Summary:

The HR Generalist / Executive Assistant coordinates the Cooperative’s human resources programs while providing confidential administrative support to the CEO & General Manager and Board of Directors. The position supports the full employee lifecycle, employee relations, benefits, compliance, education, executive priorities, and board governance activities. The role requires independent judgment, discretion, strong organizational skills, and effective collaboration with employees, supervisors, leadership, and directors. Payroll processing may be assigned based on qualifications, training, and Cooperative needs.

 

Key Responsibilities

· Coordinate recruitment and hiring activities, including postings, applicant screening, interviews, reference checks, offers, and pre-employment requirements in partnership with supervisors.

· Manage employee onboarding, orientation, personnel transitions, offboarding, exit interviews, and retention and engagement initiatives.

· Advise supervisors on employee relations, acknowledgment, coaching, performance concerns, corrective action, and consistent application of policies; coordinate complaints, investigations, disciplinary meetings, and terminations with leadership and legal counsel as appropriate.

· Maintain job descriptions and coordinate annual performance reviews, compensation administration support, and employee recognition activities.

· Administer employee benefits, enrollment and open enrollment, employee education, and coordination with benefit providers.

· Coordinate workers’ compensation and disability claims, accident reporting, protected leave, accommodation processes, and return-to-work arrangements; maintain associated documentation and communications.

· Maintain confidential personnel and medical records, HR reporting, employee handbook, personnel policies, and procedures; coordinate review of Cooperative policies and bylaws with appropriate leadership.

· Coordinate required HR-related compliance documentation, safety records, and OSHA, DOT, and drug and alcohol requirements in partnership with operations and safety personnel; assist with compliance reviews and Emergency Response Plan updates as assigned.

· Coordinate employee and supervisor training, professional development, continuing education, certifications, and education records; communicate upcoming requirements and opportunities.

· Provide confidential executive support to the CEO & General Manager, including calendar and meeting coordination, correspondence, presentations, reports, communication with stakeholders, and follow-up on executive priorities.

· Prepare and distribute Board of Directors agendas, packets, correspondence, and meeting materials; record and maintain accurate minutes and confidential governance records.

· Coordinate board meetings, director communications, elections, travel, governance calendar, director education, registrations, and training records; assist with Annual Meeting and district conference preparations.

· Coordinate organizational meetings, events, document management, and special projects as assigned by the CEO & General Manager.

· Provide timely employee and benefits changes to payroll personnel; payroll processing or backup support may be assigned based on experience, training, and Cooperative operational needs.

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

· Working knowledge of employment law, employee relations, recruitment, benefits, leave administration, and HR compliance.

· Excellent judgment, confidentiality, communication, organization, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills; ability to work independently with sensitive employee, executive, and board matters.

· Proficiency with Microsoft Office and human resources information systems; familiarity with payroll systems is helpful but not required.

 

Physical Requirements & Work Environment (EEOC/ADA-Aligned)

This role is performed primarily in a professional office environment and requires the ability to perform the essential functions of the position

· Work involves regular use of a computer, telephone, and standard office equipment

· Requires the ability to communicate effectively in person, over the phone, and in writing

· May involve remaining in a stationary position for extended periods and occasional movement within the office

· Occasional lifting or moving of light materials (typically up to 20 pounds)

· Ability to participate in meetings, presentations, and group settings

· Occasional travel, including overnight stays, may be required for meetings, training, and conferences

· Work is generally performed during normal business hours; however, additional hours may be required to meet organizational needs

 

Education and Experience:

· Associate’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field and five or more years of relevant HR experience; bachelor’s degree preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

· Experience in an HR generalist or senior HR role, particularly recruitment and employee relations, preferred.

· Payroll processing and wage and hour knowledge preferred but not required.

· Valid driver’s license required.

 

Vernon Electric Cooperative is an Equal Opportunity Employer