Associate Human Resources Business Partner - Austin, TX

Who We Are

Since 1955, we have been on a mission To Passionately Feed Millions Daily with High Quality Food People Enjoy! We are a third-generation family-owned and professionally managed organization with a commitment to strategic growth. We continue to be successful because of talented people, just like you, who choose to join our family and call E.A. Sween home. We pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming, respectful, and rewarding culture where employees are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work each and every day. At E.A. Sween, our team members are seen, heard, and appreciated not just for what they do, but for who they are. We hope you’ll join us!

What We’re Seeking

E.A. Sween Company is looking for an experienced and motivated Associate HR Business Partner to provide hands-on HR support within a fast-paced food manufacturing and logistics distribution environment. This role bridges day-to-day HR operations and strategic business needs, supporting leaders and employees while partnering closely with the HR Business Partner.

Compensation: The target salary range for this position is $65,000 - $70,000 annually, consistent with our internal compensation framework. This position is classified as Grade 13, with a full pay range of $64,327.67 to $96,545.96. You are eligible for an incentive bonus up to 5% of your annual salary, prorated based on your start date. Final pay will be determined by your experience, skills, internal equity, and available budget.

What You’ll Do (Responsibilities)

Employee Relations & Engagement

• Serve as the first point of contact for employees and supervisors regarding HR-related inquiries, fostering a responsive and supportive environment.
• Support investigations and resolution of employee relations matters in partnership with the HR Business Partner.
• Help drive employee engagement through recognition programs and culture-building initiatives that reflect E.A. Sween’s values.

Talent Acquisition & Onboarding

• Collaborate with Talent Acquisition to recruit for hourly and select salaried roles, ensuring alignment with business needs.
• Coordinate and enhance onboarding programs to deliver a seamless and welcoming experience for new team members.
• Monitor 30/60/90-day check-ins and contribute to retention strategies that support long-term employee success.

Performance Management & Development

• Guide leaders through the performance review and merit processes, ensuring consistency and fairness.
• Provide coaching to supervisors on effective performance conversations and progressive discipline practices.
• Track and support training initiatives, including leadership development and compliance programs.

Compensation & Benefits

• Serve as a resource for employees and managers on compensation policies and benefit offerings.
• Assist with annual merit cycles and support market data reviews to maintain competitive pay practices.

Compliance & HR Operations

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws (e.g., EEOC, FMLA, ADA, FLSA).
• Partner with Safety and Operations teams on workers’ compensation and Fit for Work programs.
• Maintain HRIS data integrity, prepare HR metrics reports, and recommend process improvements.
• Support Employee Resource Center (ERC) functions including onboarding coordination, electronic filing, new hire setup, and other administrative HR tasks to ensure accurate records and a seamless employee experience.
• Collaborate with the HRBP and ERC team to streamline processes, improve onboarding workflows, and uphold consistency in documentation and compliance standards.

Business Partnership:

• Work closely with the HRBP and site leadership to understand business goals and workforce needs.
• Support projects in labor relations, staffing models, and workforce planning.
• Provide HR insights to help drive operational excellence and continuous improvement.

What You’ll Need (Qualifications)

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 2–4 years of progressive HR experience in manufacturing and/or logistics/distribution environments.
• Experience supporting both hourly and salaried employee populations.
• Strong foundation in HR operations, including employee relations, onboarding, interviewing, and compliance support.
• Demonstrated ability to partner with leaders under guidance of a senior HRBP to implement HR programs and policies.
• Ability to balance tactical execution with learning and development toward broader HRBP responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality.
• Proficiency with HRIS systems (e.g., UKG, Workday) and MS Office Suite.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, multi-shift operation.

Preferred:

• PHR or SHRM-CP certification.
• Experience in union or labor relations is a plus.

How You’ll Find Success at EAS

• Value People Most of All: Show respect & care, embrace diversity, and empower others.
• Commit to Safety Everyday: See something say something do something, practice safe behavior, and celebrate safety success.
• Invest in Our Company to Thrive: Share ideas to improve, learn & grow, and embrace change.
• Think Before Doing And Act Decisively: Make thoughtful decisions, work together to find solutions, and do what’s right.
• Welcome Constructive Straight Talk: Be honest and respectful even when difficult, be open to ideas and feedback, and ask questions to understand.
• Serve Up Exceptional Experiences: Provide value to customers, take pride in your work, and help others to be successful.
• Enjoy What You Do!: Have a positive attitude, Live the Spirit of E.A. Sween, and celebrate success.

What We Offer

E.A. Sween is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and well-being of our team members. Benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• 8 Paid Holidays
• Company-Paid Life Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match – fully vested after 2 years
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Plans
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Recognition Program (Boss Bucks)