Senior Human Resources Generalist

Job description

We are looking for an experienced, bilingual Senior HR Generalist to support our production operations in a fast-paced candy manufacturing environment. In this role, you will be a trusted HR partner to our production employees and frontline leaders, helping create a positive, productive workplace while supporting the full employee lifecycle — from recruitment and onboarding to employee relations, investigations, performance management, and terminations. The ideal candidate is approachable, proactive, and comfortable working directly on the production floor to build relationships with a diverse workforce. You will bring strong judgment, professionalism, and a people-first mindset, along with the ability to coach frontline managers and partner with senior leadership on employee matters and business priorities. Key Responsibilities Recruitment & Onboarding Partner with production leaders to identify staffing needs across production, packaging, warehouse, and other operational positions. Coordinate hiring activities, including job postings, candidate screening, interviews, and onboarding. Ensure new hires complete required employment documentation, orientation, and company policies and procedures. Employee Relations & Performance Management Serve as a trusted resource for employees, addressing workplace concerns, conflicts, and HR-related questions. Conduct timely, objective workplace investigations, document findings, and recommend appropriate resolutions. Coach supervisors and managers on performance management, attendance, corrective action, and consistent policy application. Support disciplinary actions and terminations in accordance with company policies and applicable employment laws. Escalate sensitive or complex employee matters to HR leadership as appropriate. Production Floor Support & Employee Engagement Maintain a visible presence on the production floor to build trust, understand employee needs, and address concerns proactively. Communicate company policies, expectations, and workplace updates clearly in both English and Spanish. Support employee engagement, recognition, retention, and workforce communication initiatives, such as monthly birthday celebrations, work anniversaries, and team milestones. Plan and coordinate company holiday events and seasonal gatherings, including vendors, budgets, and bilingual communications to production teams. Identify trends in turnover, absenteeism, and employee morale, and recommend practical solutions. Leadership Partnership & HR Compliance Assist with board meeting preparation and logistics, including scheduling, materials, room setup, and catering, as well as other leadership meetings and company events as needed. Build strong working relationships with production supervisors, managers, and senior leaders. Provide HR guidance on staffing, employee relations, workforce planning, and operational challenges. Maintain accurate employee records, investigation documentation, and personnel files. Support compliance with applicable employment laws, company policies, and internal procedures. Track workforce metrics and identify opportunities to improve HR processes and consistency. Qualifications & Experience Bachelor’s degree in human resources or a related field preferred; equivalent relevant experience will be considered. 5+ years of progressive HR experience, preferably in manufacturing, food production, distribution, or a similar hourly workforce environment. Fluency in English and Spanish, with the ability to communicate effectively with employees and leaders at all levels. Experience supporting hourly employees and frontline managers in a hands-on operational setting. Demonstrated experience in employee relations, workplace investigations, performance management, and disciplinary actions. Knowledge of recruitment, onboarding, HR practices, and employment law compliance. Excellent communication, problem-solving, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Ability to handle confidential matters with discretion, exercise sound judgment, and build credibility with employees and leadership. Experience with Rippling preferred and Microsoft Office. About Us Ampersand Brands is a growing portfolio of beloved confectionery brands, including Hammond’s Candies, the iconic hand-crafted candy maker, and Lolli & Pops, a premium retail and gifting brand with a national presence. The company is backed by strong growth ambitions, combining innovation, brand storytelling, and operational excellence to expand its reach and solidify its position as a leading player in the U.S. confections industry.