HR Generalist

About AO Swag AO Swag is the leading provider of on-demand online store solutions for corporations, colleges, and organizations. We specialize in custom apparel and promotional merchandise, combining fast production, seamless technology, and strategic merchandising. As we scale, our people remain our most important differentiator. We are seeking an HR Generalist to help us recruit, support, and grow our team while shaping the future of our culture. About the Role This is a hands-on, full-spectrum HR role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment. The HR Generalist will lead initiatives across recruiting, onboarding, engagement, compliance, payroll, and HR operations. This role will serve as a trusted partner to leadership, a supportive resource for employees, and a key driver of culture-building as AO Swag grows toward ambitious goals. The role will also act as the company's main liaison with our Professional Employer Organization (PEO) for payroll, benefits, and compliance. Key Responsibilities Recruitment & Onboarding Manage full-cycle recruitment: job postings, sourcing, screening, interviews, and offers. Partner with managers to identify staffing needs and recommend compensation levels. Coordinate and conduct onboarding, including orientation, system setup, and role-based training. Support conversion of temporary employees to full-time as appropriate. Employee Relations Serve as a trusted, confidential resource for employee questions and concerns. Support managers with coaching, disciplinary actions, and investigations into workplace issues. Facilitate conflict resolution and promote a positive, respectful environment. Conduct exit interviews and report retention insights to leadership. Performance Management & Development Support implementation of performance management processes, including goal-setting, feedback, and evaluations. Identify and coordinate employee training, workshops, and development opportunities. Track completion of mandatory trainings via the PEO system and measure program effectiveness. Culture & Engagement Help build an inclusive, high-performance culture aligned with AO Swag values. Plan employee engagement events, recognition programs, and quarterly all-staff meetings. Use culture as a lever for accountability, performance, and retention. Payroll, Benefits & HR Operations Partner with our PEO to process payroll, timecards, PTO, bonuses, and attendance audits. Review payroll reports for accuracy and support accounting with headcount and labor cost data. Administer benefits, including enrollments, renewals, and inquiries. Manage FMLA, LOA, and workers’ compensation claims. Maintain accurate HR records and ensure compliance with HRIS, ATS, and payroll systems. Policy & Compliance Maintain and update HR policies in accordance with federal and state laws. Advise leadership on evolving compliance requirements and HR best practices. Coordinate OSHA compliance, safety training, and reporting. Manage unemployment claims and ensure appropriate documentation for all HR actions. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (MBA a plus). 2–3 years of HR generalist or business partner experience, ideally in a fast-paced, growth environment. Strong knowledge of HR practices, employment law, and compliance. Experience with payroll and benefits administration (PEO experience preferred). Proven success in recruiting, onboarding, employee relations, and culture-building. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills. High emotional intelligence, discretion, and people-first mindset. Familiarity with HRIS, ATS, and payroll platforms. What We Offer Competitive salary and benefits package (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, 401k, PTO). Opportunities for professional growth and advancement. A collaborative, people-first culture where your impact is visible. A chance to shape both the HR function and company culture during a critical growth stage. Equal Opportunity & Compliance Statement AO Swag is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws. Employment is contingent upon meeting job-related requirements, including background screening and authorization to work in the United States. #J-18808-Ljbffr AO Swag