Human Resources Generalist

Newrest is seeking an experienced, hands-on Human Resources Generalist to help launch an exciting inflight catering operations in San Diego near the airport. This is a unique opportunity for an HR professional who is hungry to grow in their HR career and who thrives in fast-paced, start-up environments and wants to play a key role in building a successful operation from day one. If you're looking for a traditional office HR role, this is not it. We're looking for someone who enjoys being on the production floor, solving problems in real time, building processes and policies from scratch, building teams, and partnering with operations to make things happen. What You'll Do As the HR Generalist, you will serve as the primary HR leader for a growing operation of approximately 150 employees. You will partner closely with local leadership to establish HR processes, build a positive culture, and ensure compliance while supporting the daily needs of the operation. Responsibilities Include Lead all aspects of HR during the start-up and ongoing operation of two new inflight catering facilities. Recruit, hire, onboard, and retain hourly and salaried employees. Partner with operations leadership to support staffing, employee relations, engagement, and performance management. Coach and develop supervisors and managers on employee issues, policy interpretation, and leadership best practices. Conduct workplace investigations and resolve employee relations matters promptly and professionally. Ensure compliance with federal, California, Oregon, and local employment laws. Administer leaves of absence, accommodations, workers' compensation, unemployment claims, and other employee programs. Maintain HR records, reporting, and compliance documentation. Support payroll, benefits administration, and HRIS processes. Help establish HR policies, procedures, and best practices during the launch phase. Foster a culture focused on safety, accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence. This Is a Hands-on Position Success in this role requires someone who leads by example. You'll spend as much time on the production floor as you do behind a desk. Whether interviewing candidates, assisting with orientation, coaching supervisors, resolving employee issues, or supporting operational needs, you'll be actively involved in the day-to-day business. We're looking for someone who isn't afraid to roll up their sleeves, adapt quickly, and help build two successful operations from the ground up. Why Newrest? Newrest is one of the world's leading independent providers of inflight catering and hospitality services, operating in more than 50 countries with over 60,000 employees worldwide. We continue to expand across North America, providing exciting opportunities for professionals who enjoy growth, challenge, and making a meaningful impact. If you're passionate about building teams, supporting operations, and creating successful workplaces, we'd love to hear from you. What We're Looking For The ideal candidate is energetic, resilient, and comfortable working in an environment where priorities change quickly. You should enjoy building processes, solving problems, and working alongside operations leaders to achieve results. Qualifications Include Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field, or equivalent experience. Two or more years of progressive Human Resources experience, including HR generalist responsibilities. Extensive working knowledge of California employment law. Experience supporting manufacturing, logistics, food production, distribution, airport operations, or similarly fast-paced environments preferred. Strong experience with employee relations, investigations, recruiting, compliance, and performance management. Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills. Ability to make sound decisions in a fast-moving environment. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and HRIS systems. PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP certifications are preferred. Travel & Work Expectations Very minimal to no travel expected for the position. Expect extended workdays, weekend work, and a demanding schedule during start-up operations. Be highly visible on the production floor and available to support all shifts as business needs require. #J-18808-Ljbffr Newrest