Contract-to-Hire Human Resources Generalist

Hirewell; Lake Forest (IL); Hybrid; USD 55,104 - 68,880; Part time

Job summary

A reputable higher education institution in Lake Forest, IL, is seeking a proactive HR Generalist (or HR Manager) to support essential HR functions, including employee relations and compliance. This part-time role offers the potential for full-time conversion based on performance. Candidates should have 5–7 years of progressive HR experience, preferably in a higher education context. Join a collaborative HR team and contribute to impactful HR initiatives within an inclusive academic environment.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of progressive HR experience focusing on employee relations and compliance.
• Experience with immigration administration preferred but not mandatory.
• Familiarity with Illinois employment laws.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a trusted advisor on HR policies and employee relations.
• Manage employee relations investigations and conflict resolution.
• Support HR compliance and policy interpretation.
• Assist with immigration-related administrative processes.
• Contribute to various HR initiatives and special projects.
• Support onboarding and maintain confidential employee records.

Skills

Employee relations

HR compliance

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or Business Administration

Job description

Base pay range

$40.00/hr - $50.00/hr

Location: Lake Forest, IL (Hybrid)

Reports to: VP of Human Resources

A reputable higher education institution based in the North Shore suburb of Lake Forest, Illinois, committed to academic excellence, inclusion, and community engagement. The campus serves a diverse population of faculty, staff, and students from around the world and is known for its collaborative, supportive culture.

Position Overview

The organization is seeking a proactive and experienced HR Generalist (or HR Manager) to support employee relations, compliance, and other key HR functions. This is a part‑time opportunity to start and offers the potential to transition into a full‑time, contract‑to‑hire opportunity based on performance and evolving business needs.

The ideal candidate brings a strong HR foundation, positive energy, and a hands‑on work ethic—ready to take ownership of day‑to‑day HR matters and contribute to ongoing HR projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a trusted advisor to employees and managers on HR policies, employee relations, and compliance matters.
• Manage employee relations investigations, documentation, and conflict resolution with professionalism and confidentiality.
• Support HR compliance, including policy interpretation, employment law updates, and adherence to institutional policies.
• Assist with immigration‑related administrative processes, including documentation and coordination for international employees and students.
• Contribute to various HR initiatives and special projects as assigned by the VP of HR.
• Support onboarding, offboarding, and HRIS data integrity as needed.
• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records in accordance with organizational policies and applicable regulations.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of progressive HR experience with a strong focus on employee relations and compliance.
• Exposure to immigration administration and related processes (experience in higher education or global workforce environments preferred).
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively across diverse employee groups.
• Highly organized and detail‑oriented with strong judgment and discretion.
• Proactive, adaptable, and collaborative work style—comfortable wearing multiple hats in a small HR team.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Familiarity with employment laws and regulations applicable in Illinois.
• Must be able to commute to Lake Forest, IL (North Suburbs preferred).

Work Schedule & Structure

• Potential: Opportunity for full‑time conversion based on performance and departmental needs.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a collaborative, mission‑driven HR team within a respected educational environment. You’ll have the chance to make an immediate impact, work closely with senior leadership, and grow into a broader role as the HR function evolves.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Contract

Job function

Human Resources

Industries

Higher Education