HR Generalist & Recruiter

The Nicholson Companies Inc.; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Nicholson Companies Inc. is seeking an experienced HR Generalist & Recruiter to lead all aspects of our HR function as a department of one.

You will drive recruiting, onboarding, compliance, benefits, payroll liaison, and employee relations while shaping our workplace culture and supporting growth. As a strategic partner to leadership, you will develop and implement HR best practices, manage HR systems, and oversee policy updates.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
• SHRM-CP certification is a plus and may be preferred for senior candidates.
• Experience with recruiting, onboarding, and HR compliance in a small or growing organization.

Responsibilities

• Lead recruitment and onboarding across departments from posting to offers.
• Maintain HR records and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
• Administer benefits and liaise with payroll providers.
• Provide employee relations support and help maintain a positive workplace culture.
• Develop and update HR policies and employee handbook.

Skills

Recruiting

Onboarding

HR policies

HRIS

Employee relations

Payroll

Benefits administration

Workforce planning

SHRM-CP

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field

Tools

HRIS platforms

Job description

We are looking for a dynamic and self-motivated HR Generalist & Recruiter to lead and manage all aspects of our Human Resources function. As a department of one, this role requires someone who is equally comfortable developing strategy and rolling up their sleeves to execute. You will be responsible for everything from recruiting and onboarding to compliance, benefits, employee relations, and HR administration.

This is a critical role that will partner closely with leadership and team members to foster a positive workplace culture and support our organization's growth and success.

Key Responsibilities*

• Recruiting & Onboarding*
• Manage full-cycle recruiting across departments, including job postings, sourcing, screening, interviews, and offers.
• Serve as a strategic partner to hiring managers to define staffing needs and streamline the recruitment process.
• Coordinate and manage onboarding and orientation for new hires.
• HR Operations & Compliance*
• Maintain employee records and manage HR systems.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
• Maintain and update HR policies and the employee handbook.
• Employee Relations & Culture*
• Serve as the first point of contact for employee questions and concerns.
• Support performance management and employee engagement initiatives.
• Promote and sustain a positive work culture aligned with company values.
• Benefits & Payroll Support*
• Administer employee benefits including enrollment, changes, and open enrollment processes.
• Liaise with payroll providers and assist in processing employee changes.
• HR Strategy & Special Projects*
• Identify and implement HR best practices to improve processes and enhance employee experience.
• Lead or support wellness, training, and retention initiatives.
• Provide guidance to leadership on organizational structure and workforce planning.
• Qualifications:*
• 4+ years of progressive HR experience, including recruitment.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple HR functions with minimal supervision.
• Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and integrity.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• SHRM-CP certification a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• What We Offer:*
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• A supportive and mission-driven team
• Opportunities to shape HR strategy and make a lasting impact

"Starting salary is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate's relevant experience, education level, certifications (e.g., SHRM-CP/PHR), and specific HR skill sets."