What are the responsibilities and job description for the HR Generalist position at Decision Associates?
On behalf of our client, Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) located in Erie, Pennsylvania, Decision Associates is seeking applicants for the position of Human Resources Generalist. EMTA serves as the public transportation provider for Erie County, Pennsylvania. In operation since 1966, EMTA provides two divisions of public transportation, “The e” fixed route buses and the LIFT to provide paratransit to county residents with mobility issues.
Working at their facility in Erie, the HR Generalist would oversee key HR functions including labor relations, recruitment, employee relations, benefits administration, and compliance. This role functions as a one-person HR department and will serve as a trusted advisor to leadership and employees, fostering a positive workplace culture and driving continuous improvement in HR processes.
This position is 100% on-site (no remote or hybrid option). At this time, EMTA is only seeking candidates who already reside within a reasonable commuting distance from their offices.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as main point of contact for all labor relations, collective bargaining, and grievance processes.
- Manage full-cycle recruitment, onboarding, promotions, and terminations, ensuring compliance with employment laws and best practices.
- Administer and oversee payroll processing, employee benefits (health, dental, life insurance, FMLA, disability, etc.), and annual open enrollment.
- Maintain and update employee files/records, and applicant documentation while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws.
- Act as a key liaison for employee relations, assisting with workplace concerns, conflict resolution, and disciplinary actions in coordination with leadership and legal counsel.
- Monitor and enforce attendance, leave policies, and overtime tracking.
- Administer and track workers’ compensation claims, following up on open cases and coordinating with insurance providers.
- Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies, including the Employee Handbook and other organizational procedures.
- Lead employee engagement initiatives, recognition programs, and professional development efforts.
- Provide HR-related reporting and analytics to leadership, tracking key metrics and performance data.
- Occasionally attend meetings, conferences, and training sessions that may require travel.
- Minimum of a bachelor's degree in human resources, business, or closely related field. Certification in HR or benefits preferred, (i.e. PHR).
- Minimum of seven (7) years of Human Resources experience with at least 2 in a labor environment and including experience in recruitment, benefits administration, and compliance.
- Experience in public transportation preferred.
- Must be able to pass both Act 33/34 clearances and background check.
- Required experience in managing union environments, collective bargaining agreements, and grievance processes.
- Ability to operate as a one-person HR department while collaborating with leadership and employees.
- Ability to navigate complex employee relations while fostering a positive workplace culture.
- Superior written and oral communication skills
- Excellent problem solving and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently.
- Ability to perform multiple tasks and manage multiple responsibilities concurrently.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills.
- Must maintain confidentiality with regard to all information and records.
- Proficient ability to use a variety of technology products including MS Office products.
- Medical, vision, and dental insurance
- 457 Plan with company contribution
- Life insurance
- Sick/Accident Insurance
- Paid time off/paid holidays
The Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) is an equal opportunity employer.
