Human Resources Generalist Job Description
Job Title: Human Resources Generalist
Overview/Summary of the role:
A Human Resources Generalist is responsible for managing the day-to-day activities of the HR department in an organization. They are responsible for a wide range of tasks, from staffing and recruitment to employee relations and benefits administration.
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Manage the recruitment and hiring process for new employees
- Develop and implement HR policies, procedures, and programs
- Develop and manage employee benefit programs
- Serve as a liaison between management and employees to resolve issues and disputes
- Assist in developing and implementing employee training programs
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations
- Manage employee relations, including counseling and disciplinary action
- Provide HR support to other departments as needed
- Conduct exit interviews
Qualifications and Skills:
Hard skills:
- Strong understanding of employment laws and regulations
- Experience with HRIS and other HR software
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
Soft skills:
- Strong leadership and decision-making abilities
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities
Education and Experience:
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or a related field
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in Human Resources
Preferred:
- Master’s degree in Human Resources or a related field
- HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP)Licensing (if applicable):
There is typically no specific license required to become a Human Resources Generalist. However, depending on the specific industry or organization, certain certifications or licenses may be preferred or required for certain positions. Examples could include certifications from the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM) or the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).
Typical Employers:
Human Resources Generalists can work in a variety of industries and organizations, including large corporations, small businesses, non-profits, government agencies, and more. Some typical employers may include healthcare organizations, educational institutions, manufacturing companies, and financial institutions.
Work Environment:
The work environment for a Human Resources Generalist can vary greatly depending on the organization and industry. Generally, this position requires a mix of office work and interacting with employees, supervisors and management. The work may involve creating and implementing policies, recruiting and hiring new employees, conducting employee training sessions, and addressing employee concerns and conflicts.
Career Pathways (both leading to this position and next positions):
Many Human Resources Generalists have a degree in human resources management or a related field, but it's also common for this position to be filled by individuals with degrees in other areas, such as business administration or psychology. Entry-level positions in human resources may include HR assistant or coordinator roles, which can advance to a Human Resources Generalist position with experience.
From the Human Resources Generalist position, career pathways can include roles such as Senior HR Generalist, HR Manager, HR Director, and other leadership positions within an organization. Alternatively, some may choose to transition to more specialized positions within HR, such as HR Analyst, Compensation and Benefits Specialist, or Talent Management Specialist.
Job Growth Trend (USA and Global):
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of human resources specialists, which includes Human Resources Generalists, is projected to grow 5% from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the increasing complexity of employment laws and regulations, and the need for organizations to attract and retain talented employees to remain competitive.
Globally, as companies expand their operations, there is an increased demand for human resources professionals to manage employees across different countries and cultures. As a result, the demand for Human Resources Generalists is likely to continue to grow in the coming years.Career Satisfaction:
The median career satisfaction rating reported by Human Resources Generalists is 3.9 out of 5 according to Payscale. Many HR Generalists enjoy the variety and challenge of their work, as well as the opportunity to work with people across all departments of the organization.
Related Job Positions:
Some related job positions to Human Resources Generalist include:
- Human Resources Manager
- Recruiter
- Benefits Specialist
- HR Coordinator
- Training and Development Manager
Connected People:
Human Resources Generalists work with a variety of individuals within an organization, including but not limited to:
- Hiring Managers
- Employees
- Benefits Providers
- Legal and Compliance Team
- Payroll and Accounting Team
Average Salary:
The average salary for Human Resources Generalists varies depending on location. According to Payscale, here are the average salaries for HR Generalists in the USA, UK, Germany, India, and Brazil:
USA: $54,853 per year
UK: £27,315 per year
Germany: €44,845 per year
India: Rs 353,067 per year
Brazil: R$ 50,776 per year
Benefits Package:
The benefits package for Human Resources Generalists varies by employer, but may include:
- Health insurance
- Dental and vision insurance
- Retirement savings plans
- Paid time off
- Flexible work arrangements
- Employee discounts
- Professional development opportunities
Schedule and Hours Required:
Human Resources Generalists typically work standard office hours of 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday. Overtime may be required during busy hiring periods or to complete projects. Some companies offer flexible work arrangements like remote work or flexible scheduling.Level of Autonomy:
As a Human Resources Generalist, you are likely to have a moderate level of autonomy. You will have to work under the supervision of an HR Manager or Director, but you will be responsible for a range of HR activities, such as recruitment, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and HR administration. You will have a certain degree of independence in your work and will make decisions based on your expertise and judgment. However, you may need to consult with your superiors for complex issues or when dealing with sensitive matters related to employees.
Opportunities for Professional Development and Advancement:
HR Generalists play a critical role in an organization's success, and their skills and expertise are highly valued. There are numerous opportunities for professional development and advancement in this field. You can enhance your knowledge and skills through certifications such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification, which offers various levels of certification based on your experience and expertise. Additionally, with experience and expertise, you can advance to higher-level HR management roles and leadership positions.
