Human Resources Generalist

Human Resources Generalist

New York, NY

Full Time • Salary ($90k - $110k)

Position Title: Human Resources Generalist Department: Human Resources Reports To: Owner / Director of Operations / General Manager

Who Are We:

A new standard in upscale Mediterranean dining is located on Fifth Avenue. We aren't just another restaurant; we are an invitation to a truly immersive escape, bringing the vibrant flavors and celebrated hospitality of the sun-drenched Greek Isles directly to the heart of New York City. The restaurant is meticulously designed to offer a refined and expansive multi-level dining experience. Every element, from the sophisticated decor to the carefully curated ambiance, will transport you to a world where classic elegance meets authentic Aegean charm. It's a space crafted not just for dining, but for creating unforgettable moments.

Position Summary

The Human Resources Generalist is responsible for managing the day-to-day HR functions for a fast-paced restaurant operation. This role supports the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, compliance, payroll coordination, benefits administration, performance management, and training. The ideal candidate must have prior Human Resources experience within the restaurant or hospitality industry and understand the unique challenges of managing a diverse hourly workforce.

Key Responsibilities

Recruitment & Staffing

• Recruit, interview, and onboard restaurant employees, including managers, supervisors, and hourly team members.
• Coordinate new hire paperwork, background checks, and orientation.
• Partner with management to ensure staffing levels meet operational needs.
• Develop and maintain relationships with recruiting sources and job boards.

Employee Relations

• Serve as the primary HR contact for employees and management.
• Address employee concerns, investigate workplace issues, and recommend appropriate resolutions.
• Foster a positive workplace culture focused on employee engagement and retention.
• Coach managers on employee performance, discipline, and conflict resolution.

Compliance

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws.
• Maintain accurate personnel records and HR documentation.
• Administer I-9 verification, E-Verify (if applicable), and employment eligibility requirements.
• Assist with wage and hour compliance, scheduling policies, and labor law postings.
• Maintain confidentiality of employee information.

Payroll & Benefits Support

• Coordinate payroll processing by reviewing time records and personnel changes.
• Administer employee benefits and respond to employee questions.
• Manage leave requests, workers' compensation claims, unemployment claims, and accommodations.
• Ensure accurate HRIS and payroll data.

Performance Management & Training

• Coordinate employee evaluations and performance improvement plans.
• Support leadership in coaching and employee development.
• Organize and facilitate new hire orientation and ongoing training.
• Assist with succession planning and career development initiatives.

Policy Administration

• Develop, implement, and enforce company policies and procedures.
• Update employee handbooks and HR documentation as needed.
• Ensure consistent application of company policies across all restaurant locations.

Broad HR Support

• Provide comprehensive HR support to restaurant management and executive leadership.
• Analyze workforce trends, turnover, and staffing metrics to identify improvement opportunities.
• Assist with special HR projects, organizational initiatives, and process improvements.
• Support employee recognition and engagement programs.
• Participate in audits, compliance reviews, and organizational planning.
• Perform other HR-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• 3–5+ years of Human Resources experience in the restaurant, hospitality, or food service industry.
• Strong knowledge of employment laws, wage and hour regulations, and HR best practices.
• Experience supporting hourly, salaried, and multi-location workforces.
• Experience with recruiting high-volume hourly staff.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and HRIS/payroll systems.

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
• Experience with restaurant scheduling and payroll platforms.

Core Competencies

• Employee Relations
• Recruiting & Talent Acquisition
• Employment Law Compliance
• Payroll & Benefits Administration
• Performance Management
• Training & Development
• Conflict Resolution
• Confidentiality & Professionalism
• Organization & Time Management
• Customer Service Orientation
• Team Collaboration

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move throughout restaurant and office environments.
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds.

What Success Looks Like

• Maintains full staffing levels through effective recruiting.
• Builds positive relationships with employees and managers.
• Ensures HR compliance while reducing organizational risk.
• Supports a productive, engaged, and high-performing restaurant workforce.
• Delivers responsive, professional HR support that contributes to operational excellence.

Salary Range 90k-110k

Compensation: Salary ($90,000.00 - $110,000.00)

Benefits & Perks: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance

Required Skills

• Strong Communication Skills
• Interpersonal Skills
• Problem Solving Skills
• Analytical Skills
• Attention to Detail
• Time Management Skills
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment
• Adaptability