HR Generalist at Guardian Energy in Lima, OH

Guardian Energy has an exciting opportunity for an HR Generalist to join our Human Resources team! This role serves as the HR partner for our Lima plant, supporting day-to-day HR operations while also helping drive company-wide HR initiatives. The HR Generalist plays a key role in employee relations, talent acquisition, compliance, benefits administration, and organizational development. This position will be located at our Lima, OH location and will report director to the HR Manager.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES

HR Operations & Payroll

• Administer HR programs, policies, and procedures for plant personnel.
• Maintain HR records and ensure data accuracy within the HRIS.
• Generate reports and workforce metrics as needed.
• Process and audit bi-weekly payroll for the Lima location.
• Maintain and update HR procedures and employee handbook.

Recruiting & Staffing

• Lead full-cycle recruitment for all Lima positions.
• Conduct phone screens, coordinate interviews, and support hiring managers throughout the selection process.
• Manage post-interview activities, including offers, background/reference checks, and candidate communication.
• Partner with HR team to drive college recruiting efforts and build relationships with local institutions.
• Provide recruitment support to other Guardian Energy locations as needed.

On-Boarding

• Oversee the onboarding process, including file management I-9 compliance.
• Collaborate with managers and EHS to develop tailored onboarding plans for new hires.

Benefits Administration

• Manage employee benefit programs and support annual open enrollment.
• Oversee benefit enrollment, changes, and terminations.
• Serve as the primary contact for employee benefit questions and 401(k) communication.
• Administer leave of absence programs and escalate complex benefit issues to the HR Manager.
• Assist with government filings and on-site training related to benefits.

Performance Management

• Maintain and update job descriptions.
• Support the annual performance review process to ensure compliance and effectiveness.
• Assist in handling employee performance matters, including disciplinary actions, promotions, and terminations.

Training and Development

Employee Relations

• Partner with managers to address employee relations matters, including coaching, conflict resolution and performance concerns.
• Conduct workplace investigations and recommend appropriate resolutions in partnership with the HR Manager.
• Foster a positive work environment through engagement initiatives and communication.

Compliance

• Ensure compliance with federal, state and local employment regulations.
• Manage the unemployment claim process, including documentation, appeals, and communication.

Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Leadership or related field.
• 4+ years of relevant HR experience, ideally in a manufacturing environment.

SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Proven experience in benefits administration, recruitment, and performance management.
• Ability to manage sensitive and confidential information with professionalism.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Effective at coaching and conflict resolution.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and adaptable with a positive attitude.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel and Word).
• Experience with ADP or other HRIS platforms preferred.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships at all levels.
• Occasional travel (0–10%).

Guardian Energy offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, performance bonus eligibility, profit sharing and generous time off
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• Guardian HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Employee Assistance Program with no cost to employees
• Continuous learning opportunities supported by a tuition reimbursement program