HR Generalist

Job description

Primary Role: The HR Generalist owns and drives the daily HR responsibilities for a portfolio of JA HR’s client organizations. Reporting to the Director, HR Consulting, this role organizes, leads, and executes HR operations essential to compliance, employee support, and onboarding/offboarding, all while ensuring overall client success. The HR Generalist is responsible, accountable, proactive, and client-focused, with a clear understanding that every action taken contributes to a seamless experience and lasting impact for our clients. Key Accountabilities: Client Relationship Management Act as a first point of contact for assigned client HR needs, maintaining strong professional relationships and ensuring timely, high-quality responses to inquiries and requests. Partner with internal team members to provide consistent, high-quality client service. Daily HR Support Monitor and responds to clients communications, research answers, and provide practical HR solutions Manage day-to-day HR tasks including: Onboarding and offboarding processes Coordinate and oversee client employee lifecycle activities, including new hire onboarding, orientation, and separation processes, ensuring consistency and compliance with applicable laws and client policies. Benefit administration support Support clients in the administration of health, retirement, and ancillary benefits, including enrollments, changes, troubleshooting, and communication of benefits-related information. Leave administration (FMLA, ADA, state leaves, etc.) Support clients in administration of leaves of absences according to state and federal law and client policies – processing requests, sending out the required notices/communications, tracking and communicating with internal departments for processing. Employee relations support and documentation assistance Provide guidance on day-to-day employee relations issues, policy interpretation, and HR best practices, escalating complex matters to HR Business Partner and HR Director as appropriate. HR compliance items, audits, and recordkeeping Assist clients in adhering to federal, state and local employment regulations (FLSA, FMLA, ADA, COBRA, OSHA, etc) proactively identifying risks and recommending corrective actions or process. Technology Utilization Leverage HRIS systems, project management tools, and other technology platforms to streamline processes, increase efficiency, and track deliverables across multiple clients. Prepare and maintain HR reports and metrics as needed. Project & Task Management Support special projects for clients such as handbook updates, job description development, or compliance audits. Manage multiple assignments, priorities, and projects simultaneously, balancing routine tasks with client-specific initiatives to meet deadlines and exceed service expectations. Problem-Solving & Continuous Improvement Research HR issues, develop solutions, and recommend innovative approaches to enhance client HR practices while supporting the overall growth of the consulting business. Competencies: Strong attention to detail and organization Ability to handle confidential information with integrity Problem-solving and critical thinking skills Flexibility and adaptability in supporting varied client needs Client service orientation and ability to build strong relationships Collaboration Skills Relationship Building Initiative Learning Agility Analytical/ Problem Solving Time Management Skills Personal Effectiveness/Credibility Inquisitive – Natural Curiosity Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (preferred) 2–5 years of general HR experience required SHRM-CP or PHR certification (preferred) Strong working knowledge of HR practices, including onboarding, benefits, leave management, and compliance Experience supporting multiple stakeholders or clients simultaneously is a plus Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and deliver results under deadlines Excellent communication and interpersonal skills—professional, approachable, and client-focused Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); HRIS experience preferred Self-starter with initiative and strong customer/client orientation; ability to facilitate discussions, resolve issues, obtain consensus, and drive to conclusion High level of organization, emphasis on multi-tasking, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. High degree of respect for confidentiality Ability to earn and maintain client trust, along with excellent relationship management skills Work Environment This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, mobile devices – phones/tablets, photocopier, scanners, etc. Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. Position Type/Expected Hours of Work Some flexibility in hours is allowed, but the employee must be available during the “core” work hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Travel This position requires limited travel - up to 15%. When travel is necessary, the distance could vary depending on client locations. Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. JA Benefits is a client focused benefit consulting firm providing clear, simplified solutions to complex business issues. Our clients come first, and we strive to exceed their expectations on a daily basis. Employee Benefits Advisors take pride in their work, each other, and our clients. They understand we own and drive the client experience; each employee does whatever it takes to build and strengthen our relationships by providing exceptional level service and support to colleagues, our clients, and their employees. JA Benefits, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. As a privately held company, we offer a competitive compensation and benefits package reflecting our commitment to attracting and retaining great individuals. The benefit package includes health, dental and vision coverage, employer-paid short-term and long-term disability, and basic life insurance as well as 401(k) with match.