Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Training
Generic

Leala Cochran

Penn Valley,USA

Summary

Experienced Human Resources Specialist with a proven ability to enhance operational efficiency and resolve complex issues. Skilled in establishing and nurturing strong connections with influential stakeholders, clients, and colleagues to drive organizational objectives. Equipped with comprehensive training and hands-on expertise, prepared to embrace fresh professional opportunities and contribute to the success of a forward-thinking company.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience

Work History

Human Resources Specialist, GS-0201-7/9/11

Department of the Air Force
07.2022 - Current

As an HR Specialist I performed the full range of personnel functions which included:

  • Utilizing automated systems (e.g. Defense Civilian Personnel Data System [DCPDS], USAStaffing, Business Objects (Intelligence), etc.) to perform recruitment actions, publish vacancy announcements, and process personnel actions such as inputting, correcting, and retrieving data, and initiating action documents
  • Utilizing DCPDS to create position builds, position hierarchy, and code promotions, cash awards, time off awards, reassignments and realignments
  • Collaborating with department managers to identify staffing needs and create strategic recruiting plans including recruitment, relocation, and retention incentive programs
  • Communicating grade distinctions to management with supporting criteria and justification
  • Providing guidance on merit system principles, prohibited personnel practices, and the development and use of valid selection criteria
  • Pre-screening resumes prior to sending to the Air Force Personnel Center for consideration
  • Reviewing applications for veterans' preference, qualifications, eligibilities, and other requirements
  • Applying pay-setting and compensation guidance to recruitment, relocation, and retention incentives
  • Developing and delivering briefings and correspondence to hiring managers to foster understanding and acceptance of findings and recommendations
  • Assisting with making determinations in the proper crediting of factor levels and allocation of grade levels to positions
  • Disseminating SF75 information when requested
  • Using E-Verify to verify work status of employee
  • Performing clerical assignments with no supervision
  • Facilitating smooth onboarding processes for new hires, leading to faster integration into the workplace culture
  • Fielding employee inquiries related to recruitment, employee recognition, pay, promotions, Family Medical Leave Act use, performance evaluations, leave policies and employee assistance

Unit Program Coordinator

Department Of The Air Force
07.2020 - 06.2022
  • Served as the resident subject matter expert for all mandated executive programs and functions
  • Monitored personnel action requests through various electronic platforms and tracked personnel and training documentation while providing status reports to management
  • Served as the squadron Weighted Airmen Performance System (WAPS) Monitor-ensured 100% compliance with eligibility and notifications
  • Provided timely customer service, routed messages and answered inquiries via telephone, e-mail and face-to-face
  • Served as a Government Purchase Card holder for the squadron ordering tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of supplies - Ensured compliance with Federal purchase regulations
  • Edited, routed, and tracked 400+ documents monthly in accordance with the Tongue and Quill to ensure the squadron and its member’s needs were met
  • Developed and maintained detailed electronic file systems and procedural processes to improve accuracy, efficiency and timeliness of taskers and documents
  • Managed the commander’s day to day calendar ensuring they are prepared for meetings with all levels leadership
  • Prepared and edited Memorandums for Records (MFRs) at the squadron level through 16th Air Force
  • Scheduled in person and virtual meetings keeping the line of communication open between the commander, squadron leadership and squadron members
  • Streamlined data management processes by creating organized filing systems for both digital records and physical paperwork
  • Served as a trusted liaison between various internal groups to facilitate cross-functional collaboration on shared initiatives or challenges requiring coordinated action plans
  • Managed confidential information with discretion in accordance with company policies to protect sensitive data assets from unauthorized access or disclosure.
  • Ensured timely completion of projects by effectively managing schedules, resources, and deadlines for multiple concurrent initiatives
  • Balanced competing priorities efficiently while ensuring deadlines were consistently met without compromising quality standards or project objectives
  • Increased compliance with Air Force policies by regularly reviewing documentation for accuracy and adherence to established guidelines

Substitute Teacher

York County School District
02.2017 - 07.2019
  • Reported to the designated individual upon arrival at the school
  • Reviewed with the designated school representative the lesson plans and schedules to be followed
  • Maintained the established routines and procedures of the school and classroom to which assigned
  • Taught the lesson plans outlined by the regular classroom teacher
  • Assumed responsibility for overseeing pupil behavior in class, during lunch and in other activity periods
  • Always maintained maximum supervision of assigned students
  • Reported, in writing, on the day's activities at the conclusion of each teaching day
  • Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
  • Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
  • Developed strong rapport with students through consistent encouragement and support, fostering a positive learning atmosphere conducive to academic growth.
  • Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.

