Human Resources Generalist

The Human Resources Generalist is a pivotal role responsible for supporting a broad range of HR functions. This position ensures smooth operations, compliance, and fosters a positive employee experience for all SSHCO employees, all while aligning with our organizational core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Communication, Accountability, and Respect. Reporting to the Director of Human Resources, this role holds significant responsibilities in HR administration, employee relations, training coordination, benefits administration, compliance, and supporting key HR processes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

HR Administration & Data Management:

• Manage and maintain accurate and confidential employee records (personnel files, HRIS data, benefits documentation, training records), ensuring data integrity within HRIS systems.
• Process employee lifecycle changes (e.g., promotions, transfers, status changes, leaves of absence, terminations) accurately in the HRIS and coordinate necessary updates. May assist the HR Coordinator with HRIS data entry validation for new hires as needed.
• Generate various HR reports from the HRIS for analysis and decision-making, including, but not limited to, headcount, turnover, compliance reporting (e.g., EEO-1), and training completion.

Employee Experience & Relations:

• Serve as a trusted point of contact for employees regarding HR policies, procedures, benefits, and general inquiries, fostering a supportive and respectful environment consistent with organizational values.
• Support managers and employees in navigating routine employee relations issues, providing guidance on policy interpretation and conflict resolution basics, and escalating complex issues promptly.
• Manage the offboarding process for departing employees, including coordinating final paperwork, systems deactivation, and conducting exit interviews.
• Contribute actively to employee engagement initiatives, assisting with survey administration, analyzing feedback, and coordinating employee events or recognition programs.
• Administers and interprets company policies and procedures, ensuring clear communication and fair application.

Performance Management:

• Assist in administering performance management processes, including tracking review completion and maintaining associated documentation.

Recruitment & Onboarding:

• Manages the full recruitment lifecycle, including sourcing, interviewing, and selecting qualified candidates for various roles.
• Develops and updates job descriptions in collaboration with leadership.
• Facilitates and collaborates with the Manager of Training and Workforce Development on new hire orientation and ensures a smooth and welcoming onboarding experience.

Training Coordination & Administration:

• Collaborate closely with the Manager of Training and Workforce Development on all training efforts, including identifying needs, developing content, and supporting initiatives that foster employee growth and skill enhancement.
• Assist in the rollout process for all HR-related training initiatives, ensuring timely and effective delivery.
• Utilize the Learning Management System (LMS) to assign required compliance and other HR related training modules to individual employees or specific employee groups.
• Monitor and track completion of all assigned training, maintaining accurate records, and assisting with generating reports and follow-up communications, particularly for mandatory compliance training. 
• Assist in communicating available training opportunities, resources, and mandatory training requirements to employees across the organization.
• Support the collection and processing of feedback on training effectiveness to help refine future programs.

Benefits Administration:

• Administers and communicates employee benefit programs (health, retirement, leave policies), and supports open enrollment processes.
• Assists employees with benefits enrollment and changes, serving as a knowledgeable point of contact for benefit inquiries and issue resolution.
• Liaises with PEO and benefit brokers to resolve day to day concerns. • Ensures compliance with ACA and other benefits-related regulations.

Compliance & Policy:

• Supports the implementation, communication, and consistent application of HR policies and procedures.
• Ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations (e.g., FMLA, ADA, FLSA, EEO).
• Stays current on HR trends and legislation, recommending policy and procedural changes as needed.
• Assists in developing and updating HR policies and employee handbooks. Worker's Compensation & Leave Management:
• Manages the worker’s compensation claims process from initial reporting to resolution. • Administers various leave of absence programs (e.g., FMLA, personal leave) in compliance with company policy and legal requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum of a High School Diploma or equivalent required. A Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum 3-5 years of progressive Human Resources experience, with at least 2 years in a Generalist role, is strongly preferred. Experience in a nonprofit environment is a definite plus.
• PHR, SHRM-CP, or similar HR certification is a plus
• Strong knowledge of HR principles and employment law is essential, including a solid understanding of Federal, Illinois, Cook County, and Chicago employment laws and regulations. • Demonstrated experience in recruitment, employee relations, benefits administration, and/or HR policy implementation.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal), demonstrating the ability to interact effectively, empathetically, and respectfully with individuals at all levels.
• Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with integrity and utmost discretion.
• Strong organizational skills, exceptional attention to detail, and the proven ability to manage multiple priorities effectively in a dynamic environment.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively and effectively within a team and across departments.
• Genuine commitment to SSHCO's mission, vision, and values. Technical Proficiency
• Proficiency with HRIS systems (Paychex Flex strongly preferred), including LMS/training assignment modules.
• High proficiency in Microsoft 365 Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint, Outlook).
• Experience with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) such as MyStaffingPro preferred.