets, ATS/CRM).