Human Resources generalist in Utica, New York at Fornino Foods LLC, dba Casa Imports

Casa Imports & Fornino Foods

Position Title: Human Resources Generalist / Payroll Administrator
Department: Human Resources
Reports To: Company Leadership
FLSA Status: Exempt

The Human Resources Generalist / Payroll Administrator is responsible for the day-to-day administration of all human resources functions and payroll operations for Casa Imports and Fornino Foods. This position serves as the primary point of contact for employees and supervisors regarding HR policies, payroll, benefits, employee relations, recruiting, onboarding, compliance, and personnel records. The HR Generalist ensures accurate and timely payroll processing while supporting a positive, productive, and compliant work environment.

• Process weekly and/or bi-weekly payroll accurately and on time.
• Review timesheets, attendance records, and payroll adjustments for accuracy.
• Maintain employee payroll records, deductions, garnishments, and direct deposits.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws.
• Process new hire, termination, and employee status changes within payroll systems.
• Reconcile payroll reports and maintain payroll documentation.
• Respond to employee payroll inquiries and resolve discrepancies promptly.
• Coordinate year-end payroll activities including W-2 preparation and distribution.

• Manage daily operations of the Human Resources Department.
• Maintain employee personnel files and HRIS records.
• Administer employee onboarding and orientation programs.
• Coordinate recruitment activities including job postings, applicant screening, interviews, and hiring documentation.
• Conduct new hire paperwork and employment verification processes.
• Assist with employee benefits enrollment, changes, and employee questions.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable employment laws and company policies.
• Maintain confidentiality of employee information and personnel records.
• Track employee attendance, leaves of absence, workers' compensation claims, and return-to-work programs.
• Support performance management, disciplinary actions, and employee coaching initiatives.
• Assist supervisors with employee relations concerns and workplace investigations.
• Coordinate employee recognition and engagement initiatives.

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, DOT, and company employment requirements.
• Maintain labor law postings and required employment documentation.
• Assist with policy development, handbook updates, and implementation of HR procedures.
• Support unemployment claims, audits, and government reporting requirements.
• Maintain I-9 documentation and employment eligibility records.
• Assist with workplace safety initiatives and accident reporting.

• Serve as a resource for employees regarding policies, benefits, payroll, and workplace concerns.
• Promote positive employee relations and open communication throughout the organization.
• Support conflict resolution and employee problem-solving efforts.
• Assist management in administering corrective action and performance improvement plans.

• Prepare HR and payroll reports as requested by leadership.
• Track workforce metrics including turnover, attendance, vacancies, and staffing levels.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation for compliance purposes.
• Assist with special projects and initiatives as assigned.

• Associate's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field required.
• Bachelor's degree preferred.

• Minimum of 3 years of Human Resources and payroll experience preferred.
• Experience processing payroll for multiple departments and employee groups.
• Experience in transportation, warehouse, distribution, manufacturing, or food service environments preferred.
• Knowledge of New York State employment laws and payroll regulations preferred.

• Strong knowledge of payroll processing and HR administration.
• Understanding of employment laws, wage and hour regulations, and HR best practices.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with payroll systems, HRIS platforms, Microsoft Office, and Excel.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong customer service and employee relations skills.

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to travel between company locations as needed.

This position operates in a professional office environment with regular interaction with warehouse, transportation, and operational staff. The role requires flexibility to support payroll deadlines, employee needs, and business operations.

Casa Imports & Fornino Foods are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.