Human Resources Generalist

Position Summary:

The Human Resources Generalist will establish and manage HR functions, including recruitment, employee relations, compliance, and workplace culture. This role will ensure HR policies reflect fairness, transparency, and trauma-informed principles while creating a welcoming environment for all employees. The ideal candidate must be comfortable working with individuals experiencing homelessness and committed to building an inclusive workplace.

This position reports directly to the Executive Director and will play a critical role in developing HR strategies that support Helping Hands’ mission.

Key Responsibilities:

HR Leadership & Organizational Culture

• Develop and implement HR policies and procedures that align with nonprofit best practices and trauma-informed care.
• Lead efforts to foster equity, inclusion, and belonging (EIB) across all HR functions.
• Partner with leadership to cultivate a positive, mission-driven workplace culture that prioritizes employee well-being.

Recruitment, Onboarding & Retention

• Design and manage a fair, inclusive hiring process to attract diverse and mission-driven talent.
• Lead onboarding and orientation programs that support employee success and engagement.
• Implement strategies to improve employee retention and professional development opportunities.

Employee Relations, Training & Trauma-Informed Practices

• Develop HR policies that reflect a trauma-informed approach, ensuring that expectations and conflict resolution practices are clear, fair, and supportive.
• Provide training for staff on equity, inclusion, and trauma-informed workplace practices.
• Serve as a trusted HR resource, handling employee concerns, performance management, and workplace investigations.

Compliance, Benefits & Workplace Policies

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws while keeping up with HR best practices.
• Manage employee benefits and compensation programs.
• Oversee performance evaluations and disciplinary processes through a restorative and supportive HR lens.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, or a related field required.
• Experience: At least two years of HR experience (non-profit experience preferred).
• Strong knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices.
• Passion for fostering equity, inclusion, and belonging (EIB) in the workplace.
• Comfort working with individuals experiencing homelessness and from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Willingness to learn and apply trauma-informed care principles in HR functions.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive employee matters with professionalism and discretion.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and HR software systems.
• SHRM-CP or PHR certification is a plus.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:

• Prolonged periods working at a computer.
• Ability to travel within Springfield for community and professional events.
• Must be able to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds with empathy and respect.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $65,000.00 - $71,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Springfield, IL 62703 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Springfield, IL 62703: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $65,000 - $71,000