Para-Educator

07.2017 - 06.2019
  • Performed assigned duties related to the instructional program(s) and the student learning process
  • Participated in staff development activities related to area of assignment
  • Substituted for the classroom teacher under the direction and guidance of the administrators and/or teachers
  • Monitored students under the direction/supervision of the administrators and/or teachers
  • Performed bus, cafeteria, hall, playground duty and other non-instructional assignments under the direction of the building administrators
  • Assisted the teacher in the maintenance of a safe, clean, and attractive classroom
  • Modeled non-discriminatory behavior and followed established safe work practices
  • Followed established YCSD policies and procedures
  • Performed other duties as assigned

Intern

University of Arizona Center for Educational Resources in Culture, Language, and Literacy (CERCLL)
08.2015 - 12.2015
  • Used instructional design/theory and online education tools to develop an online learning space in D2L for 5th semester, German language students

Teacher’s Aide

Saint Alban’s Preschool
08.2013 - 05.2015
  • Implemented instructional plans as guided by the Arizona Early Learning Standards

Human Resources Specialist

Arizona Aerospace Foundation (AAF) - Pima Air and Space Museum
01.2008 - 10.2008
  • Performed Human Resources (HR) functions for 75 employees at two separate museum sites
  • Daily responsibilities included completing all recruiting and hiring functions and updating open positions on the museum’s webpage, tracking employee benefits eligibility, writing job descriptions, enrolling employees in medical and dental plans and keeping detailed records of all significant interactions with museum employees
  • Updated the employee handbook and administered new employee orientation as needed
  • Advised AAF Director in all hiring, firing and employee relations issues, as well as forecasting departmental expenses for the fiscal year
  • Served as a mediator between managers and staff, providing guidance to resolve a variety of personnel issues
  • Developed and implemented management training programs which standardized performance, documentation, and discipline procedures-Reduced questions from management by 50%
  • Created survey to identify gaps in employee job proficiency-Located training opportunities for management and non-management positions
  • Developed a grievance resolution program and standardized disciplinary procedures-cut employee complaints by 50% within six months
  • Streamlined acquisition request procedures cutting hiring time down by 33%
  • Self-audited HR and employee records bringing the AAF up to legal compliance
  • Managed benefits administration for company-wide staff, ensuring timely processing and accurate recordkeeping.

Squadron Section Commander

355th Component Maintenance Squadron
07.2005 - 09.2006
  • Led eight support staff Airmen while serving as the command authority for administrative, morale, health, welfare, discipline and computer support programs for over 400 military and civilian personnel
  • Duties included serving as the squadron subject matter expert in all CSS and administrative functions such as exercising administrative and non-judicial authority, managing the Commander’s Support Staff (CSS) and Small Computers shop, writing a monthly squadron newsletter, squadron policy letters and counseling unit members on personal, disciplinary, financial and career matters
  • Tracked the training and professional military education of all squadron members
  • Handled sensitive personnel issues along with the commander and first sergeant
  • Was regularly tasked with gathering, analyzing and presenting information to squadron and group commanders while making recommendations about personnel and organizational issues
  • Prepared and performed formal and informal briefings to squadron members, staff and wing leadership
  • Directed the tracking & editing of 400 plus performance reports-led to #1 on time rate within the Maintenance Group
  • Team builder that centralized administrative actions during low manning-ensured 100% tasks met with 65% manning
  • Improved fitness test on time rate to 100%, improved fitness test pass rate by 75%
  • Thorough review of CSS functions earned highest rating of 'Outstanding' on pre-Unit Compliance Inspection
  • Worked closely with Civilian Personnel Office in the successful screening and selection of a new squadron secretary

