Bilingual HR Generalist

Job Details: Level: Experienced, Job Location: EAST CHICAGO - East Chicago, IN, Position Type: Full Time, Education Level: 4 Year Degree, Salary Range: $65000.00 - $75000.00Salary, Travel Percentage: None, Job Category: Human Resources, Job Title: Human Resources Generalist Reports to: Director of Human Resources FLSA Status: Exempt POSITION SUMMARY The HR Generalist reports directly to the Director of Human Resources and is based at our East Chicago manufacturing facility. This position plays a key role in supporting employee relations, recruitment, onboarding, HR compliance, and employee engagement. The HR Generalist will work closely with employees and supervisors to address workplace concerns, provide guidance on company policies, and promote a positive and consistent work environment. The ideal candidate is approachable, proactive, and comfortable working independently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This individual must have strong employee relations experience, sound judgment, and the ability to balance employee needs with business priorities. The position will also provide backup support for benefits administration and payroll as needed. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Employee Relations and Supervisor Support Serve as a point of contact for employees and supervisors regarding workplace concerns, HR policies, and day-to-day employee relations matters. Address employee concerns in a timely, fair, and consistent manner, escalating sensitive or complex matters as appropriate. Conduct employee meetings, gather information, and assist with workplace investigations. Coach and guide supervisors on performance management, attendance, corrective actions, and employee documentation. Support conflict resolution and help maintain a respectful and professional work environment. Maintain a visible HR presence throughout the facility, building relationships and trust with employees and leadership. Identify employee relations trends and recommend opportunities to improve communication, accountability, and retention. Recruitment and Onboarding Take ownership of the recruitment process, including requisitions, job postings, candidate screenings, interview coordinations, and candidate follow-ups, ensuring a timely and positive hiring experience. Partner with hiring managers to understand staffing needs and support timely hiring decisions. Coordinate pre-employment requirements, including background checks, reference checks, and new hire documentation. Lead new hire orientation and onboarding activities to ensure employees have a positive start. Partner with staffing agencies to support workforce needs, employee transitions, and staffing expectations. Monitor recruitment activity and provide updates on open positions and hiring progress. HR Compliance and Policy Administration Support consistent application of company policies and procedures across departments. Assist with compliance involving federal, state, and local employment laws, including FMLA, ADA, FLSA, and other applicable regulations. Support attendance management, corrective action processes, and employee documentation. Assist with leave administration and employee accommodation processes under the direction of the Director of Human Resources. Identify potential compliance concerns and escalate matters requiring additional review. Assist with employee training and communication of HR policies and procedures. Benefits Administration (Backup Support) Provide backup support to the Director of Human Resources with employee benefits administration. Assist employees with general benefits questions, enrollment changes, and qualifying life events as needed. Support annual open enrollment activities, including employee communications and enrollment assistance. Coordinate with benefits providers and internal partners to help resolve employee inquiries when necessary. Payroll Administration (Backup Support) Provide backup assistance with weekly and biweekly payroll processing as needed. Maintain familiarity with payroll processes and Paycom to ensure continuity when coverage is needed. HRIS and Employee Records Maintain accurate employee records and process personnel changes in Paycom. Ensure employee documentation is complete, organized, and maintained confidentially. Prepare HR reports and assist with tracking attendance, turnover, retention, and other workforce metrics. Identify opportunities to improve HR processes and recordkeeping. Employee Engagement and HR Initiatives Support HFG's Employee Engagement Team, including employee recognition programs, activities, and company events. Support initiatives focused on employee retention, communication, and workplace culture. Partner with supervisors and department leaders to identify opportunities to improve the employee experience. Assist with HR projects, training, and continuous improvement initiatives. Other Responsibilities Support additional HR projects and departmental initiatives as assigned. Perform other duties as needed to support HR operations. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field, or equivalent experience. 3+ years of Human Resources experience, with a strong emphasis on employee relations. Demonstrated experience handling employee concerns, workplace investigations, corrective actions, and supervisor coaching. Experience supporting full-cycle recruitment and employee onboarding. Working knowledge of employment laws, including FMLA, ADA, FLSA, and applicable state regulations. Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build relationships at all levels of the organization. Ability to exercise sound judgment, handle sensitive situations, and maintain confidentiality. Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and follow through on responsibilities. Experience using HRIS systems, preferably Paycom. Bilingual in English and Spanish. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS PHR or SHRM-CP certification. Experience in a manufacturing or fast-paced operational environment. Experience supporting hourly employees and working with staffing agencies. Familiarity with benefits administration and payroll processing. Experience supporting attendance management and employee engagement initiatives. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods. Ability to move throughout an active manufacturing facility. Ability to occasionally lift or move materials weighing up to 25 pounds. Ability to work in both office and manufacturing environments while following safety requirements. WHY JOIN US? Play an important role in supporting the growth of our East Chicago manufacturing facility. Work closely with employees and leadership to make a meaningful impact on the workplace. Help strengthen employee engagement, retention, and workplace culture. Be part of a growing food manufacturing company focused on quality, innovation, and continuous improvement. Qualifications: