HR Senior Generalist at Polk County (WI) – Balsam Lake, Wisconsin

Salary posted is the minimum for the grade.

The HR Senior Generalist plays a key role in supporting the organization’s strategy by delivering comprehensive human resources services across the employee lifecycle. This position partners with leaders and employees to provide expertise in recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, benefits administration, compliance, and training. The HR Senior Generalist ensures policies and practices are applied consistently, supports a positive workplace culture, and contributes to organizational effectiveness by aligning HR initiatives with business objectives.

1. Recruitment & Staffing

• Oversight of the recruitment and hiring process, including position development, recruitment strategy, and interview and hiring procedures
• Posting job ads, sourcing candidates, screening resumes
• Coordinating interviews and supporting hiring managers
• Conducting reference checks and extending offers

2. Employee Relations

• Serving as a first point of contact for employee concerns
• Supporting conflict resolution, investigations, and workplace issues
• Serving as guide to employees/potential employees on policies and procedures.
• Advising managers on policies and employee engagement practices
• Promoting a positive work environment

3. Performance Management & Development

• Coordinating performance review processes
• Helping managers with goal setting and feedback
• Supporting employee training and development programs
• Assisting with in-house employee training and performance management programs

4. Compliance & Policy Administration

• Ensuring adherence to employment laws and regulations (federal, state, local)
• Maintaining employee records and HR documentation
• Assisting with audits and reporting (EEO, ACA, etc.)
• Updating and communicating HR policies and procedures

• Monitoring the County’s wage and benefit programs for compliance and accuracy.

5. HR Operations & Data Management

• Maintaining HRIS systems and employee files
• Generating reports and metrics for leadership
• Streamlining HR processes for efficiency
• Supporting organizational initiatives and special projects

Supervisory Responsibilities: Supervisory duties as assigned.

Marginal Duties and Responsibilities: Other duties as assigned and general office back-up and support.

Education/Experience/Knowledge:

1. Bachelor’s degree in human resources or closely related field
2. 5+ years recent work experience in HR
3. Demonstrated knowledge of public sector HR practices and principles
4. Equivalent combination of education, knowledge and experience.

Certificates/Licenses/Registrations: PHR or SPHR or similar certification preferred. Possession of a current valid Driver's License or access to a regular source of transportation required.

Work Environment
Essential functions of this job are typically carried out in work environments with the following characteristics:

• Takes place in standard office setting with a moderate noise level
• Utilizes office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines
• Position may require occasional travel to other County facilities, training sites, or community locations
• Duties may require occasional evening or weekend hours to meet business needs.

Physical Requirements:

The employee is regularly required to:

• Sit for extended periods of time
• Use hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, telephone, and other office equipment
• Talk and hear in person and by telephone
• Reach with hands and arms
• Occasionally stand, walk, bend, stoop, or lift up to 20 pounds.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EEO Statement:

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

ADA Statement (Reasonable Accommodations):

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need assistance or accommodation during the application process, please contact humanresources@polkcoutywi.gov.