University Of Arkansas is Seeking 2 Strategic Talent Acquisition Specialist - Apply Before January 13, 2026

The University Of Arkansas is hiring for two full-time positions within the Employee Services and HR Operations department. The role is focused on "full-cycle recruitment," meaning you will manage the entire journey from identifying talent to getting them hired.

This Position Is Based in Fayetteville and reflects the evolving shift of higher-education HR teams toward data-driven, consultative talent acquisition models.

About the University of Arkansas

Founded in 1871, the University of Arkansas is a powerhouse in American education. It is classified by the Carnegie Foundation among the nation’s top 2% of universities for research activity.

Beyond its academic prestige, the campus is located in Fayetteville, a city consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S. due to its booming economy and high quality of life. Working here means joining a community that values "transformational opportunities" and fosters a welcoming, creative climate.

Based in Fayetteville, the University’s scenic campus blends collegiate tradition with a fast-growing innovation economy.

Position Overview: Strategic Talent Acquisition Specialist

What the Role Involves

This is a full-time Strategic Talent Acquisition Specialist role within the Employee Services and HR Operations department, designed for professionals who want to operate beyond transactional recruiting.

Unlike passive HR roles, this position requires you to be proactive—sourcing candidates, building pipelines, and acting as a consultant to hiring managers.

Key Responsibilities at a Glance

• Talent Sourcing: Actively find and engage candidates through social media and networking rather than just waiting for applicants.

• Strategic Planning: Partner with hiring managers to create recruitment plans based on market data.

• Data Analysis: Track key metrics like "time to fill" and "turnover" to improve hiring speed and quality.

• Employer Branding: Promote the University as an "Employer of Choice" to attract top talent.

• System Management: Execute recruitment transactions using Workday HCM.

Who This Role Is Designed For

Required Academic Qualifications

• Education: You must hold a Bachelor's degree (or formal equivalent) from an accredited institution.

Experience Expected

• Minimum: At least two years of talent acquisition or recruiting experience.

• Preferred: The University prefers candidates with four years of experience, particularly those who have worked in Higher Education or have experience with Workday HCM.

• Skills: You need strong project management skills and the ability to be a "trusted advisor" to leadership.

Why Strategic Talent Acquisition Matters in Higher Ed

In today's competitive job market, universities cannot simply post a job and hope for the best. They need Strategic Specialists who understand "Talent Pipelining"—building a reserve of great candidates before a job even opens.

This role is critical because it ensures the University attracts the researchers, staff, and administrators necessary to maintain its status as a top research institution.

Work Culture, Flexibility, and Staff Support

The University of Arkansas is known for a culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance.

• Supportive Environment: A workplace that encourages diversity, inclusion, and personal well-being.

• Location: Fayetteville offers a vibrant arts scene and a strong economy, making it an ideal place for long-term career growth.

• Stability: As a land-grant institution, the University offers a level of job security that is often hard to find in the private sector.

Salary Range, Benefits, and Employment Conditions

The financial package is one of the strongest selling points for this role.

• Salary: Commensurate with education and experience.

• Retirement: A choice of retirement programs with University contributions ranging from 5% to 10% of your salary.

• Tuition Waivers: Employees (and their families) receive tuition waivers—a massive financial benefit.

• Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, life, and disability insurance.

• Leave: 12 official holidays plus immediate leave accrual.

How the University of Arkansas’s Recruitment Process Works

Application Requirements

To apply, you must log in to the University of Arkansas System Career Site and upload:

1. Resume.

2. Cover Letter (Letter of Application).

3. List of Three Professional References: Including name, email, and business title.

4. (Optional) Proof of Veteran Status.

Note: A criminal background check and sex offender registry check are required for all applicants.

Important Dates and Deadlines

• Closing Date: January 13, 2026 (Make sure to apply before 12:01 a.m. CT).

• Time Left: Approximately 14 days remaining.

• Job Requisition ID: R0080485

Why This Role Meets Global HR Standards

This position aligns with modern, global HR standards by prioritizing data analytics and employer branding. It moves away from administrative paper-pushing and focuses on strategic relationship building. By using Workday HCM, the University ensures its team is using industry-standard technology, keeping your skills relevant and sharp.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY