Human Resources Generalist (HRG)

Argonne National Laboratory • Lemont, IL

7d • $75,750 - $118,170 • Hybrid

About The Position

As a member of the Human Resources Services (HRS) organization, the HR Generalist provides both operational and strategic human resources support. This role primarily supports the Physical Sciences and Engineering Directorate at Argonne National Laboratory while also contributing to laboratory-wide HRS initiatives and participating in special projects. The HR Generalist partners closely with managers and employees to implement HR programs and initiatives that enhance organizational effectiveness, strengthen workforce engagement, and ensure consistent application of policies and compliance with applicable requirements. The HR Generalist supports multiple HR practices including performance management, organizational change, compensation planning, employee relations, workforce planning, and talent management, while strengthening HR communications and ensuring consistent application of policies and procedures. This role requires a high degree of confidentiality, sound judgment, discretion, accuracy, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a complex research environment. Working under the direction of the Directorate Human Resources Manager, the HR Generalist performs responsibilities that include, but are not limited to, the following: Serve as an HR liaison to employees and managers by providing consultation and guidance on a broad range of HR matters, ensuring consistent application of HR policies and practices, focused on a tactical perspective. Analyze and synthesize HR data and workforce metrics to identify trends, inform recommendations, and support resolution of workforce and organizational opportunities. Partner with hiring managers to support workforce planning and recruitment strategies, including development of job descriptions, compensation recommendations, and guidance on hiring approaches. Advise managers on employee relations matters in partnership with Employee Relations, performance management issues, and workplace concerns, ensuring alignment with organizational policies and legal requirements. Support cyclical HR programs such as performance appraisal processes, talent reviews, merit planning, promotions, and compensation adjustments. Participate in HR projects and process improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, service delivery, and the overall employee experience. Assist in developing and implementing communication and change management strategies related to new or updated HR policies, procedures, and programs. Support laboratory and directorate recognition and rewards programs that reinforce organizational values and employee engagement. Maintain accurate and well-organized electronic and physical HR records in accordance with applicable policies, confidentiality standards, and regulatory requirements. Assist in providing leadership, coordination, and guidance to directorate support staff to ensure effective administrative and operational support. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on building client relationships and bringing HR’s value to life by aligning customer needs with impactful people solutions. Because many of our clients are onsite advancing important scientific work, this position follows a hybrid schedule with the flexibility to work remotely up to two days per week.

Requirements

• Knowledge of HR practices and administration including applicable employment laws
• Ability to interpret and implement Argonne’s Human Resources, Laboratory and Division policies and procedures
• Demonstrated skills in communicating effectively orally and written, while using tact and discretion and developing interpersonal relationships and handling conflicts
• Ability to interact confidently with Division Directors, Line Managers, the HR team and the directorate’s administrative support team to facilitate solutions to presented requests
• Ability to discreetly handle a variety of sensitive information and human resources matters
• High level of accuracy and the ability to pay attention to detail along with strong problem-solving skills
• Ability in handling multiple tasks to accurately manage conflicting priorities, and to meet commitments
• Ability to collaborate with internal and external partners to achieve goals and create solutions
• Must be highly proficient in Microsoft Office suite including Word, Outlook and Excel
• Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork
• To perform the essential functions of this position successful applicants must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, which is required to comply with federal regulations and contract
• PA3: Bachelors and 4+ years of HR experience (combination of multiple functions, generalist and/or business partner), or a Masters and 2+ years, or equivalent.
• PA4: Bachelors and 6+ years of HR experience (combination of multiple functions, generalist and/or business partner), or a Masters and 4+ years, or equivalent.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of Workday or similar HRIS preferred
• Education in Human Resources discipline or related, and certification as an HR Professional is highly desirable

Responsibilities

• Serve as an HR liaison to employees and managers by providing consultation and guidance on a broad range of HR matters, ensuring consistent application of HR policies and practices, focused on a tactical perspective.
• Analyze and synthesize HR data and workforce metrics to identify trends, inform recommendations, and support resolution of workforce and organizational opportunities.
• Partner with hiring managers to support workforce planning and recruitment strategies, including development of job descriptions, compensation recommendations, and guidance on hiring approaches.
• Advise managers on employee relations matters in partnership with Employee Relations, performance management issues, and workplace concerns, ensuring alignment with organizational policies and legal requirements.
• Support cyclical HR programs such as performance appraisal processes, talent reviews, merit planning, promotions, and compensation adjustments.
• Participate in HR projects and process improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, service delivery, and the overall employee experience.
• Assist in developing and implementing communication and change management strategies related to new or updated HR policies, procedures, and programs.
• Support laboratory and directorate recognition and rewards programs that reinforce organizational values and employee engagement.
• Maintain accurate and well-organized electronic and physical HR records in accordance with applicable policies, confidentiality standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Assist in providing leadership, coordination, and guidance to directorate support staff to ensure effective administrative and operational support.

Benefits

• comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.
• Click here to view Argonne employee benefits!
• As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation.
• Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment.
• Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level