HR Generalist

HR Generalist

Lester, PA | Full-Time

This newly created position will be responsible for managing the day-to-day Human Resources needs of the company, including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, benefits administration, and compliance with employment laws and regulations.

The HR Generalist will work closely with senior leadership, managers, employees, and Corporate HR to provide timely, hands-on HR support and ensure consistent application of company policies and practices.

This position serves as the primary on-site HR resource for Independence Fire. The ideal candidate will be highly visible throughout the office and shop, build trusted relationships at every level of the organization, and be comfortable coaching managers, navigating difficult conversations, and addressing employee issues as they arise.

While our union field employees primarily require HR support related to compliance, benefits, and employment administration, this role will provide full employee lifecycle support for our growing non-union office and shop staff.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Talent Acquisition & Employee Development

• Partner with department managers, senior leadership, and Corporate HR to understand staffing needs and workforce planning.
• Manage the full-cycle recruitment process, including sourcing, interviewing, reference checks, hiring, and onboarding.
• Work with Corporate HR to develop creative recruiting strategies and build relationships with local trade schools, colleges, professional organizations, and other talent sources, as well as strategies for hard-to-fill roles and proactively build a pipeline of qualified candidates.
• Work closely with the Business Operations Department to coordinate onboarding efforts.
• Support employee development and identify opportunities for career growth.

Performance Management

• Coordinate and administer the performance review process for non-union employees.
• Provide day-to-day coaching and guidance to managers on performance management, employee development, documentation, corrective action, and career development.
• Assist senior leadership with compensation planning, salary benchmarking, and merit review processes.
• Support employee retention and development initiatives.

Employee Relations

• Serve as the primary HR resource for managers and employees, providing guidance on employee relations, workplace concerns, conflict resolution, disciplinary actions, and other HR matters.
• Build positive, professional relationships with employees at all levels through a visible and approachable presence throughout the company.
• Conduct objective workplace investigations and work with senior leadership and Corporate HR to determine appropriate responses and corrective actions.
• Promote consistent application of company policies and employment practices.
• Support a workplace culture built on respect, accountability, teamwork, and open communication.

HR Operations & Compliance

• Maintain organized and accurate employee records and HRIS systems, both written and electronic.
• Maintain a working knowledge of, and support compliance with, federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations and promptly escalate potential compliance issues to senior leadership and Corporate HR.
• Work with Corporate HR to implement and continuously improve HR policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Prepare HR reports.
• Work with Corporate HR and senior leadership to create and maintain an Employee Handbook and communicate policy updates to employees.

Benefits & Administration

• Administer employee benefit programs and assist with annual Open Enrollment.
• Serve as a resource to employees regarding benefit questions, enrollment, and changes.
• Partner with Business Operations to manage workers' compensation, leave administration, return-to-work programs, and related compliance.
• Maintain compliance with the Local Collective Bargaining Agreement as it relates to HR administration and employment practices.

Other duties and responsibilities, and projects, may be assigned as business needs evolve.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive Human Resources experience with significant experience in an HR Generalist role.
• Construction, manufacturing, industrial, or related industry experience required.
• Experience supporting employees at all levels of an organization, from entry-level positions through exe