Human Resources Generalist

HEAL THE BAY • Santa Monica, CA

41d • Hybrid

About The Position

Heal the Bay is seeking a Human Resources Generalist to serve as the backbone of their people, culture, and work environment. This strategic leadership role empowers the team to focus on protecting Southern California's coastal waters. Reporting to the Chief Operations Officer, the Generalist will collaborate with Finance, Data, and Administrative teams to lead the HR function for approximately 40 staff across the main office and the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. The role requires a blend of strategic HR leadership, people-centered service, technical HR expertise, and strong organizational capabilities.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years+ of progressive HR generalist experience, with a focus on strategic management and leadership.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Proficiency and working knowledge of HR systems, operations.
• Strong foundational knowledge of federal, California state, and local employment laws and compliance requirements.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and a strong technical acumen.
• Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience or background in a non-profit or similar environment.
• Familiarity with Salesforce or similar CRM systems and their application in HR reporting.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a lead/primary point of contact for employees regarding all HR issues, including general HR inquiries, hiring, disciplinary action, terminations, leaves, workers’ compensation claims, complaints.
• Help support and facilitate performance management for the organization, including disciplinary action.
• Conduct investigations, as needed, and assist in addressing grievances, facilitating conflict resolution, and guiding disciplinary actions in accordance with organizational policy.
• Lead the onboarding process for new hires, including background checks, orientation and initial training, while also managing exit interviews and transition procedures.
• Collaborate with hiring managers to support recruitment process, including job description development, posting, applicant screening, and interview scheduling.
• Implement and support professional development initiatives and employee retention strategies, ensuring equitable access to training opportunities.
• Ensure adherence to federal, state, and local employment laws, including record-keeping, training, and reporting requirements.
• Oversee accurate timekeeping, payroll coordination, and employment-related recordkeeping in partnership with Finance, ensuring ADP Workforce Now processes and staff practices comply with federal, California state, and local wage and hour requirements.
• Lead special projects and operational initiatives as assigned, enhancing overall HR effectiveness and efficiency.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement contributions, and paid time off.
• Heal the Bay covers 90 percent of employee medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums.
• Full-time employees are also eligible for life insurance and participation in the organization’s Simple IRA retirement plan.
• Employees receive paid vacation and Heal the Bay recognized holidays in accordance with organizational policy.
• In accordance with California labor law, employees are eligible to accrue and use up to 72 hours of paid sick leave per calendar year after completing 30 days of employment.

What This Job Offers

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