Chief, Education & Training

Detachment 3 Air Combat Command Training Support Squadron
02.2004 - 06.2005
  • Almost 1.5 years’ experience as a team leader at the GS 09 Level
  • Led a team of three education and training professionals supporting the Operations Training Development of two airframes
  • Ensured implementation of Instructional System Design (ISD) principles by over 200 contractors
  • Developed initial, transition, requalification, instructor and continuation training lessons
  • Developed syllabi, computer-based training, instructor planning documents and student study guides
  • Analyzed completed student surveys and executed graduate evaluation programs for two weapon systems across 21 geographically separated flying squadrons worldwide
  • Oversaw detachment training requirements and ensured compliance with governing directives
  • Reviewed 141 lessons; identified and corrected outdated material producing educationally sound training products
  • Oversaw coursework development tracking database; monitored production of 123 lessons Ensured Flight Training Units needs were met
  • Key player in 14 lesson strategy meetings; assessed criterion objectives-ensured efficient coursework production
  • Skillfully filled in to manage commander’s support staff; identified and organized unit priorities
  • Audited/realigned 66 additional duties-adjusted workload across 18 det personnel-increased productivity
  • Oversaw det records management self-inspection program-100% accurate, reduced electronic files by 25%

Trainer and Recruiter

APAC Customer Service
05.2001 - 07.2002
  • Trained Customer Service and Sales representatives in brand new Call Center to take inbound calls for AT&T Cable and Telephone service
  • Recruited and interviewed potential employees to fill customer service, sales, administrative and managerial positions
  • Trained and performed new employee orientation for hundreds of new customer/sales service representatives within a six month build out
  • Met hiring and training deadlines for a successful opening

Human Resource Staffing Manager

Southwestern Bell Corporation
06.2000 - 03.2001
  • Contract position with Southwestern Bell Corporation
  • Tested, interviewed, and screened employee applicants for hourly positions with the Southwestern Bell Company
  • Traveled to Lubbock, Texas to handle testing and staffing functions for that location
  • Scheduled and administered tests for various hourly positions using onsite and outsourced materials
  • Maintained test validity and security while exceeding requisition fill time by 10%
  • Made candidate selections and monitored applicant pools for future job openings
  • Coordinated with Staffing Managers and Union representatives to ensure staffing requirements were met with qualified employees
  • Used HRIS to track applicants and place internal/external hires into correct pay grades
  • Consistently met Client due dates and ranked in the top 20% of managers who met staffing goals
  • Maintained 13.6% above office average for meting requisition suspense

Education

Master of Science - Educational Technology

University of Arizona South
Sierra Vista, AZ
12.2015

Master of Science - Human Resource Management

Troy University
Troy, AL - Remote
10.2005

Bachelor of Science - General Studies (Education)

University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
05.1997

Skills

  • USA Staffing Talent Acquisition System
  • Business Intelligence
  • HR Policies/Legal Compliance
  • Applicant Qualification
  • Strategic Planning & Recruitment Management
  • In-Person and Telephone Interviewing
  • Pre-Employment Screening
  • Background Checks
  • Onboarding and Orientation
  • Problem Resolution
  • Teamwork
  • Training and mentoring

Timeline

Human Resources Specialist, GS-0201-7/9/11

Department of the Air Force
07.2022 - Current

Unit Program Coordinator

Department Of The Air Force
07.2020 - 06.2022

Para-Educator

07.2017 - 06.2019

Substitute Teacher

York County School District
02.2017 - 07.2019

Intern

University of Arizona Center for Educational Resources in Culture, Language, and Literacy (CERCLL)
08.2015 - 12.2015

Teacher’s Aide

Saint Alban’s Preschool
08.2013 - 05.2015

Human Resources Specialist

Arizona Aerospace Foundation (AAF) - Pima Air and Space Museum
01.2008 - 10.2008

Squadron Section Commander

355th Component Maintenance Squadron
07.2005 - 09.2006

Chief, Education & Training

Detachment 3 Air Combat Command Training Support Squadron
02.2004 - 06.2005

Trainer and Recruiter

APAC Customer Service
05.2001 - 07.2002

Human Resource Staffing Manager

Southwestern Bell Corporation
06.2000 - 03.2001

Master of Science - Educational Technology

University of Arizona South

Master of Science - Human Resource Management

Troy University

Bachelor of Science - General Studies (Education)

University of Southern California

Training

  • Fundamentals of Suitability
  • Suitability Actions Procedures for Suitability Adjudicators (SAPSA)
  • Instructional System Design (ISD) Course, US Air Force
  • Classroom Instructor Course, US Air Force


Leala Cochran