HR Generalist

Job Title: HR Generalist - Plant 

Location: Swedesboro, NJ 

Department: HR 

Reports To: Sr. HR Manager 

Salary Type: Exempt 

Salary Range: 70-75K 

Position Summary: 
The HR Generalist (HRG) provides broad HR support to leaders and employees across the full employee lifecycle. This role combines hands-on HR operations with proactive partnership to frontline leaders, helping managers navigate people challenges, strengthen employee engagement, and ensure consistent application of HR policies and practices. 

Working within an insurgent, high-accountability culture, the HR Generalist acts as a trusted advisor to managers while ensuring smooth execution of HR programs including onboarding, payroll coordination, attendance management, benefits administration, and employee experience. 

The HR Generalist focuses on day-to-day HR delivery, manager support, and employee engagement, ensuring HR processes run effectively while helping leaders make sound people decisions. Key Responsibilities 

Key Responsibilities: 

HR Business Partnership 

• Partner with frontline leaders and supervisors to provide guidance on employee matters including performance management, attendance, engagement, and development. 
• Coach managers on effective communication, accountability, and consistent application of HR policies. 
• Serve as a resource for managers navigating day-to-day employee situations while escalating complex matters to the ER Specialist or HR Manager as needed. 
• Promote a positive workplace culture that reflects company values and supports team performance. 

HR Operations & Administration 

• Manage core HR processes including onboarding, offboarding, job changes, and employment documentation. 
• Ensure accurate and timely completion of employee lifecycle transactions. 
• Maintain employee records and partner with the HR Data Specialist to ensure HRIS data accuracy. 
• Oversee time and attendance processes including timesheet validation, absence tracking, and leave administration. 
• Administer benefits enrollment, updates, and employee communications. 

Payroll Coordination 

• Collect, validate, and process payroll inputs including new hires, terminations, pay changes, and leave deductions. 
• Partner with payroll to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing. 
• Assist employees with payroll-related inquiries and issue resolution. 

Employee Experience & Engagement 

• Serve as a trusted and approachable HR contact for employees. 
• Respond to employee questions related to HR policies, pay, benefits, and attendance. 
• Support engagement initiatives, recognition programs, and communication efforts that enhance the employee experience. 
• Identify themes in employee feedback and escalate trends to HR leadership. 

Policy, Compliance & Recordkeeping 

• Ensure HR processes comply with company policies and applicable employment laws. 
• Maintain accurate HR records and support internal audits as needed. 
• Partner with the ER Specialist and HR leadership to implement and communicate policy updates. 
• Promote fairness, consistency, and transparency in HR practices. 

Talent & Performance Support 

• Support recruiting activities including interview coordination, offer preparation, and onboarding. 
• Assist managers in navigating performance management processes and documentation. 
• Coordinate performance review cycles and help ensure timely completion. 
• Track training and development participation. 

HR Collaboration & Continuous Improvement 

• Partner with the HR Data Specialist to utilize HR data and insights to improve processes. 
• Support HR projects including process improvements, HRIS enhancements, and employee communication initiatives. 
• Identify opportunities to streamline HR workflows and improve service delivery. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field.  
• 3–5 years of experience in HR Generalist or operational HR role, preferably in manufacturing, warehouse, or frontline workforce environments.
  
• Working knowledge of local employment laws and payroll compliance requirements.
  
• Experience with HRIS and timekeeping systems – UKG preferred
  
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities. 
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with managers and employees at all levels. 

Core Competencies: 

• Ownership & Accountability - Takes responsibility for outcomes and follows through on commitments. Demonstrates a bias for action and problem resolution. 
• Practical Problem Solving - Approaches issues with curiosity and sound judgment. Identifies root causes and works collaboratively to implement solutions. 
• Manager Partnership - Builds trust with leaders by providing clear guidance and support on people matters while reinforcing company standards. 
• Employee Advocacy - Promotes a fair and respectful workplace while balancing employee needs with business priorities. 
• Operational Excellence - Executes HR processes accurately and efficiently while continuously seeking ways to improve systems and workflows. 
• Influence & Communication - Communicates clearly and confidently with employees and leaders, adapting approach to different audiences. 
• Adaptability in a Fast-Paced Environment - Thrives in an evolving environment where priorities shift and proactive problem solving is valued.