The HR Generalist delivers the full range of human resources services for our California manufacturing facility at Hydraulics International, Inc. (HII). The role's purpose is to make sure the plant has a skilled, engaged, and compliant workforce that can meet its production goals. Working closely with plant leadership and supervisors, the HR Generalist attracts and retains talent, resolves employee concerns fairly, and keeps the company in compliance with California and federal employment law. As a trusted advisor to employees across all departments, this person helps build a safe, respectful workplace where people want to stay and grow.
Key Performance DeliverablesEmployee Relations- Serve as the first point of contact for employee questions, concerns, and issues across all teams
- Conduct workplace investigations, document findings, and recommend resolutions
- Coach managers and supervisors on performance management, progressive discipline, and terminations
Compliance- Ensure compliance with California and federal employment law, including wage and hour, meal and rest breaks, overtime, and final pay rules
- Administer leaves of absence, including CFRA, FMLA, PDL, paid sick leave, and workers' compensation
- Support Cal/OSHA programs, including the Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) and Workplace Violence Prevention Plan
- Maintain required postings, I-9s, personnel files, and harassment prevention training (SB 1343)
Talent Acquisition and Onboarding- Manage full-cycle recruiting for hourly production and salaried roles, including staffing agency partnerships
- Run new-hire orientation and onboarding for all shifts
Payroll, Benefits, and HR Systems- Partner with payroll on timekeeping, attendance, and pay corrections
- Support benefits enrollment, open enrollment, and employee questions
- Keep HRIS data accurate and produce reports on headcount, turnover, and attendance
Programs and Engagement- Support performance reviews, compensation planning, and training programs
- Help drive engagement, recognition, and retention initiatives on the plant floor
- Update and enforce the employee handbook and HR policies
Required Qualifications- 5-7 years of progressive HR generalist experience in a manufacturing environment
- At least 5 years supporting employees in California, with strong working knowledge of California employment law (Labor Code, wage and hour, CFRA, PDL, paid sick leave, Cal/OSHA)
- Experience supporting an hourly, multi-shift, non-exempt workforce
- Proven experience conducting workplace investigations and handling sensitive employee relations matters
- Hands-on experience with an HRIS and timekeeping system, such as Payocity, ADP or others
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel
Preferred Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (strongly preferred)
- HR certification such as PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP
- Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred
- Experience with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement cultures
Skills and Competencies- Sound judgment and discretion with confidential information
- Clear, approachable communication with employees at every level, from line operators to plant leadership
- Ability to stay calm and fair in conflict situations
- Strong organization and follow-through across many open issues at once
- A practical, solutions-focused approach that balances compliance with business needs
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements- Work is split between an office and the production floor, where noise levels may be moderate to high
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required on the production floor
- Occasional early, late, or weekend hours are needed to support all shifts
- Must be able to walk the facility and stand for extended periods
Compensation and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is
$80,000-$90,000 per year. Pay within this range depends on experience, skills, and qualifications.
We offer competitive compensation & benefits package:
- Health insurance (Dental, Vision, & Life Insurance)
- 401(k) with company match
- PTO
