What are the responsibilities and job description for the Human Resources Generalist position at Total-Western, Inc.?
Location: Paramount, CA
Type: Full-Time | Exempt
Reports to: Director of Human Resources
Who We Are
Founded in 1972, Total-Western, Inc. is a premier provider of industrial construction and maintenance services serving the oil & gas, aerospace, petrochemical, food & beverage, and renewable energy industries. We deliver a full suite of EPCOM services, including engineering, procurement, construction, operations, and maintenance. Our core capabilities include ASME code welding, mechanical and civil construction, and electrical & instrumentation services. With offices throughout California, the Pacific Northwest, and Arizona, Total-Western supports complex industrial projects across the Western United States.
We are builders. Problem-solvers. Relationship-driven. Safety-focused.
We care deeply about how we show up, with our clients, our partners, and our people. Our work is complex, our standards are high, and our reputation is built on trust, accountability, and long-term relationships.
We are Professional.
We are Relationship-Driven.
We are Accountable.
We are Visionary.
The Role
The HR Generalist is a pivotal member of the Total-Western Human Resources team, responsible for supporting and executing core human resources operations that enable organizational effectiveness. This role plays a key part in both employee-facing and behind-the-scenes HR functions, including onboarding and offboarding, employee relations, recruitment coordination, compliance, and critical administrative support.
This position will serve as a central point of coordination for HR processes, ensuring accuracy, organization, and timely execution of day-to-day operations. Working closely with HR leadership and cross-functional teams, the HR Generalist helps maintain structured, compliant, and people-centered HR practices while supporting a positive and high-performing work environment.
This role is ideal for someone who takes pride in bringing structure, clarity, and excellence to HR operations while supporting both people and the business with integrity.
What You’ll Do
HR Operations & Administration
- Provide day-to-day HR support across all functions
- Maintain and audit employee records, HRIS data, and personnel files
- Support reporting, document management, and HR tracking systems
Onboarding & Offboarding
- Lead new hire onboarding and orientation processes
- Coordinate training and ensure a seamless employee experience
- Manage offboarding documentation and HRIS updates
Recruitment & Staffing
- Post job openings and screen candidates
- Support interviews and hiring coordination
- Partner with hiring managers to ensure timely placements
Employee Relations
- Act as a trusted resource for employees
- Address inquiries, resolve issues, and promote a positive culture
Leave of Absence Administration
- Support administration of CFRA, FMLA, SDI, PFL, and other leaves
- Prepare notices, track timelines, and manage documentation
Compliance & Verifications
- Respond to unemployment claims and employment verifications
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws
Benefits Administration
- Support employee benefit inquiries and enrollment processes
Safety & Compliance
- Partner with operations and safety teams to support training and compliance initiatives
Who You Are
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
- 3 years of progressive HR experience (industrial or construction preferred)
- Strong working knowledge of employee relations, recruiting, compliance, and HR operations
- Experience with HRIS systems (Dayforce preferred) and Microsoft Office
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, you build trust easily and remain approachable
- High level of discretion handling confidential information
- Working knowledge of California labor laws
- PHR or SHRM-CP certification (preferred)
Work Environment
- Primarily office-based in Paramount, CA, with occasional travel to field sites as needed
- Exposure to operational environments supporting industrial projects
Compensation & Benefits
Base Salary: $71,000 – $80,000 annually
Benefits Include:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Professional development and growth opportunities
Application Process
We want to understand you, not just your resume.
To apply, please submit:
• Your resume
• A brief note sharing why this role interests you and what you would bring to Total-Western
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
At Total-Western, you’ll be part of a team that values people, performance, and purpose. You’ll have the opportunity to make a real impact supporting both employees and leadership while helping drive a high-performing, people-first culture. Join us in building long-term partnerships, delivering operational excellence, and shaping the future of industrial services.
To learn more about Total-Western, visit https://total-western.com/.
Equal Opportunity Employer
- Total-Western, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status. We comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.
Salary : $71,000 - $80,000