Senior HR Generalist
The Sr. HR Generalist will serve as a sole HR leader for the organization, reporting directly to the CEO, and will oversee all core HR functions including recruiting and onboarding, training and development, performance management, employee relations, compensation, benefits, and payroll. This role is responsible for maintaining compliance with employment laws, developing policies and HR documentation, and fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
The Sr. HR Generalist will utilize HR reporting and analytics to support leadership decision-making, lead initiatives to enhance employee satisfaction and retention, and help drive organizational effectiveness across a growing business. The ideal candidate brings 5+ years of progressive HR experience, including strong communication and problem-solving skills, a working knowledge of employment law, and the ability to build trust and provide sound, level-headed guidance at all levels of the organization.
This is a fully onsite position 4 days/week in Minneapolis.
Responsibilities
- Source and attract qualified candidates through job boards, networking, and referrals.
- Conduct screening and interviews; assist hiring managers throughout the selection process.
- Coordinate and facilitate new hire onboarding and orientation.
- Serve as a trusted point of contact for employee questions and concerns.
- Support healthy workplace communication and conflict resolution.
- Promote a positive, respectful, and inclusive culture.
- Conduct workplace investigations and support resolution of employee relations issues while ensuring fairness, consistency, and legal compliance.
- Establish and manage performance review cycles.
- Provide guidance to supervisors on coaching, documentation, and disciplinary processes.
- Support recognition and employee reward initiatives.
- Identify organization-wide and role-specific training needs.
- Coordinate or deliver in-house training, workshops, and skill development programs.
- Assist in career development and succession planning efforts.
- Prepare and process bi-weekly payroll accurately and on time.
- Maintain employee time and attendance records.
- Ensure payroll changes (raises, deductions, new hires, terminations) are entered correctly.
- Address payroll-related questions and resolve discrepancies.
- Serve as the liaison to benefits broker to administer employee benefits including health insurance, and retirement plans.
- Assist employees with benefit enrollments and inquiries.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws.
- Maintain accurate employee files, HR records, and HRIS data.
- Update and communicate company policies and handbook content.
- Track and analyze HR metrics to support decision-making.
- Prepare reports and insights for leadership.
- Support salary benchmarking, market analysis, and annual compensation review processes.
- Provide guidance to leadership on equitable and competitive compensation practices.
- Partner with managers and leadership to support organizational goals and workforce planning.
- Provide guidance on organizational structure, team effectiveness, and employee engagement.
- Advise leaders on HR best practices and people-related decisions.
- Identify opportunities to improve HR processes, systems, and employee experience.
- Lead or support HR initiatives and projects that improve operational efficiency and organizational effectiveness.
Desired Skills and Experience
- Bachelor’s in HR, Business, or related field.
- 5+ years of progressive HR experience.
- Working knowledge of HR practices and MN employment laws.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
- Proficiency with HRIS platforms and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Manufacturing experience preferred.
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ABOUT SKYWATER SEARCH
Start with your Short List
Led by a group of seasoned search industry professionals, SkyWater Search Partners brings new focus to a novel concept, “Short List Search.” Our purpose is to leave a lasting impression on the clients we serve by providing individuals who will make a measurable difference in their business. We strive to consistently deliver great results to our clients in a very timely manner.
Practice Areas
Our practice areas are led by highly experienced executive recruiters who take great care in fully understanding client requirements and candidate qualifications.
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• Supply Chain
• Consumer Package Goods (CPG)
Founded on long-standing relationships and hundreds of successful placements throughout the Twin Cities business community, SkyWater Search Partners is a proven resource for clients and candidates looking to quickly and confidently explore their “short list” of best choices. Count on us to find the best people – and the best fit.
