Human Resources Generalist

Reporting directly to the Vice President of Human Resources, this role administers and helps execute on core HR programs and services, such as employee relations, recruiting and hiring, performance management, training, and compliance. The position also provides guidance and support to managers and team members on HR policies, best practices, and workplace matters, ensuring a positive environment and full compliance with all employment laws.

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Support the mission and vision of Goodwill Northern Michigan.

2. Perform work in a safe manner by observing all Goodwill safety policies and procedures.

3. Interact with all Goodwill team members, clients, and customers in a professional manner.

4. Respect the diversity of others, including but not limited to, those with cultural, ethnic, and gender differences, individuals experiencing homelessness, and persons with visible and non-visible disabilities.

5. Advise and support managers on human resources policies, procedures, best practices, and employee-related matters, serving as the main point of contact for all inquiries and concerns.

6. Provide continuous guidance to managers regarding HR topics such as performance management, corrective and disciplinary actions, policy interpretation and application, employee relations, and compliance with employment regulations.

7. Manage employee relations matters—including complaints, grievances, and disciplinary actions—with fairness and respect.

8. Participate in disciplinary meetings, terminations, and investigations as required.

9. Address employee concerns and inquiries, facilitate conflict resolution, and foster a positive work environment.

10. Conduct thorough workplace investigations as necessary.

11. Provide comprehensive support throughout the recruitment and hiring process, including posting job opportunities, managing the hiring and pre-boarding workflows within the HCM system, and coordinating new employee orientation programs to ensure an effective onboarding experience.

12. Assist in recruitment by authorizing job postings, job offers and overseeing and facilitating the prompt pre-boarding and onboarding of new employees.

13. Conduct or arrange for background checks and other verifications of employee eligibility in compliance with all applicable state and federal regulations and company policy.

14. Create and deliver training for employees and managers.

15. Support the VP of HR with HR programs and projects, including HR software implementation, employee and workplace surveys, rewards and recognition programs, and culture-building activities.

16. Handle all employee accommodation and work restrictions, collaborating with managers and staff to arrange reasonable adjustments and accommodations in accordance with legal requirements and company policies.

17. Facilitate the interactive process to provide reasonable accommodation, ensure ADA compliance, and support a non-discriminatory work environment for employees with disabilities.

18. Prepare regular reports on HR metrics to support decision-making.

19. Assist with maintaining and updating the employee handbook and HR policies to ensure compliance with current laws and company practices and ensure that all updates and changes to HR policies and procedures are communicated in a timely manner.

20. Review and approve personnel action changes such as terminations, promotions and transfers.

21. Conduct/assist in exit interviews and utilize exit survey data to provide feedback and recommendations to managers and HR team on retention strategies, employee engagement, and performance improvement.

22. Improve efficiency and accuracy of HR processes and functions by continual process improvement.

23. Payroll back up support as needed.

24. Other duties as assigned by manager.

Education, Licenses, Certifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field
• Minimum 5 years of progressive HR experience.
• Strong knowledge of HR laws and regulations.
• Experience with HR software and systems.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships across all levels of an organization.
• Proven ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• PHR/SPHR certification is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities to interact effectively with employees, management, and external partners.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong knowledge of HCM and Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) for managing all aspects of employee data and HR processes.
• In-depth understanding of local, state, and federal employment laws to ensure compliance and handle legal issues.
• Skilled in managing employee relations, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive work environment.
• Ability to analyze HR metrics and data to inform decision-making and improve HR processes.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities to manage various HR functions efficiently.
• Sensitivity to cultural differences and the ability to promote diversity and inclusion within the workplace.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
• Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization’s facilities.