HR Generalist

Description Ready for a challenging, fast‑paced career where you are literally laying the groundwork that builds communities. Knife River is a construction materials & contracting company that believes in building things that last, and you can be a big part of our future. Knife River is a PEOPLE-First company. Our team members are the key to our success, and we are committed to giving them the tools, training, and time to do their jobs productively and go home safely each day. We believe in building strong teams that, in turn, build strong communities. We are committed to making a difference. Join our growing team today! As a Human Resources (HR) Generalist for Knife River’s California operations, you will be responsible for leading or assisting a wide variety of HR activities including benefits, staffing, employee relations, policies and compensation. You will also be responsible for maintaining confidential and sensitive information and working directly with employees on a daily basis. You will champion a People-First culture, supporting HR programs that drive engagement, operational excellence, and business success. Compensation Pay or shift range: $75,000 USD to $85,000 USD. The estimated range is the budgeted amount for this position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications and other job‑related reasons. Wage: $75,000 - $85,000/year plus bonus and competitive benefits. Qualifications Associate degree may be considered with documentation of work experience in an HR field. 5 years of experience in an HR related field. Knowledge of California HR best practices, employment law, and compliance regulations. Exercise initiative, judgement and confidence as well as exhibit a strong desire to acquire knowledge of company practices, policies and procedures. Experience in a unionized construction materials supply industry environment with a Collective Bargaining Agreement. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail and the ability to prioritize and complete projects on schedule. Ability to contribute to a team‑oriented work environment. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage at all levels. Demonstrated commitment to maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information responsibly and professionally. Strong working knowledge of MS Office Suite products and proficient math skills. Preferred Requirements Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration or related field or equivalent experience. 5-8 years’ experience in Human Resources. Professional HR certification(s) (e.g. SHRM-CP, PHR, SHRM-SCP, SPHR). Professional in Human Resources – California accreditation (PHRca). Experience with ERP systems (e.g., JD Edwards), HRIS (e.g., UKG), or other HR systems. Experience working with SmartSheets. Experience implementing employee engagement strategies, training and development programs, and employee surveys. Bilingual in English and Spanish, with the ability to effectively communicate with a diverse workforce and ensure compliance with employment regulations. Duties and/or Responsibilities Drive a People-First Culture—Champion Knife River’s Core Values (People, Safety, Quality, and Environment), fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes employee engagement, well‑being, and performance. General Support – Provide general support in the human resources department including, but not limited to, maintaining employee files, coordinating the annual review process, employee survey, assisting with job descriptions and salary administration. HR Compliance & Labor Relations Excellence – Assist with compliance, reporting (i.e. VETS 100, EEO-1, etc.) and labor relations, maintain adherence to federal, state, and local employment laws while mitigating risk and protecting company interests. Talent Acquisition – Responsible for job posting/recruitment, interviewing process, pre‑employment screenings, new employee orientation, exit interviews and supporting the employee life cycle. Champion Safety and Compliance – Lead by example in promoting a safety-first culture, actively driving and supporting corporate and local safety initiatives while ensuring all HR programs align with safety objectives. Provide HR Guidance – Assist employees and supervisors with basic policy and benefit questions, sensitive HR matters, ensuring legal compliance and ethical decision making consistent with company philosophy and standards. Foster Culture & Organizational Development – Assess company culture, identify opportunities for improvement, and support initiatives to reinforce values, increase engagement, and support building a high-performing organization that supports business success. Support Mergers, Acquisitions, & Integration – Assist with integration efforts for acquisitions and business expansions. Support HR Best Practices & Performance Metrics – Assist in driving HR operational excellence by supporting process improvements and implementing industry best practices to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Perform Additional Duties as Assigned – Take on special projects and support initiatives that enhance the company’s people strategy and organizational effectiveness. How To Apply Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law. Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background checks. If unable to apply online, please mail completed application to: Knife River Corporation Box 6099 Stockton, CA 95206 Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr