Description

COME FOR THE WORK. STAY FOR THE PEOPLE. MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Join the City of Lake Forest as its next Human Resources Generalist and play a key role on a dynamic, high-performing, innovative team. This position helps run the daily functions of Human Resources by empowering hundreds of employees through benefits administration, wellness initiatives, employee engagement efforts, and policy research and development. This is a great opportunity for someone with an HR background – or someone who is highly organized, has attention to detail, and can build quality relationships with colleagues.

Lake Forest is an organization that values diverse perspectives, open communication, innovation, and proactive people who anticipate and respond to questions before they are even asked. This position impacts every single department and employee - be part of something meaningful.

Examples of Duties:

• Maintain confidentiality and handle employment-related inquiries from applicants, employees, and supervisors, referring complex or sensitive matters to appropriate staff.
• Collaborate with department managers to identify required skills and competencies for open positions.
• Coordinate full-cycle recruitment processes, including job postings, applicant screening, interviews, background checks, drug screenings, and employee eligibility verifications.
• Conduct new hire orientations and implement onboarding and employee recognition programs.
• Manage employment records, including pre- and post-employment documentation, medical files, and drug screening results; oversee document imaging and records management.
• Administer and support employee benefits, including enrollment, termination, and responding to employee inquiries.
• Assist in processing workers’ compensation and liability claims.
• Support payroll processing, timekeeping, accounts payable, purchase orders, and compensation data.
• Monitor and document compliance with mandatory and optional training, certifications, licensure, and assessments (e.g., safety, anti-harassment, professional development).
• Assist in maintaining and updating HR content on the City website and internal Employee Intranet.
• Represent the HR Department on City-wide committees (Benefits, Activities) and coordinate employee engagement initiatives, including Chili Cookoff, Family Picnic, and Employee Recognition Dinner.
• Prepare and distribute HR-related communications, reports, and policy updates.
• Assist the HR Director in administering and interpreting policies and procedures; provide guidance on HR-related issues based on acquired knowledge and experience.
• Attend and participate in employee disciplinary meetings, terminations, and investigations.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations; stay informed on HR trends, best practices, and regulatory changes.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supplemental Information:

• Full Salary Range: $77,193 - $101,407
• Benefits: health, dental, vision, and life; vacation and sick leave; 13 paid holidays; employee assistance programs; and participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund pension.
• Hours Worked: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Flexibility may be provided based on successful performance during probationary period and in consultation with the HR Director.
• Recruitment Timeframe: open until filled.

The City of Lake Forest is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, disability, age, ethnicity, national origin, sex, gender, LGBTQ identification, family status, or military status.

Requirements

Qualifications:
Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required; equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 1 year of HR experience preferred; 3–5 years in HR environment desired.
• SHRM-CP certification is a plus.

Knowledge

• Solid understanding of employment-related laws, regulations, and HR best practices.
• Familiarity with modern office practices, procedures, and equipment.
• Working knowledge of HRIS and talent management systems (e.g., BS&A, NeoGov).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 and related software applications.