Apply on Detroit Lions’s siteThe People Systems Specialist is responsible for the day-to-day administration, support, and optimization of the organization’s People Team technology ecosystem, anchored by the Ceridian Dayforce platform. This role supports core HRIS functionality along with connected systems including the Applicant Tracking System (ATS), engagement survey tools, recognition platforms, and performance management systems.
This position plays a key role in maintaining system integrity, improving processes, and supporting a high-performing sports organization. The People Systems Specialist partners closely with cross-functional stakeholders to enhance the employee experience, ensure accurate data, and help deliver efficient, scalable People processes.
This is a hands-on role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and enjoys working directly in systems to solve problems and improve operations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
People Systems Administration & Support
Administer and maintain Dayforce and other People Team systems (ATS, engagement, recognition, performance)
Configure and support workflows, forms, organizational structure and business processes in the HRIS
Serve as a primary point of contact for system questions, troubleshooting, and issue resolution
Manage user access, security roles, and permissions across systems
Assist with system updates, releases, testing, and new functionality
Data Management & Integrity
Maintain accurate and secure employee data across all People systems
Perform routine audits and resolve discrepancies between systems
Support data governance practices and ensure compliance with policies and regulations
Maintain documentation related to system processes and data standards
Reporting & Analytics
Build and maintain standard and ad hoc reports across People systems (recruiting, engagement, performance, etc.)
Support data requests from People Team and business stakeholders
Analyze trends and deliver actionable insights
Process Support & Optimization
Identify opportunities to streamline and improve People Team workflows through system enhancements
Support automation of manual processes across the employee lifecycle (recruiting, onboarding, payroll, engagement, performance)
Assist in documenting processes, procedures, and system configurations
Enhance employee experience through effective system use
Integrations & Technical Coordination
Support integrations between Dayforce and third-party systems (ATS, payroll, benefits, etc.)
Assist with troubleshooting data flow and integration issues in partnership with IT and vendors
Participate in testing and validation of system changes and integrations
Support onboarding of new entities or system expansions as needed
Cross-Functional Partnership
Partner with the People Team, Talent Acquisition, Payroll, IT, Finance, and other stakeholders
Gather requirements and support implementation of system improvements
Provide end-user training and guidance
Support People Team programs, including recruiting, engagement initiatives, and performance cycles
NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Advise team on report selection based on data needs
Collaborate with colleagues to resolve data and data source issues
Ensure high standards of data privacy, accuracy, and quality
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify areas for improvement and implement solutions that enhance efficiency and employee experience.
Acts as a technical expert across People systems, including APIs and integrations
Utilize automation tools when possible to streamline the experience of all people
Analyze workforce metrics and recommend improvements
Support design and implementation of systems for operational needs
Manage the workflow of people processes during the employee lifecycle
Must be motivated, reliable, and able to work independently or as part of a team
Maintain professionalism when communicating with internal and external contacts
Present findings using various analytical and visual tools
Demonstrates accuracy, efficiency, and ability to meet deadlines
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
The ability to gather and quickly analyze information skillfully and develop effective solutions
Will adjust work schedule to meet departmental demands
Will keep appropriate information confidential
Will accept other responsibilities and duties required by the supervisor consistent with the objectives and essential functions of this position. Such responsibilities shall be incorporated into the position description if they are ongoing.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience)
At least 3 years of HRIS or People systems experience
Hands-on experience with HCM systems (Dayforce strongly preferred)
Experience supporting multiple People systems (ATS, engagement, performance, or recognition tools)
Thorough knowledge of HR principles, best practices, and federal/local regulations
Experience on HR/People teams with providing and actioning on quantitative reporting and analytics
Experience turning data into a narrative with visualizations (e.g. charts, graphs, tables) and presenting to HR professionals and Leaders
Working knowledge of capacity planning and/or HR Operations
Technical Skills
Experience with system configuration, reporting, and user security
Expert in Excel; with ability and experience with reporting or visualization tools (e.g., Power BI) is a plus
Technical proficiency in SQL, XML and VBA strongly preferred
Familiarity with integrations (APIs, SFTP, or data interfaces) preferred
Experience with version control systems (like Git) a plus
Core Skills
Detail-oriented with the ability to organize, multitask, and prioritize within a fast-paced, dynamic environment
Analytical thinking and problem-solving ability
Effective communication and stakeholder support skills
Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment
Team-oriented mindset with a focus on service and continuous improvement
Experience developing client-oriented solutions, with an emphasis on creativity and diligence, displaying excellent communication skills and attention to detail
Strong work ethic, organization skills, the desire to learn, exchange knowledge and is not afraid to ask questions
Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills with the ability to communicate with employees at all levels
Be a thought partner for the People Team to provide insights and recommendations grounded in data and drive positive change by challenging the status quo
Ability to prioritize and work effectively in an environment with competing demands
Ability to maintain confidentiality related to sensitive company and employee information
Ambitious self-starter and creative problem solver
Embraces change with a positive attitude and feels comfortable with ambiguity and is resilient in change
Ability to collaborate and effectively communicate with all levels of the organization and external partners
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Operates with a high level of humility, thoughtfulness, and integrity
Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and holidays
May require work out of both the Ford Field Management Office and the Meijer Performance Center
A valid Driver’s License and good driving record
What Success Looks Like
People systems are reliable, accurate, and well-maintained
Data is consistent and audit-ready across platforms
Processes are efficient and continuously improving
Stakeholders receive timely support and useful reporting
Employees have a smooth, connected experience across People systems
This role is published by Detroit Lions on greenhouse. SwiftFit is not the employer and does not accept applications.