Human Resources Generalist in Southern California or Phoenix Arizona at Smith Chason College

We're seeking a detail-oriented and personable HR Generalist to support our growing team. You'll manage the full employee lifecycle — from recruiting and onboarding to benefits administration, employee relations, and compliance — while helping build a positive, inclusive workplace culture.

Must be in the Phoenix or Southern California Area

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage full-cycle recruiting: job postings, screening, interviewing, and offers
• Lead new hire onboarding and orientation
• Manage programs such as Performance Management and Employee Recognition
• Administer employee benefits programs (health, dental, 401k, etc.)
• Maintain HRIS records and ensure data accuracy
• Ensure compliance with California and federal employment law (e.g., CFRA, PFL, meal/rest break requirements, AB 1825 harassment training)
• Support payroll processing in partnership with the Payroll team
• Draft and update employee handbooks, policies, and procedures
• Conduct exit interviews and analyze turnover trends
• Assist with workers' comp claims and safety compliance (Cal/OSHA)

EDUCATION / QUALIFICATIONS / COMPETENCIES:

• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field
• 2–4 years of HR generalist experience (California employment law experience strongly preferred)
• Working knowledge of CA labor law (wage & hour, leave laws, harassment prevention)
• PHR, SHRM-CP, or similar certification a plus
• Strong communication, discretion, and organizational skills
• Proficiency with HRIS platforms (e.g., ADP, Paylocity, BambooHR, Rippling)
• Payroll experience preferred

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid sick leave (per CA law) + PTO

CULTURE OF CARE:

Culture of Care is our commitment to create a supportive environment in which every student can achieve their educational and career goals. Culture of Care encourages one-on-one relationships. Creating a culture that focuses on the student and their wellness. This includes understanding the student's complex lives. It is about creating a school where everyone feels welcomed by:

• Creating a sense of community in all interactions and communications with students
• Identifying problem areas and offering assistance
• Opening up safe conversations for cooperative solutions
• Holding students to standards and goals that will ultimately make them successful in their careers