Human Resource Generalist

SUMMARY

The Human Resources Generalist is a professional-level position responsible for providing comprehensive human resources services across multiple functional areas, including benefits administration, employee relations, compliance, recruitment support, training coordination, and risk and safety collaboration. This role serves as a key resource to employees and management by interpreting policies, resolving complex HR issues, supporting investigations, and ensuring consistent application of employment practices.

The Human Resources Generalist works closely with the Director of Human Resources, Benefits Manager, Risk and Safety Director, and other HR staff to support daily operations while also contributing to special projects, workforce initiatives, and continuous improvement of HR systems and processes. This position requires a high level of discretion, independent judgment, and professionalism.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required, or an equivalent combination of education and related experience*
• Minimum two (2) years of experience as an HR Generalist or in a comparable professional HR role
• Working knowledge of employment laws, benefits administration, and HR best practices
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and HR information systems
• Valid, unrestricted Michigan Driver's License and ability to be insured under the GTB insurance carrier

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide day-to-day HR support to employees and management, serving as a point of contact for HR-related questions and concerns.
• Assist with reviewing, investigating, and resolving employee relations matters, including allegations, complaints, and workplace concerns, in coordination with HR leadership.
• Ensure consistent application and administration of Tribal employment policies, procedures, and practices.
• Participate in internal investigations of employee conduct or workplace issues, including documentation and reporting of findings.
• Administer employee benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, retirement plans, and voluntary benefits.
• Track and process new hire enrollments, changes, and terminations related to employee benefits.
• Serve as a primary resource for employee benefit inquiries, open enrollment support, and benefit education.
• Ensure compliance with COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, and other applicable leave and benefits regulations.
• Review Personnel Action Forms to ensure benefit eligibility and enrollment accuracy.
• Work closely with the Benefits Manager and Risk and Safety Director on risk management and safety initiatives.
• Review, investigate, and report workplace injuries to the Workers' Compensation carrier as required.
• Maintain communication with injured employees, supervisors, and medical providers regarding return-to-work status and work restrictions.
• Assist with the development, implementation, and maintenance of safety policies and procedures.
• Support recruitment activities, including job postings, applicant tracking, and interview coordination.
• Maintain applicant databases and filing systems to ensure accurate tracking and reporting.
• Assist with new employee onboarding, orientation, and required training, including harassment prevention and compliance training.
• Support internal job postings and external advertising when staffing support is unavailable.
• Assist in organizing and participating in job fairs, career workshops, and Tribal member employment initiatives.
• Enter, maintain, and audit HR data in assigned systems, logs, and software applications to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Prepare and distribute HR correspondence, benefit notices, and employee communications.
• Compile data and prepare weekly, monthly, and ad hoc HR activity reports for management.
• Assist the HR Manager with special projects, including succession planning, workforce analysis, and employee engagement initiatives.
• Participate in HR system updates, testing, and process improvements.
• Perform other related duties and special projects as assigned by the Human Resources Manager.
• Special projects as assigned by supervisor.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong knowledge of human resources principles, practices, and employment law compliance.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational, time-management, and prioritization skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail, documentation accuracy, and follow-through.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and confidentiality in sensitive situations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, HRIS platforms, and applicant tracking systems.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills grounded in the Seven Grandfather Teachings.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and perform effectively under pressure.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required*
• Two (2) or more years of professional HR Generalist or equivalent experience required

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS

• Must have a valid unrestricted driver license and be insurable by the GTB insurance carrier.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None

EQUIPMENT TO BE USED

• General office equipment including computers, printers, copiers, calculators, phones, HR information systems, etc.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Regularly required to talk, hear, sit, stand, and walk.
• Occasionally required to lift and/or move materials up to 25 pounds.
• Manual dexterity required for keyboarding and operation of office equipment.

TYPICAL MENTAL DEMANDS

• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism.
• Ability to manage stressful situations and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Ability to work under deadlines with variable priorities.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Primarily office-based work with regular on-site presence at Tribal departments and facilities.
• Occasional travel between GTB properties may be required.

COMMENTS

Native American preference will apply. Must be able to pass a background investigation and a drug and alcohol urinalysis as a condition of employment. Adherence to strict company policy in regard to confidentiality is a must.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Management retains the right to add or to change the duties of the position at any time. * Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents in lieu of stated minimums require prior approval of the Director of Human Resources.

Current Openings for Human Resource Generalist Jobs at Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians