Human Resources Generalist

HR Generalist

Carolina Ascent FC & Charlotte Independence

Location: Charlotte, NC

Position Overview

Carolina Ascent FC and Charlotte Independence are seeking a hands-on, people-centered HR Generalist to support all aspects of Human Resources across both organizations. This is a newly created role , ideal for a flexible, self-directed HR professional who enjoys building structure, ensuring compliance, and contributing to a positive, team-oriented culture.

This position will serve as the primary day-to-day HR resource for a fast-paced, growing professional sports organization. The ideal candidate is comfortable operating with autonomy, adapting to seasonal workloads, and balancing compliance-driven work with employee engagement and culture-building initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Human Resources Administration & Compliance

• Manage full-cycle onboarding and offboarding for full-time, part-time, seasonal, and contract staff
• Administer new hire documentation, including:
• Form I-9 compliance and document retention
• Payroll and tax forms
• Benefits enrollment materials
• Maintain accurate, confidential personnel files and HR records
• Track and administer Paid Time Off (PTO) and employee status changes
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws
• Assist with employee relations matters, disciplinary documentation, and terminations in partnership with leadership
• Maintain and update employee handbook, policies, and procedures as needed

Benefits & Payroll Support

• Administer health and welfare benefits programs, including:
• New hire enrollment and life events
• Open enrollment coordination
• ACA tracking and reporting support
• Serve as liaison with benefits brokers and vendors
• Support payroll processing by ensuring accurate documentation and timely submissions
• Coordinate benefits eligibility tied to hours worked and seasonal employment patterns

Seasonal Workforce & Sports Operations Support

• Support high-volume onboarding and offboarding tied to competitive seasons (players, coaches, technical staff)
• Assist with employment documentation, insurance activation, and rehire processes
• Support compliance tracking related to training, certifications, and background checks as assigned
• Partner with leadership during peak periods (summer onboarding, end-of-season transitions)

Culture, Engagement & Employee Experience

• Lead and coordinate employee recognition efforts (birthdays, milestones, celebrations)
• Support team-building initiatives, staff events, and organizational celebrations
• Assist leadership with employee engagement ideas that align with team culture and values
• Help foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace environment
• Support internal communications related to HR programs and employee initiatives

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• 3+ years of progressive HR Generalist experience
• Strong working knowledge of employment law, I-9 compliance, and HR best practices
• High level of discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive matters
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
• Ability to work onsite and be present for employee needs and time-sensitive issues
• Comfortable working independently with minimal day-to-day supervision
• HR certification (SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, SPHR) preferred
• Experience in professional sports, athletics, entertainment, or a seasonal workforce environment preferred
• Experience working in a small, growing organization or start-up environment

Key Competencies

• Self-starter with strong initiative
• Adaptable and flexible in a changing environment
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Compliance-focused with a service-minded approach
• Collaborative team player who enjoys being part of the organization’s culture

Why Join Carolina Ascent FC & Charlotte Independence?

This is an opportunity to build and shape HR from the ground up within two growing professional soccer organizations. You’ll play a key role in supporting employees on and off the field, improving compliance, and helping create a workplace culture that reflects teamwork, professionalism, and passion for the game.