Human Resources Generalist

Company Description Dexter‑Russell, Inc. is the largest manufacturer of professional cutlery in the United States, known for its high‑quality materials and craftsmanship. As the successor to The Harrington Cutlery Co. and the John Russell Cutlery Co., the company carries forward a long‑standing legacy in American manufacturing. Based in Southbridge, Massachusetts, Dexter‑Russell produces one of the most extensive lines of professional cutlery available from a single manufacturer worldwide. Team members contribute to a tradition of quality, reliability, and innovation that supports customers in culinary and industrial settings. Position Overview Dexter‑Russell is seeking a hands‑on HR Generalist to support our 200+ employee manufacturing operation. Reporting to the HR Manager, this role partners with supervisors and employees across employee relations, recruiting, onboarding, HR operations, and compliance. This is an ideal role for an HR professional who enjoys being visible on the production floor, building trust across the organization, and making a practical day‑to‑day impact. Why Dexter‑Russell? Join a well‑established manufacturing company with a respected brand, stable operations and a practical, people focused culture. Work closely with HR Manager and operations to strengthen culture, engagement, and practical HR processes. Be part of a collaborative HR team where your work directly supports employees, supervisors, and daily operations. Ideal Candidate Profile Exercises sound judgment, discretion, and confidentiality in handling sensitive employee matters. Builds trust through responsiveness, fairness, and consistent follow‑through. Engages comfortably with employees across shifts, departments, and work areas. Balances employee advocacy with business needs and practical HR judgment. Shows initiative, professionalism, and practical problem‑solving in a fast‑paced environment. Key Responsibilities Employee Relations & Workforce Support Serve as a primary HR contact for employees and supervisors. Address workplace concerns, conduct investigations, and support timely resolution. Partner with managers on performance management, attendance, and discipline. Help foster a positive, respectful, and compliant workplace. Recruiting & Onboarding Manage recruiting for hourly and salaried roles, including posting, sourcing, screening, interviewing, selection, and offer coordination. Partner with hiring managers and supervisors to assess staffing needs and support timely hiring decisions. Lead onboarding and orientation so new hires understand company policies, culture, expectations, and resources. Coordinate pre‑boarding with Payroll and department leaders, including paperwork, scheduling, system access, and new‑hire communications. Support role‑specific training and follow up on new‑hire progress during the introductory period. HR Operations & Compliance Support compliance with federal and Massachusetts employment laws, company policies, and HR best practices. Maintain accurate HRIS records and employee documentation, including onboarding, compensation changes, discipline, performance, leaves, training, certifications, and background checks. Support policy implementation and consistent application across departments. Assist with HR reporting, audits, and documentation requests. Support workplace injury follow‑up, incident tracking, workers’ compensation reporting, and OSHA record‑keeping. Benefits & HR Programs Support benefits administration in partnership with the Payroll Administrator. Assist with open enrollment, employee communications, the annual benefits and wellness fair, and information sessions. Respond to employee questions about benefits, HR policies, and available resources. Training & Development Coordinate training programs, including harassment prevention and frontline supervisor development. Qualifications & Experience 3–6+ years of HR experience; manufacturing or multi‑shift experience strongly preferred. Strong employee relations experience and confidence working with frontline supervisors. Working knowledge of Massachusetts employment laws and HR best practices. Excellent communication, judgment, problem‑solving, and collaboration skills. Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field; PHR or SHRM certification preferred. Bilingual Spanish/English skills a plus. Work Environment This on‑site role requires regular presence in both office and production areas to support employees, supervisors, and daily manufacturing operations. Equal Opportunity Employer Dexter‑Russell is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr