Human Resources Generalist

Job Type: Exempt, full time

Purpose:  The Human Resources Generalist advises management and employees on human resources issues and manages all human resources functions. This store leadership position oversees recruitment and hiring practices, payroll and benefits administration, helps to create effective systems and policies, and enforces Co-op expectations. 

Prerequisites: Minimum three years Human Resources experience. Must be knowledgeable of job requirements for all department staff. 

Employee Benefits: Paid Time Off & Sick Accruals, medica/dental/vision insurance options, short term disability insurance, life insurance, employee assistance program, 20% store discount, two paid holidays (Christmas & Thanksgiving) 401k retirement options.

Duties & Responsibilities:  

• Exhibits excellent service for customers and staff at all times.  
• Works with the General Manager and Department Managers to identify problems and recommend solutions pertaining to personnel.  
• Is available to address staff concerns and to liaise between staff and General Manager when appropriate.  
• Prepares and maintains personnel policy manuals with assistance from management. Recommends and implements changes. Distributes to staff and tracks acknowledgement.  
• Oversees time keeping and HRIS software.  
• Creates reports as needed for department managers.  
• Processes payroll for all staff according to procedures.  
• Keeps all employee information including contact information, benefits, wage changes, emergency contacts, checklists, training, etc. up to date in Paylocity software.  
• Coordinates the organization’s recruitment and selection process, works with Managers to screen and interview candidates; conducts reference checks; extends job offers.
• Conducts new employee orientation, supervisor, safety, and theft prevention training.
• Administers and manages all benefit enrollments and changes.  
• Coordinates annual open enrollment. 
• Conducts exit interviews and completes all exit paperwork.  
• Provides support to managers to ensure timely, consistent, and fair performance evaluations.  
• Completes reports as required for benefits, wages, workers compensation, COBRA, etc.  Develops and revises job descriptions and performance evaluation forms with assistance of management.  
• Updates and maintains Safety manuals with assistance of management.  
• Coordinates safety training and oversees maintenance of safety stations and first aid kits. Familiar with OSHA/MIOSHA regulations.
• Stays up to date on, and ensures compliance with, all relevant labor laws.  
• Oversees professional development opportunities.  
• Has the ability to attend professional development and events, some travel required.
• Performs other tasks as assigned by the General Manager. 

Management Team Responsibilities:  

• Attends and participates in management team meetings and exchanges information between the General Manager, Operations Manager, and the management team to department staff.  
• Represents the team as one voice and honors decisions after they are made.  
• Attends storewide meetings as needed.  
• Demonstrates a willingness and ability to cooperate and communicate with co-workers, and/or outside contacts in a timely and appropriate manner.  
• Adheres to the Leadership Team Agreement.  
• Assists in other departments, if needed.  
• Contributes to the Currant and Circumspice newsletters when requested. 

 Required Qualifications: 

• High school diploma or equivalent. 
• Minimum three years Human Resources experience  
• Excellent customer service skills  
• Communication skills; good listener; gives clear instructions 
• Ability to project a friendly, outgoing personality.  An energetic, positive and charismatic personality is required  
• Familiarity with HRIS/Paylocity/Payroll systems  
• Experience in personnel administration  
• Experience administering payroll and benefits  
• Familiarity with state and federal labor laws 
• Available to work a minimum of 40 hours  

Desired Qualifications:

• Demonstrated objectivity, neutrality, calmness under pressure  
• Ability to plan, develop, and implement comprehensive and efficient systems  
• Experience with hiring, training, evaluating, and directing staff  
• Ability to read and interpret financial statements, and work within a budget  
• Experience supervising and managing staff in a food service or retail setting is preferred  
• Ability to motivate self and staff  
• Demonstrated ability to meet goals and follow through on commitments  
• Excellent sense of organization, attention to detail, and able to handle multiple demands  
• Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Google Workspace  
• Ability to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the business; some early mornings, evenings, holiday and weekend shifts required  
• Familiarity with natural and organic foods, common allergens, and specialty diets preferred  
• Familiarity with Cooperative Principles preferred  
• Basic understanding of retail concepts and retail industry  
• Regular, predictable attendance 

Physical Requirements:  

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.  
• Ability to sit or stand for long periods, up to 8 hours and climb stairs.  
• Ability to adapt to changes in temperature due to frequently opening doors, coolers, and freezers.  
• Ability to write notes, emails, and items of a similar nature on a computer, touch screen, or by hand.  
• Ability to tolerate exposure to noise from machinery and the general environment.  
• Ability to use fine motor skills and read small print.