HR Generalist

Human Resources Generalist Job Description

Job Summary:

The Human Resources Generalist will support the full spectrum of HR functions for a growing heavy civil construction company, serving as a key partner to management and employees. This role handles day-to-day HR operations, including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, benefits administration, compliance, and safety-related HR initiatives in a fast-paced, field-oriented environment. The ideal candidate is proactive, detail-oriented, and committed to promoting a positive, safety-first workplace culture.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage full-cycle recruitment for field and office positions, including posting jobs, screening resumes, conducting interviews, extending offers, and coordinating background checks and drug screenings.
• Oversee new hire onboarding and orientation processes, ensuring employees are properly trained on company policies, safety protocols, and job-specific requirements.
• Administer employee benefits programs, including health, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and other perks; assist employees with enrollments, claims, and questions.
• Handle employee relations matters, including addressing concerns, investigating complaints, mediating conflicts, and providing guidance on performance issues or disciplinary actions.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws (e.g., FLSA, FMLA, OSHA, EEOC), as well as industry-specific regulations relevant to construction (e.g., DOT, INDOT requirements).
• Maintain accurate employee records, HRIS data, personnel files, and reporting for audits, workers' compensation, and government compliance.
• Support performance management processes, including goal setting, reviews, coaching, and development plans for employees across office and field roles.
• Coordinate training programs, certifications (e.g., safety, equipment operation), and professional development opportunities to support workforce skills in a heavy civil environment.
• Assist with HR policies and procedures development, updates, and communication to ensure alignment with company goals and legal standards.
• Promote a strong safety culture by collaborating on safety initiatives, tracking incidents, and supporting return-to-work programs.
• Prepare HR reports, metrics, and dashboards for leadership on topics like turnover, recruitment pipeline, and employee engagement.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; SHRM-CP, PHR, or equivalent certification preferred.
• 3+ years of HR generalist experience, ideally in construction, heavy civil, manufacturing, or a related field with field-based employees.
• Strong knowledge of HR best practices, employment law, benefits administration, and recruitment strategies.
• Experience with HRIS systems (e.g., ADP, Paylocity, or similar) and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel for reporting).
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills with the ability to handle sensitive matters confidentially.
• Understanding of construction industry dynamics, including seasonal workforce needs, safety compliance, and union/non-union environments (if applicable).
• Commitment to a safety-first culture and ability to work collaboratively with field teams, project managers, and leadership.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites or offices as needed.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunity to contribute to a respected, growth-oriented company delivering high-impact infrastructure projects.