Human Resources Generalist

Ascend Wellness Holdings (CSE: AAWH.U / OTCQX:AAWH); Quincy (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A cannabis industry leader located in Quincy, IL is seeking a Human Resources Generalist to handle HR functions including payroll, compliance, and employee relations. The ideal candidate should have strong communication skills, 3-5 years of HR experience, and a related bachelor's degree. This role requires a hands-on approach in a cultivation and production facility environment, ensuring engagement and management of HR processes on-site.

Qualifications

• Have working knowledge of EEO, ADA, FMLA, and Workers Compensation.
• Demonstrate resiliency in the face of change.
• Be flexible, motivated, and resourceful.

Responsibilities

• Manage HR administrative processes related to payroll, benefits, and timekeeping.
• Maintain employee relations and resolve concerns effectively.
• Collaborate on employee development and performance management.

Skills

3-5 years of progressive HR experience

Strong communication and collaboration skills

Ability to identify improvement opportunities

Problem solving and analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field

SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR or SPHR certification preferred

Job description

About Ascend Wellness Holdings

Ascend Wellness Holdings (AWH) is a leading, vertically integrated multi‑state cannabis operator focused on building strong brands, delivering best‑in‑class retail experiences, and operating with discipline at scale. As we continue to grow, we are investing in the systems, processes, and leadership required to operate a complex, regulated business with consistency, speed, and accountability.

Role Overview

The Human Resources Generalist is responsible for the daily functions of the Human Resource (HR) department including but not limited to collaborating with Talent Acquisition on hiring and interviewing staff, with Payroll on administering pay, and with Benefits for benefits and leave. The HR Generalist will maintain employment records, enforce company policies and practices, and ensure compliance with appropriate laws and regulations.

Location

The HR Generalist works onsite in our Barry, IL Cultivation and Production facility Monday‑Friday.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage HR administrative processes related to timekeeping, payroll processing, leave management, injury reporting, benefits administration, HRIS data entry & maintenance, etc.
• Manage employee relations issues, build engagement, and resolve employee concerns effectively.
• Maintain a hands‑on approach to HR functions and provide a visible presence in the plant.
• Provide guidance on performance management and progressive discipline at the location.
• Collaborate with Talent Acquisition to recruit & hire exempt and non‑exempt employees, and complete onboarding paperwork for new employees.
• Collaborate on employee development and performance management planning with Leadership Development.
• Coordinate employee survey results action plans and drive positive employee engagement.
• Promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
• Monitor and ensure the organization’s compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, and recommend best practices; review and modify policies and practices to maintain compliance.
• Maintain knowledge of trends, best practices, regulatory changes, and new technologies in human resources, talent management, and employment law; apply this knowledge to communicate changes in policy, practice, and resources to upper management.
• Other responsibilities as assigned by Management.

Qualifications & Experience

• Have 3‑5 years of progressive HR experience
• Working knowledge of EEO, ADA, FMLA, and Workers Compensation
• Possess strong communication and collaboration skills
• Demonstrate a high level of initiative and drive to accomplish goals and deliver results
• Have the ability to deal with employees at all levels and maintain good employee relations
• Be flexible, motivated, and resourceful
• Have the ability to identify improvement opportunities, develop plans, execute, and achieve goals
• Have the ability to demonstrate resiliency in the face of change
• Be able to manage stressful situations calmly and swiftly

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• SHRM‑CP, SHRM‑SCP, PHR or SPHR certification preferred
• 3 or more years of progressive HR experience in a plant setting
• Strong problem solving and analytical skills
• Demonstrated project management and execution skillsHave the ability to work independently while managing multiple projects.
• Experience in culture change and change management

Work Environment

Role is based onsite within a cannabis cultivation and manufacturing facility. The environment includes active production areas with exposure to plant material, varying temperatures and humidity levels typical of cultivation spaces, and frequent movement throughout grow, processing, and packaging areas. PPE and adherence to facility safety and compliance protocols are required.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this job, this position is regularly required to sit and regularly use hand(s) to handle, grasp, feel, and or touch. This position is occasionally required to stand, walk and reach with hands and arms. This position is required to speak and listen regularly.

EEO Statement

Ascend Wellness Holdings, INC., ("AWH") and its subsidiaries is an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring / hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.