Human Resources Generalist

Summary

The Human Resources Generalist is responsible for supporting day-to-day human resources operations and serving as a resource for employees and leaders across Columbia Industries. This role supports employee relations, onboarding, retention initiatives, benefits assistance, policy administration, and general HR functions while also assisting with recruiting and staffing efforts as needed.

The position plays an important role in helping maintain a positive, professional, and team-oriented workplace culture. The ideal candidate is highly organized, approachable, proactive, dependable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

This role requires someone who is willing to engage directly with employees and leaders, solve problems professionally, and actively contribute to the success of the Columbia family.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary HR contact for employee questions, concerns, and day-to-day support
• Assist with employee relations matters including conflict resolution, attendance concerns, communication issues, and workplace professionalism
• Support employee retention and engagement initiatives
• Assist with onboarding, offboarding, and employee documentation processes
• Respond to employee questions regarding benefits, policies, payroll-related matters, and HR procedures
• Maintain employee files and HR records
• Assist with policy communication and HR administrative tasks
• Support recruiting activities for manufacturing, skilled labor, engineering, and professional positions as needed
• Coordinate job postings, candidate communication, interview scheduling, and onboarding activities
• Support a positive workplace culture aligned with company values
• Perform additional HR and administrative duties as needed

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred in Human Resources, Business, Management, or related field; equivalent experience will be considered
• Prior HR, employee relations, recruiting, or administrative experience required
• Manufacturing environment experience preferred
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and general computer systems
• Experience with HRIS, Paylocity, or recruiting platforms is a plus

Critical Skills

• Professional and approachable
• Positive attitude and team-oriented mindset
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills among all levels of the business
• Organized, punctual and dependable
• Ability to handle sensitive situations professionally
• Adaptable and willing to support operational needs as needed
• Motivated to improve processes and contribute positively to the organization

Work Environment

• Candidate must be willing to work from the office at the shop location in Starkville, MS Monday – Thursday, with remote working capabilities on Friday
• Office-based position located within a manufacturing plant environment
• Regular interaction with employees throughout both office and production areas
• Daily presence on the shop floor is expected to support employee engagement, communication, recruiting visibility, and workplace relationships
• Fast-paced environment requiring adaptability, professionalism, and responsiveness
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required in production areas, including hard hat, safety glasses, and steel-toed shoes