Specialized Skills or Knowledge Required:
To be successful as an HR Generalist, you should have a solid foundation in HR fundamentals such as recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and benefits administration, and knowledge of HR best practices, employment laws, and regulations. You should also possess strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to develop relationships with employees, management, and external stakeholders. It is also essential to have a high level of confidentiality and ethical awareness.
Physical Demands:
The role of an HR Generalist is primarily an office-based job, and there are no significant physical demands associated with this role. However, occasional travel may be required to attend HR meetings, workshops, or other HR-related events.
Tools and Technologies Used:
As an HR Generalist, you will be working with various HR software and tools, such as Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), HR Information Systems (HRIS), and Payroll software. You will also use standard office productivity software tools such as Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite for data analysis, presentations, and communication with team members or external stakeholders. Additionally, you may use digital recruitment, social media, and digital HR platforms to facilitate your HR initiatives.Work Style:
As a Human Resources Generalist, you must be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and possess strong organizational skills. You must also be able to multitask and handle multiple priorities simultaneously. Being a strategic thinker and problem solver is also essential in this role. You should possess exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, as you will be dealing with employees at all levels. Lastly, you must be a team player, proactive, and self-motivated.
Working Conditions:
The working conditions for a Human Resources Generalist may vary widely depending on the geographical location, company size, and industry. Typically, you will work indoors in an office environment. However, you may need to travel occasionally to attend seminars or conferences. You might also be required to work overtime or on weekends during peak periods.
Team Size and Structure:
The team size for a Human Resources Generalist can vary widely depending on the company's size and industry. You will be working closely with the HR Manager, HR director, and other HR team members. You may also work with cross-functional teams such as Finance, Legal, or IT. In some companies, you may be required to manage a small team of HR assistants or coordinators.
Collaboration and Communication Requirements:
As a Human Resources Generalist, you should be comfortable working with different departments within the company. You must be an excellent communicator and able to explain complex HR policies and procedures in a clear and concise manner. You must also collaborate with other HR team members to ensure critical HR tasks are completed. Lastly, you should be comfortable communicating with all levels of employees, including management, executives, and front-line employees.
Cultural Fit and Company Values:
Cultural fit and company values are critical for a Human Resources Generalist role. You must have a deep understanding of the company's culture and values to successfully develop and deliver HR programs that align with those values. You must also have a passion for people and understand the significance of the employee experience for a company's success. Lastly, you must be ethical, transparent, and trustworthy, as HR is entrusted with confidential and sensitive information.
Overview/Summary of the role:
A Human Resources Generalist is responsible for managing the day-to-day activities of the HR department in an organization. They are responsible for a wide range of tasks, from staffing and recruitment to employee relations and benefits administration.
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Manage the recruitment and hiring process for new employees
- Develop and implement HR policies, procedures, and programs
- Develop and manage employee benefit programs
- Serve as a liaison between management and employees to resolve issues and disputes
- Assist in developing and implementing employee training programs
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations
- Manage employee relations, including counseling and disciplinary action
- Provide HR support to other departments as needed
- Conduct exit interviews
Qualifications and Skills:
Hard skills:
- Strong understanding of employment laws and regulations
- Experience with HRIS and other HR software
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
Soft skills:
- Strong leadership and decision-making abilities
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities
Education and Experience:
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or a related field
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in Human Resources
Preferred:
- Master’s degree in Human Resources or a related field
- HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP)Licensing (if applicable):
There is typically no specific license required to become a Human Resources Generalist. However, depending on the specific industry or organization, certain certifications or licenses may be preferred or required for certain positions. Examples could include certifications from the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM) or the HR Certification Institute (HRCI).
Typical Employers:
Human Resources Generalists can work in a variety of industries and organizations, including large corporations, small businesses, non-profits, government agencies, and more. Some typical employers may include healthcare organizations, educational institutions, manufacturing companies, and financial institutions.
Work Environment:
The work environment for a Human Resources Generalist can vary greatly depending on the organization and industry. Generally, this position requires a mix of office work and interacting with employees, supervisors and management. The work may involve creating and implementing policies, recruiting and hiring new employees, conducting employee training sessions, and addressing employee concerns and conflicts.
Career Pathways (both leading to this position and next positions):
Many Human Resources Generalists have a degree in human resources management or a related field, but it's also common for this position to be filled by individuals with degrees in other areas, such as business administration or psychology. Entry-level positions in human resources may include HR assistant or coordinator roles, which can advance to a Human Resources Generalist position with experience.
From the Human Resources Generalist position, career pathways can include roles such as Senior HR Generalist, HR Manager, HR Director, and other leadership positions within an organization. Alternatively, some may choose to transition to more specialized positions within HR, such as HR Analyst, Compensation and Benefits Specialist, or Talent Management Specialist.
Job Growth Trend (USA and Global):
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of human resources specialists, which includes Human Resources Generalists, is projected to grow 5% from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the increasing complexity of employment laws and regulations, and the need for organizations to attract and retain talented employees to remain competitive.
