Human Resources Generalist

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

This is professional work in the administration of public-sector human resources programs. The Human Resources Generalist provides support to the Human Resources Director in the administration and coordination of City human resources functions and participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of HR policies, procedures, and practices.

The position works closely with the Human Resources Coordinator on recruitment, onboarding, new hire orientation, employee services, and other departmental projects. Responsibilities include assignments involving recruitment, employee relations, benefits, leave administration, workers’ compensation, classification and compensation, performance management, and regulatory compliance.

The position requires independent judgment, initiative, discretion, and the ability to manage assignments of varying complexity.

The incumbent provides guidance and support to City departments on HR matters and may assume responsibility for designated departmental functions in the Director’s absence, as assigned. The position provides opportunities to expand knowledge and responsibility across the full range of municipal human resources operations.

Work is performed independently under the general supervision of the Human Resources Director.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following functions represent the primary duties associated with this role. Additional functions related to this job/class may be assigned as necessary.

Essential Functions:

• Assists in coordinating day-to-day HR operations and works collaboratively with the Human Resources Coordinator on recruitment, onboarding, new hire orientation, and other departmental projects.
• Assists in the development, revision, and implementation of HR policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Helps ensure departmental practices comply with federal, state, and local regulations governing public employment.
• Participates in short- and long-range planning, special projects, and strategic HR initiatives.
• Prepares reports, correspondence, and data analyses to support decision-making.
• Coordinates full-cycle recruitment and ensures compliance with applicable regulations, including public-safety hiring requirements.
• Provides guidance and support to managers and supervisors on employee relations matters, performance concerns, and policy interpretation.
• May conduct internal investigations and develop well-supported recommendations for resolution.
• Administers and tracks FMLA, ADA accommodations, and other leave programs; determines eligibility, reviews medical certifications, communicates leave decisions, and ensures regulatory compliance.
• Coordinates the workers’ compensation process in accordance with Chapter 440, Florida Statutes, including claims administration, return-to-work coordination, and light-duty assignments.
• Provides benefits support, including assistance with enrollments, changes, and claims resolution.
• Assists with classification and compensation matters, position reviews, salary analyses, and related recommendations.
• Serves as a resource and liaison for employees, departments, elected officials, external agencies, and other parties on HR-related matters.
• Supports employee engagement initiatives and recognition programs.
• Responds to employment-related inquiries from employees, supervisors, applicants, and external parties.
• Processes personnel-related public records requests submitted through the JustFOIA platform, ensuring compliance with applicable Florida public records laws and required response timelines.
• Updates and maintains the HR database and HRIS, including edits, changes, and additions to system tables.
• Ensures confidentiality, data accuracy, and compliance with recordkeeping requirements.
• Maintains and administers the Performance Pro performance management system.
• Identifies opportunities to improve HR processes, strengthen internal controls, and enhance the delivery of HR services.
• Coordinates project activities and collaborates with the Human Resources Coordinator on shared assignments without direct supervisory responsibility.

Additional Duties:

• Serves on interview panels, including public-safety oral boards, as assigned.
• May attend unemployment hearings and prepare documentation as needed.
• Maintains membership in professional HR associations and participates in ongoing professional development.
• Represents the City at career fairs, community outreach events, and educational recruitment programs.
• Performs other related duties as required.
• May be required to report to work during declared emergencies.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of public-sector HR laws, regulations, and best practices.
• Knowledge of FMLA, ADA, FLSA, EEO, workers’ compensation, and other applicable employment standards.
• Knowledge of public-sector employment systems, classification and compensation, and governmental organizational structures.
• Ability to provide guidance and recommendations to managers and supervisors on HR matters.
• Ability to evaluate sensitive personnel matters, conduct investigations, resolve conflicts, and develop sound recommendations.
• Strong organizational, project coordination, and collaborative skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to analyze data, prepare reports, and recommend policy or process improvements.
• High level of discretion, ethics, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and HRIS systems.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and solution-focused while managing heavy workloads, strict deadlines, and fast-paced or emotionally charged situations.

RESPONSIBILITIES, REQUIREMENTS AND IMPACTS

Data Responsibility:

Knowledge of modern office practices, with emphasis on computer literacy, HR database systems, spreadsheet applications, and records and file management.

Communications Requirements

Substantial knowledge of business English, spelling, grammar, format, diction, and style as applied to written business communications.

Oral communication skills for effectively communicating information regarding City human resources policies, procedures, rules, and regulatory requirements.

Written communication skills for documentation and reporting on employee matters, assigned research, and special projects.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Human Resources, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Three (3) years of progressively responsible professional human resources experience.
• Experience in FMLA/ADA administration, recruitment, employee relations, and workers’ compensation.
• Valid Florida Driver’s License.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Governmental or public-sector human resources experience.
• Professional HR certification, such as SHRM-CP, PHR, or equivalent.
• Experience with classification and compensation, policy development, HRIS administration, and employee relations investigations.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and take initiative in resolving HR matters.

PLEASE NOTE

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE

The City of Palmetto is a DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE. As a condition of employment, all individuals who are offered and accept employment must complete a pre-employment physical and background check. Additionally, depending on the position, a drug screen may also be required.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE

The City of Palmetto is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug-Free Workplace. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.), the City of Palmetto will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

TO VIEW THE FULL JOB DESCRIPTION, PLEASE VISIT THE CITY OF PALMETTO’S OFFICIAL WEBSITE: https://www.palmettofl.org

Pay: From $58,639.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person