Associate Human Resources Business Partner - Chicago, IL

E.A. Sween Company•Chicago, IL

63d•$75,000 - $85,000

About The Position

E.A. Sween Company is looking for an experienced and motivated Associate HR Business Partner to provide hands-on HR support within a fast-paced food manufacturing and logistics distribution environment. This role bridges day-to-day HR operations and strategic business needs, supporting leaders and employees while partnering closely with the HR Business Partner.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience).
2-4 years of progressive HR experience in manufacturing and/or logistics/distribution environments.
Experience supporting both hourly and salaried employee populations.
Strong foundation in HR operations, including employee relations, onboarding, interviewing, and compliance support.
Demonstrated ability to partner with leaders under guidance of a senior HRBP to implement HR programs and policies.
Ability to balance tactical execution with learning and development toward broader HRBP responsibilities.
Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices.
Excellent communication, facilitation, and relationship-building skills.
Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality.
Proficiency with HRIS systems (e.g., UKG, Workday) and MS Office Suite.
Comfort working in a fast-paced, multi-shift operation.

Nice To Haves

PHR or SHRM-CP certification.
Experience in union or labor relations is a plus.

Responsibilities

Serve as the first point of contact for employees and supervisors regarding HR-related inquiries, fostering a responsive and supportive environment.
Support investigations and resolution of employee relations matters in partnership with the HR Business Partner.
Help drive employee engagement through recognition programs and culture-building initiatives that reflect E.A. Sween's values.
Collaborate with Talent Acquisition to recruit for hourly and select salaried roles, ensuring alignment with business needs.
Coordinate and enhance onboarding programs to deliver a seamless and welcoming experience for new team members.
Monitor 30/60/90-day check-ins and contribute to retention strategies that support long-term employee success.
Guide leaders through the performance review and merit processes, ensuring consistency and fairness.
Provide coaching to supervisors on effective performance conversations and progressive discipline practices.
Track and support training initiatives, including leadership development and compliance programs.
Serve as a resource for employees and managers on compensation policies and benefit offerings.
Assist with annual merit cycles and support market data reviews to maintain competitive pay practices.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws (e.g., EEOC, FMLA, ADA, FLSA).
Partner with Safety and Operations teams on workers' compensation and Fit for Work programs.
Maintain HRIS data integrity, prepare HR metrics reports, and recommend process improvements.
Support Employee Resource Center (ERC) functions including onboarding coordination, electronic filing, new hire setup, and other administrative HR tasks to ensure accurate records and a seamless employee experience.
Collaborate with the HRBP and ERC team to streamline processes, improve onboarding workflows, and uphold consistency in documentation and compliance standards.
Work closely with the HRBP and site leadership to understand business goals and workforce needs.
Support projects in labor relations, staffing models, and workforce planning.
Provide HR insights to help drive operational excellence and continuous improvement.