HR Generalist

This position is responsible for professional-level HR duties and works closely with the HR team to support designated geographic regions.  This position carries out responsibilities by assisting in the following functional areas: benefits administration, employee relations, training, onboarding, policy implementation, recruitment/employment, and employment law compliance.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

Recruitment and Onboarding:

• Assist in the onboarding process to ensure new hires are integrated smoothly into the company, including verification of authorization of employment, background checks, and motor vehicle reports for prospective employees. 
• Assist with the full-cycle recruitment process, including job postings, screening, interviewing, hiring, and tracking the status of candidates and responding with follow-up letters and correspondence through the recruitment life cycle. 
• Assist in overseeing new hire orientations and onboarding processes to ensure a smooth transition for new employees.

Employee Relations:

• Serve as a point of contact for employee inquiries and issues, addressing concerns in a timely and effective manner.
• Assists in the investigation and resolution of employee relations issues, ensuring compliance with company policies and employment laws.
• Promote a positive work environment through conflict resolution and employee engagement initiatives.
• Advises supervisors, managers, and staff of established policies and procedures relating to employee relations issues and supports staff in handling employee relations issues, including counseling with employees. 
• Answers frequently asked questions from applicants and employees relative to standard policies, benefits, hiring processes, etc. 
• Serves as the company representative at meetings, hearings, company events, and any other company-related activities by attending.  

Benefits Administration:

• Assist in the administration of employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits.
• Provide guidance and support to employees regarding benefit options, enrollment processes, and claims resolution.
• Assist in the facilitation and coordination of benefits orientations and assist with open enrollment sessions, to include notifying employees and coordinating meetings with insurance and retirement plan representatives. 
• Assists in administering Family and Medical Leave and other leave programs.  Distributes forms, determines eligibility, and ensures compliance with federal regulations, including tracking leave periods and collecting unpaid insurance premiums.

Performance Management:

• Assist in the development and implementation of performance appraisal systems.
• Provide support to managers in conducting performance reviews and addressing performance issues at the hourly and salary level. 
• Work with employees and managers to create individual development plans and career growth opportunities.

Compliance and Policy Implementation:

• Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
• Implement and enforce company policies and procedures.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date employee records and HR documentation.
• Communicates and provides guidance to employees on existing policies and procedures and changes to them. 
• Stays abreast of developments in regulatory compliance, personnel management, and legal requirements.

HR Data Management:

• Utilize HRIS systems to manage employee data and generate reports.
• Analyze HR metrics, KPIs,  and data to identify trends and make data-driven recommendations.
• Assist in processing employee separations in the human resource management system, process unemployment claims, and represent the company at hearings.
• Performs periodic audits of HR files and records to ensure that all required documents are collected, entered, and filed appropriately.
• Ensure data accuracy, integrity, and confidentiality in all HR systems and processes.
• Performs special or miscellaneous projects as assigned. 
• Advise senior-level HR supervisor of activities and any potential issues as they arise.  
• Regular attendance in the office is required according to company policy to ensure operations are maintained at a normal efficiency level.
• Performs other related duties as assigned. 

• Solid knowledge and working understanding of HR functions, practices, principles, procedures, benefit programs, and recruitment and onboarding.
• Strong knowledge of HR practices, employment laws, labor legislation, and regulations (ADA, COBRA, FMLA, EEO, FLSA, etc).
• Excellent interpersonal skills: must be able to maintain a positive demeanor, able to manage sensitive and confidential situations with integrity, discretion, professionalism, and diplomacy.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite programs ( Excel, Word, Outlook) or related software.
• Proficient with human resource information systems (HRIS), Learning Management Systems (LMS), Benefits Systems, and similar computer applications.
• Facilitation and training experience (the ability to speak in front of a group of people) is highly desired.
• Great attention to detail & excellent organizational skills.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Able to work independently and in a team environment.
• Able to function in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills (English/Spanish).
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) required.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration (or a related field), or a combination of education and equivalent related experience.
• Minimum 5-7 years’ related experience in a human resources role required.
• Familiar with database systems and common HR applications.
• PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP credentials are highly preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
• May stoop, kneel, or bend on an occasional basis.
• May reach above shoulder heights and below the waist on a frequent basis.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.