HR Data Analyst (Contract)

CONTRACT HR OPERATIONS ANALYST I Chicago, IL | Hybrid (2 Days/Week Onsite) Contract - 2 Year Minimum (possbility to extend the contract or convert to full-time as well) Company Summary Our client is the highest-grossing law firm in the world, headquartered in Chicago with 23 offices globally and over 7,000 employees including 4,000+ attorneys. The firm is recognized as the industry leader in private equity, M&A, corporate transactions, litigation, and restructuring, consistently ranking #1 on the Am Law 200 and Global 200 lists. With a culture built on teamwork, excellence, and continuous growth, the firm provides an exceptional professional services environment for staff and attorneys alike. Position Summary The HR Operations Analyst I serves as a reporting specialist within the firm's HR Operations department, responsible for managing HR data, building and running queries, producing standard and ad-hoc reports, and conducting data audits across the firm's HCM platform. This role functions as a critical technical resource for the HR Information System, translating workforce data into actionable insights for HR leadership and business partners. The ideal candidate is a sharp, detail-oriented data professional with strong query-writing skills, advanced Excel proficiency, and the energy and adaptability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-performance legal environment. Key Responsibilities Reporting & Query Development • Design, build, and maintain standard and custom reports and queries within the HCM system (PeopleSoft-based) to support ongoing business needs • Write and execute queries using PS Query, SQR, SQL, or equivalent tools to extract and analyze HR data • Automate, generate, and distribute recurring HR reports for stakeholders including headcount, turnover, compensation, and organizational structure metrics • Produce headcount comparisons across multiple office locations and practice groups • Fulfill ad-hoc report and data requests from HR business partners, leadership, and cross-functional departments Data Integrity & Maintenance • Conduct regular data audits to ensure accuracy and integrity of employee information across HCM and related HR systems • Research and resolve reporting discrepancies and system problems to maintain consistency and reliability of HR data • Maintain master data values and perform ongoing operational and maintenance tasks within the HCM platform System Support & Optimization • Serve as a subject matter expert for the HCM system, providing end-user support and training to promote efficiency and adoption • Assist with implementation of system updates and new functionality, including gathering requirements and performing user acceptance testing (UAT) • Document system processes and procedures, create job aids and training materials for end-users Strategic Support & Process Improvement • Analyze HR data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for process improvement • Translate complex data into actionable insights and present findings to management clearly and concisely • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Payroll, Benefits, and IT to support system integrations and resolve data issues Required Qualifications • Minimum 3 years of experience in HR data reporting • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (mandatory) including pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, Power Query, and data validation • Demonstrated experience writing queries and building reports within an HCM or HRIS platform • Functional knowledge of HR processes, data structures, and disciplines • Strong attention to detail with proven data auditing and quality assurance skills • Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and analytical skills • Superior oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills • Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver results in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment • Self-motivated, organized, and able to multi-task effectively Preferred Qualifications • PeopleSoft HCM experience (PS Query, SQR) • SQL or equivalent query language proficiency • Experience in a law firm or professional services environment • Familiarity with HR reporting metrics including headcount, turnover, compensation analysis, and organizational structure • Experience with system implementation, UAT, and process documentation • Crystal Reports or similar enterprise reporting tool experience Work Environment & Engagement Details • Contract engagement with a 2-year minimum term • Strong potential for contract renewal and full-time conversion based on performance • Hybrid schedule: 2 days per week onsite in Chicago (Thursdays preferred but flexible) • Reports to the Associate Director of HR Operations • Collaborative, high-energy team culture within the HR Operations department