Human Resources Generalist at Virnig Manufacturing, Inc. – Rice, Minnesota

JOB SUMMARY

The Human Resources Generalist plays an active role in building a modern, people centered HR function within a manufacturing environment. This position supports employees at all levels of the organization, with a strong focus on front line manufacturing employees and leaders. The HR Generalist is visible, approachable, and engaged on the shop floor, providing proactive support, guidance, and development. This role partners closely with leaders to provide early support, relationship building, and practical solutions. The position supports day to day HR needs, employee development, backup payroll, and workers’ compensation partnership, while collaborating with the HR Director on complex or sensitive matters.

JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Building a Modern, People First HR Function

• Actively support the evolution of HR into a proactive, people-oriented function that meets the needs of a manufacturing workforce
• Help identify opportunities to improve HR practices, processes, and employee experience
• Be visible and engaged with front line manufacturing employees to build trust and understand day-to-day challenges
• Build strong relationships with employees and leaders through visibility, approachability, and consistency

People Partnership, Guidance, and Support

• Serve as a trusted, accessible resource for employee questions, concerns, and guidance
• Partner with leaders to provide coaching and practical support on performance, development, and workplace issues
• Support early, development focused conversations that help employees succeed
• Collaborate with the HR Director on complex, sensitive, or higher risk employee matters

Employee Development and Growth

• Support employee development through coaching conversations, goal setting, and follow up
• Partner with leaders to encourage skill building, growth, and continuous improvement
• Help connect employees to training and development resources
• Promote development focused solutions rather than reactive or punitive approaches

Payroll and Timekeeping Support

• Serve as backup for payroll processing to ensure accuracy and continuity
• Partner with payroll leadership to support timekeeping reviews and resolve pay related questions
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism related to payroll information

Workers’ Compensation and Safety Partnership

• Partner with Operations leaders who are responsible for injury reporting and initial response
• Serve as a supportive point of contact for employees throughout the workers’ compensation process
• Help employees understand next steps, benefits, and expectations
• Coordinate communication and follow up with insurance carriers and internal partners
• Partner with leadership and the HR Director on return to work and light duty planning

HR Administration, Compliance, and Programs

• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records and HR documentation
• Support compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws
• Assist with unemployment claims, leave administration support, and required reporting
• Support recruiting, onboarding, training, and HR program implementation
• Help develop clear, employee friendly HR communication and resources

EDUCATION

High School Diploma High school diploma or equivalent required

Bachelor’s Degree - Human Resources or related field/ A combination of education and relevant HR experience may be considered in place of a formal degree.

EXPERIENCE & TRAINING

• 2+ years of experience in human resources experience in a manufacturing environment
• Experience supporting front line manufacturing employees and leaders
• Direct experience with FMLA, PFML, ADA, and benefits compliance
• Experience working with HRIS, payroll, and benefits systems
• Experience with payroll, workers’ compensation coordination, and employee development preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and listening skills
• Ability to provide calm, practical guidance in sensitive situations
• High level of integrity and discretion when handling confidential information
• High attention to detail with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong organization, follow through
• Collaborative, curious, and people focused mindset

WORKING CONDITIONS

• This position is primarily office based and requires extended periods of sitting and computer work
• Frequent use of a computer, keyboard, and other office equipment
• Manufacturing and office environment with frequent time spent on the shop floor
• Occasional standing, walking, and movement throughout the workday

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Minimal – Up to 5% (rare or as needed)