Senior Human Resources Generalist- Manufacturing

generac; Whitewater (WI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Generac is seeking a Senior HR Generalist in Whitewater, WI to partner with business leaders and drive a high-performing, engaged workforce. You will guide employee relations, talent strategies, and organizational growth while delivering day-to-day HR support.

This role blends strategy with action, involving onboarding, engagement, and events that bring our culture to life across manufacturing environments. You will influence leadership and help shape the employee experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, HR or related field; 5+ years HR experience.
• Experience in manufacturing/technical environments preferred.
• PHR certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Partner with leaders to align HR programs with business goals.
• Handle employee relations, investigations, and conflict resolution.
• Collaborate with department heads on leadership development needs.
• Administer compensation programs, salary planning, and job evaluation.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and company policies.
• Provide guidance and mentoring to HR staff and support onboarding and engagement.

Skills

Strategic HR planning

Employee relations

Policy development

Leadership development

HR compliance

Change management

Mentoring / coaching

Workday

Microsoft Office

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business or HR

Tools

Workday

MS Office

Job description

We believe power is a promise - a shared commitment to be there for others when it matters most.

For more than 65 years, we've turned big ideas into solutions that help protect homes, strengthen businesses and build a more resilient, efficient, sustainable energy future.

Ready to Power a Smarter World with us?

At Generac, our people power what matters.

As a Senior HR Generalist, you’ll drive impact by partnering with leaders and employees to build a high-performing, engaged workforce. Acting as a trusted advisor, you’ll guide employee relations, talent strategies, and organizational growth—while delivering strong, day-to-day HR support.

This role blends strategy with action, requiring agility, collaboration, and influence across all levels. You’ll also help shape the employee experience through onboarding, engagement, and events that bring our culture to life.

Major Responsibilities

• Partners with internal customer groups to ensure coordination of HR programs and processes within a specific business function or segment of the company.
• Handle more complex employee relations issues, including conflict resolution, mediation, and investigations into employee complaints or grievances.
• Collaborate with department heads to identify leadership development needs and create targeted development programs.
• Implements programs and policies that drive employee engagement and performance.
• Serves as a trusted advisor for managers in employee relations, training and development of their teams.
• Administers compensation programs, salary planning, and job evaluation.
• Ensures personal and company compliance with all Federal, State, and local laws and regulations; ensures compliance with company policies and procedures.
• Provide guidance and mentoring to less experienced HR staff, supporting their development and ability to handle routine HR functions.

Minimum Job Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Human Resources or related field or equivalent experience

Work Experience

• 5 years of experience in Human Resources

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Ability to think strategically about HR initiatives and align them with organizational goals and long-term plans.
• Ability to make high-level decisions regarding employee relations, policy development, and HR strategy, often under pressure.
• Ability to mentor junior HR staff and develop leadership programs that enhance managerial skills across the organization.
• Ability to lead and manage the human aspect of organizational change, including communication strategies and employee engagement during transitions.
• Strong attention to legal compliance in all HR activities, ensuring that the organization follows applicable labor laws and regulations at all times.

Preferred Job Requirements

Certification / License

• PHR Certification

Work Experience

• Experience implementing Human Resource processes and programs.
• Experience in a manufacturing and/or technical environment.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite software.
• Workday experience
• Proven track record of successfully managing shifting deadlines and priorities.
• Demonstrated skills in problem solving and conflict resolution.
• Prior experience in fast paced, growth oriented company.
• Ability to influence decision-making at the leadership level.

“We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.”