Human Resources Generalists provide professional HR services of a generalist nature either within an academic school, department, or business unit. They are responsible for having a general knowledge of multiple HR functional areas, applicable policies, procedures and legal compliance. Their typical duties may include coordinating the areas of recruitment, separation, layoff, and leave; leading employee orientations, professional development, and training; developing and implementing policy documents and handbooks; monitoring and advising on performance management; providing guidance on policies, procedures, and regulations. They may work independently or as part of a team. They exercise independent judgment for routine to moderately-complex issues while referring unprecedented issues to a higher level for resolution. Human Resources Generalists typically report to a manager or director or in some areas may report to an administrator.
Senior Statement
Senior Human Resources Generalists possess greater knowledge of operational and technical tasks related to Human Resources, distinguishing them from Human Resources Generalists. They are further distinguished by the complexity of assigned work; an ability to identify options and develop solutions for unique or unprecedented situations; greater decision-making authority; and the judgment, resourcefulness, and ability to identify issues and/or areas that should be addressed differently. They are resources for others, participating in mentoring, coaching, and training.
Typical Duties
This is an enterprise wide position.
- Must have a strategic grasp of, and regularly perform, HR functions across multiple areas of HR, such as: recruiting, employee relations, compensation, benefits, performance management, etc.
- Exercise some level of independence and autonomy, collaborating with senior HR leadership on areas of greater complexity
- Advise managers on performance management, long term planning, compensation, recruitment, and onboarding activities using a demonstrated breadth and depth of HR expertise
- Provide timely information, direction, and advice when requested by employees and managers
- Keep abreast of changing regulations and trends related to HR
- Identify HR issues and recommend strategic solutions
- Serve as a resource for the employment and recruitment processes
- Provide guidance to hiring managers and search committees to ensure search process complies with University standards
- Provide on boarding and off boarding guidance and assistance and ensures completion of related activities
- Participate in Universitywide HR initiatives and events
- Serve as the backup for lead HR Professional within organization
- Serve as a resource for HR generalists, coordinators and assistants
Bachelor's degree and 3-5 years of progressive professional experience or equivalent combination of education, experience, and training
Typical Licensure
SHRM-CP Human Resources certification or equivalent Human Resources certification
Job Specific Expertise
- Experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff and student environment or commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU
- Outstanding customer service skills and a high degree of professionalism
- Significant knowledge of principles and procedures related to multiple HR areas, such as: benefits, compensation, employee relations, compliance, recruitment, succession, HRIS
- Ability to synthesize information, provide advice, and address needs independently
- Advanced knowledge of federal, state, local and University policies and regulations
- Ability to conduct activities and make decisions according to ethical standards
- Ability to analyze and present information and maintain accurate and detailed records
- Ability to work collaboratively with senior leadership to develop strategic initiatives and monitor progress towards meeting strategic goals
- Ability to manage multiple competing priorities and effectively prioritize assignments
- Excellent oral and written communication in daily interactions
- Proven ability to clearly articulate HR information; complex, specific information in area of subject matter expertise
- Proven ability to advise other professionals on policy and procedures
- Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information appropriately and with discretion
- Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team, complete tasks without immediate supervision, and work with senior leaders to accomplish goals with the ability to lead and train
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint)