HR/EHS Specialist

We, at Merit Steel, a Leggett & Platt company, are searching for a HR/EHS Specialist to support our bedding operations. If you join our team, your work will ensure people across the world have a little more comfort in their lives. Responsibilities Manage full‑cycle talent acquisition and onboarding, including job postings, sourcing, interviews, offers, orientation, and required training. Serve as on‑site HR business partner to leaders, providing guidance on policy interpretation, documentation, performance management, employee relations, investigations, and corrective action. Administer leave, absence, and benefits programs (FMLA, ADA, STD/LTD, Workers’ Compensation, benefits enrollment/changes), supporting employees and resolving related issues. Lead offboarding activities, including exit interviews, documentation, and coordination of final pay and benefits. Maintain HR compliance and accurate recordkeeping (EEO, wage & hour, I‑9/E‑Verify, personnel files), supporting audits and reporting. Manage HRIS and timekeeping data; partner with payroll to ensure accurate processing, attendance tracking, and resolution of inquiries. Track and analyze HR metrics (turnover, absenteeism, staffing, training completion) and recommend actions to support operational goals and retention. Lead employee engagement initiatives, site communications, recognition, and events to reinforce a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Lead risk assessments, job hazard analyses (JHAs), lockout/tagout reviews, and routine safety audits to reduce workplace risk. Investigate incidents and near‑misses and perform root cause analysis, driving corrective and preventive actions through to closure. Develop, maintain, and test emergency preparedness and response plans; coordinate response activities as needed. Deliver safety training, toolbox talks, and site‑wide awareness campaigns to strengthen EHS culture. Lead safety committees and cross‑functional teams to implement EHS initiatives and drive engagement. Maintain written safety programs and OSHA record‑keeping and reporting, ensuring accurate, timely documentation and submissions. Manage waste disposal and evaluate waste streams for environmental compliance; conduct environmental audits, prepare compliance reports, and ensure adherence to environmental laws and regulations. Collaborate effectively with Corporate and Business Unit HR and EHS representatives. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications Strong working knowledge of human resources laws and regulations and environmental health & safety legislation and applicable federal, state, and local requirements. Strong decision‑making and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to prioritize effectively in a fast‑paced environment. Ability to influence and engage employees at all organizational levels, building partnership and accountability. Excellent written and verbal communication skills; comfortable presenting to frontline teams and leadership. Strong attention to detail and documentation accuracy. Demonstrated proactive mindset; anticipates risk, raises issues early, and drives preventive actions before problems occur. Experience in a manufacturing environment. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Management, Human Resources, Environmental Health & Safety, or a related field. Five years of human resources generalist experience, especially in a manufacturing environment. HR Certification preferred – PHR, SPHR. Nearest Major Market: Gary Nearest Secondary Market: Chicago Leggett & Platt Incorporated is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you need accessibility or assistance to apply for career opportunities through this site, please email us to ensure your inquiry is directed to a member of the Human Resources Staff. Equal Employment Opportunity/Veteran/Disability Employer #J-18808-Ljbffr Brio Energy