Description

A generalist in human resources can help managers make the right decisions regarding human resources, for example, maintaining positive relationships with their employees and attracting new talent. The generalist can assist upper management in determining ways to hire qualified employees.

The generalist can also manage general human resources tasks including benefits, payroll and training. In some instances, it is important to review the company's policies and procedures and suggest modifications. Generalists can implement new policies or procedures. The ability to work in a team is essential since the human resources generalist must work with the top management as well as staff members. Human resources generalists typically work under the supervision of a director of human resources. The generalist is often in charge of personnel who perform general administrative tasks for human resources. Thus, managerial skills will be useful.

Usually, at least an undergraduate degree is required to be employed and a long period of experience in the field. A majority of jobs require having a master's degree. The job is typically performed in a workplace. However, traveling to different departments and traveling could be required to get in touch with employees from different departments. Computer skills are essential and it's important to operate Microsoft Word and Excel proficiently. The job entails a lot of tasks that must be completed, and it is essential that you are able to work in a multi-tasking environment as well as be able to perform well under stress.

Roles & Responsibilities

With 6-9 years of experience as an HR Generalist in the United States, your main responsibilities include:

  • Develop and implement HR policies and procedures to ensure compliance with federal and state labor laws, creating a fair and inclusive work environment.
  • Lead employee relations efforts, resolving conflicts, and conducting investigations into workplace complaints.
  • Manage recruitment and selection processes, including sourcing, screening, and interviewing candidates to hire top talent.
  • Administer employee benefits programs, educate employees on available benefits, and handle issues related to health insurance, retirement plans, and leave policies.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Human Resources (HR) Generalist role, the following qualifications are required:

  • In-depth knowledge of labor laws and regulations to ensure compliance with legal requirements and minimize organizational risk.
  • Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills to effectively engage with employees at all levels and maintain a positive work environment.
  • Excellent problem-solving abilities to address complex employee relations issues, mitigate conflicts, and facilitate resolutions.
  • Proficient in HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems) software to manage employee data, generate reports, and streamline HR processes.

Essential Skills For Human Resources (HR) Generalist

1

Strategic Human Resource

2

Human Resource Management

3

Candidate Onboarding

Skills That Affect Human Resources (HR) Generalist Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Regulatory

9%

Training

4%

Legal Research

8%

Recruiting

3%

Performance Management

8%

Project Management

11%

Microsoft Excel

6%

Onboarding

8%

Labor Economics

9%

Payroll Administration

4%

Career Prospects

The role of an HR Generalist with 6-9 years of experience in the United States is vital to ensuring effective HR operations. If you're looking for alternative roles in this field, here are following options to consider:

  • HR Manager: A position that involves overseeing HR functions, developing policies and procedures, and providing guidance to the HR team.
  • Talent Acquisition Specialist: A role focused on finding and recruiting top talent for the organization, including sourcing candidates, conducting interviews, and managing the onboarding process.
  • Learning and Development Manager: A position that involves designing and implementing training programs, conducting needs assessments, and facilitating employee skill development.
  • Employee Relations Specialist: A role focused on managing employee relations, including resolving conflicts, addressing grievances, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations.

How to Learn

The HR Generalist role is expected to experience steady growth in the US job market. According to a 10-year analysis, the demand for HR Generalists is projected to increase due to evolving workplace dynamics and regulatory changes. The role is anticipated to expand by approximately 5% in the next decade, resulting in a significant number of employment opportunities. Google data indicates that this growth is driven by an increasing focus on talent management, employee engagement, and diversity and inclusion initiatives. Overall, the HR Generalist position shows promising prospects for those seeking a career in human resources.