HR Generalist

The Company

Founded in 1946, HI-LEX is a leading supplier of window regulators, door modules, power lift gate systems, and mechanical control cables primarily serving the automotive industry, but also the power sports, marine, construction equipment, and medical device sectors. Headquartered in Takarazuka, Japan (near Osaka), and listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE), HI-LEX employs more than 12,000 associates across its global footprint. 

In the Americas region, HI-LEX has grown steadily in the region, and now has ten (10) manufacturing facilities across the the United States, Mexico, and Brazil. In the U.S., HI-LEX operates under three divisions: HI-LEX America in Battle Creek, Michigan; HI-LEX Controls in Hudson, Litchfield, and Hazel Park, Michigan; and Daedong HI-LEX of America in Cusseta, Alabama. The company’s automotive center is in Rochester Hills, Michigan which consists of Finance, Sales, Engineering, Testing, Program Management, Human Resources, Purchasing and IT.

Position Summary

This position will report to the local HR Manager at Litchfield, Michigan. The person will support HR functions and serve as a resource for employees regarding HR related policies & procedures in a positive environment at the plant. The position will oversee recruitment, on-boarding, payroll, employee engagement/relations, data maintenance, or other HR functions as assigned.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Performs recruiting and onboarding functions for new associates, including coordinating lacing, drug screening, running background checks, and conducting orientation.
• Administer the internal promotional program for hourly team members.
• Completes new hire evaluations through Paycom.
• Assists HR Manager in resolving associate issues and complaints by conducting investigations of employee relations issues to maintain a positive environment. 
• In conjunction with the HR Manager, plans and coordinates associate events.
• Completes I’9 reporting for new hires.
• Assists in processing unemployment claims.
• Assist with safety investigations or issues that arise.
• Maintains accurate data & files in HRIS & ERP systems (Paycom and PLEX).
• Performs customer service functions by answering employee requests and questions, and the lobby window.
• Ensures compliance with EEOC laws, and makes recommendations to senior management regarding compliance with those laws. Resolves associate complaints and manages legal issues.
• Recommends personnel policies and procedures.
• Assists with the Open Enrollment process and other associate benefit functions.
• Assists with daily attendance maintenance, tracking, and reporting, including FMLA absences in conjunction with 3^rd party companies. 
• Assists with creating and managing attendance write-ups and termination letters for hourly associates.
• Oversees payroll functions for hourly team members.
• Manages garnishments through 3^rd party companies, and manages child support garnishment & medical orders.
• Advises associates and other managers regarding personnel policies, procedures, and employment laws. 
• Promotes an associate relations environment that is consistent with long-term management objectives.
• Provides information to employees, coordinates, and updates the HRIS for leaves or absence programs including but not limited to FMLA, short-term disability, paid parental leave, and long-term disability. 
• Assists with maintaining accurate data in HRIS & ERP systems (Paycom and PLEX).
• Conduct audits of attendance, payroll, benefits, or other HR programs and recommend corrective actions as necessary.
• Continuously seeks ways to improve processes and reduce administrative burdens.
• Assists in coordinating strategic efforts to assist with overall improvement of HR functions and operations.
• Performs backup HR Manager and other duties as necessary or assigned

Education 

4-year degree in Human Resources, Business or a related field, or equivalent experience, preferred

Functional Experience

• 2-4 years experience in a human resources function preferred.
• Knowledge of OSHA / MIOSHA laws and regulations relating to worker compensation.
• Knowledge of employment law, ADA, FMLA, and related government programs necessary.
• Basic understanding of accounting is helpful.

Industry Experience

• 2-4 years’ of office manufacturing experience, automotive industry preferred

Core Competencies

• FMLA
• ADA
• HRIS
• HR policies and procedures

Required Skills

• Ability to multi-task in an office environment
• Strong communication skills
• Strong written and verbal skills
• Strong problem-solving, conflict resolution,  and troubleshooting skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and active listening skills as they relate to employee relations
• Strong time management and organizational skills
• Background in Microsoft Office, Google Drive, and Gmail.
• Ability to quickly learn computer programs 

Other Requirements

• Office environment with noise from computer peripherals such as printers and plotters.
• Sometimes works around factory equipment.
• Sometimes lifts, carries or moves objects - up to 25 pounds.