Lead Human Resources Generalist

Lead Human Resources GeneralistThe Lead Human Resources Generalist serves as a senior HR professional and operational leader within the Human Resources department. This position partners closely with the Director of Human Resources to oversee employee relations, workplace investigations, compliance initiatives, benefits administration, leave management, policy development, and HR operational effectiveness.This role is ideal for a self-directed HR professional who takes ownership, exercises sound judgment, and proactively identifies solutions to complex employee and organizational challenges. The successful candidate serves as a trusted advisor to leaders and employees, provides guidance and mentorship to HR team members, and helps ensure HR programs, policies, and processes are administered consistently, effectively, and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.The Lead HR Generalist is expected to operate with a high degree of independence, influence outcomes without relying solely on formal authority, and help develop the overall capabilities, knowledge, and effectiveness of the HR team. Benefits include a robust 401(k) program with safe harbor and profit share (no match required), excellent health, dental, and vision insurance, flexible PTO, 8 paid holidays, and a collaborative and supportive culture.Responsibilities:Employee Relations & Workplace InvestigationsServe as the lead HR resource for employee relations matters, workplace conflict, disciplinary issues, policy interpretation, and performance concernsConduct and oversee workplace investigations involving employee complaints, policy violations, harassment, discrimination, and other sensitive workplace mattersProvide guidance and coaching to managers regarding employee relations issues, corrective action, performance management, and employment law complianceEvaluate investigation findings, assess organizational risk, and develop recommendations for resolutionSupport termination decisions, complex employee matters, and conflict resolution effortsIdentify employee relations trends and recommend proactive solutions that strengthen organizational effectiveness and reduce riskCompliance, Policy & Risk ManagementProvide oversight and direction for HR compliance programs, audits, and regulatory reporting activitiesResearch and interpret federal, state, and local employment laws and recommend policy, procedural, or operational changes as neededLead the review, development, implementation, and maintenance of HR policies, procedures, forms, and standard operating proceduresReview audit findings, identify compliance concerns, and coordinate corrective action effortsSupport external audits and ensure HR records, processes, and documentation remain audit-readyServe as a subject matter resource regarding HR compliance and employment law mattersBenefits, Leave & Employee ProgramsProvide oversight and guidance for benefits administration, leave management, and employee programs while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and company practicesServe as an escalation resource for complex benefits, leave, and accommodation mattersSupport 401(k) administration, annual audits, and vendor partnerships as neededAssess existing programs and recommend improvements that enhance employee experience, compliance, and operational efficiencyOperational HR LeadershipProvide day-to-day leadership, direction, and support to HR Generalists and HR SpecialistsAssist in prioritizing workload, identifying resource needs, and ensuring timely completion of HR responsibilitiesReview work for quality, accuracy, consistency, and complianceIdentify opportunities to improve HR processes, systems, workflows, and service deliveryPartner with the Director of Human Resources on department initiatives, projects, audits, reporting, and organizational prioritiesSupport annual review processes, compensation initiatives, and other strategic HR activitiesTeam DevelopmentMentor and develop HR team members through coaching, knowledge sharing, and ongoing guidanceAssist with onboarding and training of new HR personnelPromote accountability, continuous improvement, cross-training, and operational consistency within the HR teamFoster a culture of initiative, problem-solving, professional growth, and excellent customer serviceLead by example through professionalism, responsiveness, sound judgment, and a commitment to organizational successOtherPhysical demands include long hours sitting, using a computer, standing, pulling/pushing, walking, lifting, and climbingFlexible schedule required to accommodate varying availabilityLimited travel may be required as neededOther duties, activities, and responsibilities may vary and change as assignedEducation & Experience:Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field; equivalent work experience may substitute for educationMinimum of 4 years of progressively responsible Human Resources experience in employee relations, compliance, investigations, policy administration, benefits administration, or related HR disciplines required.Demonstrated experience researching and interpreting employment laws, regulations, and HR best practices is required.Strong written communication, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills required.Experience mentoring, coaching, or leading projects and initiatives required.