Human Resources Generalist

WinnCompanies; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

WinnCompanies seeks an HR Generalist to act as a trusted partner for employees, managers, and leadership. Reporting to the Vice President of HR, you will guide employee relations, performance management, investigations, and employment practices while fostering a positive, inclusive, compliant workplace culture.

The role supports a hybrid schedule at Chicago properties, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM with remote Fridays, and occasional travel to out-of-state properties.

Qualifications

• Experience handling employee relations investigations and performance concerns.

Responsibilities

• Serve as HR partner for employees and managers across the region, advising on policies, performance, and relations.

Skills

Employee relations

Performance management

Coaching

Policy guidance

Communication

Education

Associate degree

Bachelor’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

About the Opportunity

WinnCompanies is seeking a Human Resources Generalist to serve as a trusted HR partner supporting employees, managers, and leadership across our organization. Reporting to the Vice President of Human Resources, this role will provide guidance on employee relations matters, workplace policies, performance management, investigations, and employment practices. The ideal candidate will bring strong communication skills, sound judgment, and the ability to build relationships while helping foster a positive, inclusive, and compliant workplace culture.

The salary range for this role is $80,000.00-$90,000.00 annually dependent on experience. The selected candidate will adhere to the following hybrid work schedule based out of our Chicago properties: Monday through Friday from 8:00AM to 5:00PM with the ability to be remote on Fridays. Occasional travel to out-of-state properties may be required.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary Human Resources partner for employees and managers throughout the assigned region, providing guidance on policies, procedures, performance management, and employee relations matters.
• Conduct and support employee relations investigations, including workplace complaints, policy violations, performance concerns, and other complex employment matters, while ensuring appropriate documentation and follow-up actions.
• Coach and support managers on performance management, corrective action processes, employee development, communication strategies, and conflict resolution.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations; provide guidance on employment-related risk management and best practices.
• Partner with operational leaders to identify and address workforce issues while fostering a positive employee experience and inclusive workplace culture.
• Support recruiting efforts by partnering with hiring managers and Talent Acquisition to facilitate the hiring process, maintain hiring timelines, and ensure a positive candidate experience.
• Lead and coordinate regional onboarding activities, ensuring new hires receive a consistent and welcoming experience from offer acceptance through orientation and integration into the organization.
• Facilitate and support new hire orientations, employee training programs, leadership development initiatives, and policy-related communications.
• Champion employee engagement efforts, recognition programs, and regional initiatives designed to improve retention and employee satisfaction.
• Serve as the liaison between regional leadership and the broader Human Resources team to ensure successful implementation of HR programs, policies, and organizational initiatives.
• Manage and support HR operational activities, including reporting, audits, personnel changes, leave administration support, compliance tracking, training completion monitoring, and other HR-related processes.
• Maintain accurate employee records and HR documentation while ensuring confidentiality and compliance with company policies.
• Analyze HR data and reports to identify trends, support decision-making, and make recommendations to leadership.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered in lieu of education.
• 3-5 years of progressive Human Resources experience with significant exposure to employee relations, performance management, and manager coaching.
• Experience conducting workplace investigations and managing employee relations matters from initial intake through resolution.
• Working knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
• Experience partnering directly with operational leaders and providing consultative HR support.
• Strong conflict resolution, problem-solving, and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to engage employees and leaders at all levels.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Valid driver's license in good standing and ability to travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or equivalent HR certification.
• Experience supporting unionized workforces or working in a labor relations environment.
• Experience supporting geographically dispersed employee populations across multiple locations.
• Experience within property management, affordable housing, real estate, hospitality, healthcare, or other multi-site service environments.
• Experience facilitating new hire orientation and employee training programs.
• Knowledge of HRIS, LMS, and workforce management systems.