Globally, as companies expand their operations, there is an increased demand for human resources professionals to manage employees across different countries and cultures. As a result, the demand for Human Resources Generalists is likely to continue to grow in the coming years.Career Satisfaction:
The median career satisfaction rating reported by Human Resources Generalists is 3.9 out of 5 according to Payscale. Many HR Generalists enjoy the variety and challenge of their work, as well as the opportunity to work with people across all departments of the organization.
Related Job Positions:
Some related job positions to Human Resources Generalist include:
- Human Resources Manager
- Recruiter
- Benefits Specialist
- HR Coordinator
- Training and Development Manager
Connected People:
Human Resources Generalists work with a variety of individuals within an organization, including but not limited to:
- Hiring Managers
- Employees
- Benefits Providers
- Legal and Compliance Team
- Payroll and Accounting Team
Average Salary:
The average salary for Human Resources Generalists varies depending on location. According to Payscale, here are the average salaries for HR Generalists in the USA, UK, Germany, India, and Brazil:
USA: $54,853 per year
UK: £27,315 per year
Germany: €44,845 per year
India: Rs 353,067 per year
Brazil: R$ 50,776 per year
Benefits Package:
The benefits package for Human Resources Generalists varies by employer, but may include:
- Health insurance
- Dental and vision insurance
- Retirement savings plans
- Paid time off
- Flexible work arrangements
- Employee discounts
- Professional development opportunities
Schedule and Hours Required:
Human Resources Generalists typically work standard office hours of 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday. Overtime may be required during busy hiring periods or to complete projects. Some companies offer flexible work arrangements like remote work or flexible scheduling.Level of Autonomy:
As a Human Resources Generalist, you are likely to have a moderate level of autonomy. You will have to work under the supervision of an HR Manager or Director, but you will be responsible for a range of HR activities, such as recruitment, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and HR administration. You will have a certain degree of independence in your work and will make decisions based on your expertise and judgment. However, you may need to consult with your superiors for complex issues or when dealing with sensitive matters related to employees.
Opportunities for Professional Development and Advancement:
HR Generalists play a critical role in an organization's success, and their skills and expertise are highly valued. There are numerous opportunities for professional development and advancement in this field. You can enhance your knowledge and skills through certifications such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification, which offers various levels of certification based on your experience and expertise. Additionally, with experience and expertise, you can advance to higher-level HR management roles and leadership positions.
Specialized Skills or Knowledge Required:
To be successful as an HR Generalist, you should have a solid foundation in HR fundamentals such as recruitment, employee relations, performance management, and benefits administration, and knowledge of HR best practices, employment laws, and regulations. You should also possess strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to develop relationships with employees, management, and external stakeholders. It is also essential to have a high level of confidentiality and ethical awareness.
Physical Demands:
The role of an HR Generalist is primarily an office-based job, and there are no significant physical demands associated with this role. However, occasional travel may be required to attend HR meetings, workshops, or other HR-related events.
Tools and Technologies Used:
As an HR Generalist, you will be working with various HR software and tools, such as Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), HR Information Systems (HRIS), and Payroll software. You will also use standard office productivity software tools such as Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite for data analysis, presentations, and communication with team members or external stakeholders. Additionally, you may use digital recruitment, social media, and digital HR platforms to facilitate your HR initiatives.Work Style:
As a Human Resources Generalist, you must be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and possess strong organizational skills. You must also be able to multitask and handle multiple priorities simultaneously. Being a strategic thinker and problem solver is also essential in this role. You should possess exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, as you will be dealing with employees at all levels. Lastly, you must be a team player, proactive, and self-motivated.
Working Conditions:
The working conditions for a Human Resources Generalist may vary widely depending on the geographical location, company size, and industry. Typically, you will work indoors in an office environment. However, you may need to travel occasionally to attend seminars or conferences. You might also be required to work overtime or on weekends during peak periods.
Team Size and Structure:
The team size for a Human Resources Generalist can vary widely depending on the company's size and industry. You will be working closely with the HR Manager, HR director, and other HR team members. You may also work with cross-functional teams such as Finance, Legal, or IT. In some companies, you may be required to manage a small team of HR assistants or coordinators.
Collaboration and Communication Requirements:
As a Human Resources Generalist, you should be comfortable working with different departments within the company. You must be an excellent communicator and able to explain complex HR policies and procedures in a clear and concise manner. You must also collaborate with other HR team members to ensure critical HR tasks are completed. Lastly, you should be comfortable communicating with all levels of employees, including management, executives, and front-line employees.
Cultural Fit and Company Values:
Cultural fit and company values are critical for a Human Resources Generalist role. You must have a deep understanding of the company's culture and values to successfully develop and deliver HR programs that align with those values. You must also have a passion for people and understand the significance of the employee experience for a company's success. Lastly, you must be ethical, transparent, and trustworthy, as HR is entrusted with confidential and sensitive information.