Human Resources Generalist

Madewell

106d

About The Position

The HR Generalist is a key partner in supporting our Distribution Center associates and leaders by providing day-to-day employee relations guidance, coaching, and HR expertise. This role serves as the first point of contact for associate concerns, workplace issues, and policy interpretation, while also ensuring fair and consistent application of company standards. The HR Generalist conducts investigations, supports performance management, and helps drive a positive associate experience through approachability, professionalism, and sound judgment. In addition to core employee relations work, the HR Generalist partners with leaders on development, assists with training and culture-building initiatives, and provides support across the full scope of HR activities within the DC environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent work experience required.
• 3–5+ years of HR experience, with a strong focus in employee relations and performance management.
• Proven experience conducting investigations and coaching managers through associate issues.
• Skilled at de-escalating emotionally charged situations with professionalism and care.
• Strong working knowledge of labor laws, workplace policy, and best practices in a non-union environment.
• Prior experience in a distribution, manufacturing, or warehouse setting preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Solid understanding of employee relations, performance management, and conflict resolution.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws (FMLA, ADA, FLSA, EEOC, etc.).
• Experience with HRIS systems (payroll, timekeeping, benefits, applicant tracking).
• Familiarity with safety and compliance standards in a distribution/warehouse environment.
• Ability to build trust and credibility with associates and leaders across all levels.
• Strong interpersonal skills for coaching, mediation, and difficult conversations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for policies, investigations, and training materials.
• Strong attention to detail while managing sensitive employee data and documentation.
• Sound judgment and decision-making in fast-paced, people-focused situations.

Responsibilities

• Act as the first point of contact for day-to-day employee relations matters across the distribution center, including conflict resolution, workplace behavior issues, and policy interpretation.
• Conduct timely, thorough, and fair investigations into complaints, policy violations, and workplace incidents.
• Coach and support leaders on performance management, including progressive discipline and creation of performance improvement plans.
• Partner with leaders to deliver effective, documented feedback and support associate development.
• Lead or support difficult associate conversations related to behavior, attendance, or performance.
• Monitor ER trends and provide proactive support and training to leaders to prevent recurring issues.
• Help drive a positive associate experience by ensuring fairness, consistency, and approachability in all HR touchpoints.
• Assist in other generalist duties as needed, including but not limited to internal associate needs, on-call support, HR events, communications, and culture-building efforts.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees