HR Specialist

NOTE: We are currently located in Chicago but relocating to Northbrook in the Spring 2026.

Bornquist, one of the premier Manufacturer’s Reps in the Chicagoland area, has built dominant brand name recognition for every product that it represents in the Commercial, Industrial, HVAC and Plumbing markets in Northern Illinois. We offer competitive pay, benefits, and a friendly work environment for all employees. We focus on professional development by providing the necessary training for all employees to remain up-to-date on all our manufacturers and current technologies.

We believe our employees and customers will recognize us as a leader in our industry and a valuable resource!

We invite you to apply to be a part of our winning team!

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer: disability / veteran.

Benefits:

Medical (HMO, HSA & PPO options), Dental, Vision, Generous Profit Sharing and 401k Program, Short Term & Long Term Disability, Employee Assistance Program, Employee Discounts through ADP LifeMart/LifeCare, Paid Time Off

Position summary:

The HR Specialist plays a vital role in managing the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, payroll and benefits administration, compliance, and HR data management. This position fosters a positive workplace culture, ensures compliance with labor laws and company policies, and supports organizational goals through effective HR strategies and programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage the full recruitment cycle: job postings, resume review, candidate screening, interviews, and onboarding.
• Collaborate with hiring managers to develop applicant criteria and ensure smooth recruitment processes.
• Oversee payroll and benefits administration; assist employees with benefits-related inquiries.
• Maintain and update employee records and the employee handbook.
• Conduct stay and exit interviews; arrange background checks, drug screenings, and motor vehicle report (MVR) checks for new hires.
• Administer employee benefits programs and support performance management processes.
• Address employee relations issues, mediate conflicts, and promote a positive workplace culture.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state labor laws and company policies.
• Coordinate training sessions and professional development programs.
• Prepare HR reports and analyze workforce data to inform decision-making.
• Participate in HR projects and initiatives to improve processes and employee experience.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by management.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• This job has no direct or indirect supervisory responsibilities.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in an HR-related role, preferably within wholesale trade or a related industry.
• Strong knowledge of HR principles, programs, practices, and employment laws.
• Professional HR certification (SHRM-CP, PHR, HRCI) preferred.
• Proficiency in HRIS, ADP payroll application, recruitment software, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to multitask efficiently in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.
• High level of confidentiality and professionalism.

Competencies:

• Diversity - Demonstrates knowledge of EEO policy, respects cultural differences, and promotes a harassment-free environment.
• Ethics - Treats people with respect, works with integrity, and upholds organizational values.
• Interpersonal Skills: Listens actively, maintains confidentiality, and resolves conflicts constructively.
• Judgment - Makes sound decisions and includes appropriate people in the decision-making process.
• Communication - Expresses ideas clearly and positively, both verbally and in writing; adapts style to audience needs.
• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves issues in a timely manner; develops alternative solutions.
• Professionalism - Reacts well under pressure, treats others with respect, and follows through on commitments.
• Teamwork: Supports team success, welcomes feedback, and contributes to a positive team spirit.
• Analytical and organizational skills - Interprets workforce data and manages multiple HR tasks.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Frequently required to stand, walk and sit.
• Frequently required to talk or hear.
• Frequently utilize visual acuity to read technical information, and/or use a keyboard.
• Occasionally required to lift or carry items up to 25 pounds.