What are the responsibilities and job description for the HR Generalist position at YMCA?
Are you a passionate HR professional who thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment? The YMCA of the North Shore is seeking a Human Resources Generalist to join our dynamic People & Culture team. In this impactful role, you'll support a wide range of HR functions across assigned locations — helping to build an inclusive, engaging, and high-performing workplace where employees can thrive.
Rooted in our core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, you’ll be a trusted resource for employees and managers alike, providing guidance and hands-on support in areas such as employee relations, compliance, onboarding, performance management, and policy administration.
What You'll Do:
Employee Relations & Compliance
- Serve as a first point of contact for employee relations issues
- Provide guidance on YMCA policies and employment laws (FMLA, ADA, FLSA, etc.)
- Support investigations, progressive discipline, and documentation processes
- Maintain detailed and accurate records of cases and resolutions
Recruitment, Onboarding & Offboarding
- Partner with the recruiting team on hiring efforts
- Prepare offer letters and ensure accurate, timely completion of new hire paperwork
- Assist with new employee orientations and onboarding experiences
- Conduct exit interviews and provide insights to leadership
Performance Management & Policy Implementation
- Guide managers through coaching, goal setting, and performance evaluations
- Educate staff on HR policies, procedures, and best practices
- Assist in updating and implementing policies as needed
Training & Development
- Support training sessions on compliance, management, and HR-related topics
- Track training participation and certification requirements
Culture & Engagement
- Act as a culture ambassador, helping connect staff to the YMCA’s mission
- Support employee engagement initiatives, surveys, and recognition programs
- Collaborate with leadership on creating an inclusive and positive workplace
HR Operations & Administration
- Assist with audits, projects, and compliance tracking
- Help maintain accurate employee data and records
- Process employment changes (promotions, transfers, terminations)
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in an HR Generalist or HR Business Partner role, ideally in a multi-site or mid-to-large size organization.
- Solid understanding of employment laws and HR best practices.
- Proficiency with G Suite tools and experience working with HRIS platforms.
- Proven ability to manage sensitive and confidential information with professionalism.
- Strong interpersonal skills with excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, especially in fast-paced environments.
- PHR or SHRM-CP certification is a plus.
What We're Looking For:
- Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills
- Ability to navigate complex organizational structures with a collaborative spirit
- Previous experience in HR generalist or related role preferred
- Familiarity with employment law and HR best practices
- Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
Why Join the Y?
- Be part of a cause-driven organization making a difference every day
- Work in a supportive, inclusive, and mission-focused environment
Enjoy excellent benefits, including:
- Professional Growth: Paid training, development, and advancement opportunities across seven YMCA locations.
- Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and employer-funded life insurance for full-time staff.
- Generous Time Off 3 weeks paid vacation, plus sick and personal time for full-time employees.
- Retirement Plan: 12% company contribution to your retirement fund (vested, no match required).
- Free Y Membership: Access to swim classes, fitness programs, discounts on childcare, camp, and more!
Ready to Make an Impact?
Apply today and become a valued part of a team that puts people first — supporting our staff, strengthening our community, and growing our future.