Human Resources Generalist

Base pay range

$40.00/hr - $50.00/hr

Location: Lake Forest, IL (Hybrid)

Reports to: VP of Human Resources

A reputable higher education institution based in the North Shore suburb of Lake Forest, Illinois, committed to academic excellence, inclusion, and community engagement. The campus serves a diverse population of faculty, staff, and students from around the world and is known for its collaborative, supportive culture.

The organization is seeking a proactive and experienced HR Generalist (or HR Manager) to support employee relations, compliance, and other key HR functions. This is a part‑time opportunity to start and offers the potential to transition into a full‑time, contract‑to‑hire opportunity based on performance and evolving business needs.

The ideal candidate brings a strong HR foundation, positive energy, and a hands‑on work ethic—ready to take ownership of day‑to‑day HR matters and contribute to ongoing HR projects.

• Serve as a trusted advisor to employees and managers on HR policies, employee relations, and compliance matters.
• Manage employee relations investigations, documentation, and conflict resolution with professionalism and confidentiality.
• Support HR compliance, including policy interpretation, employment law updates, and adherence to institutional policies.
• Assist with immigration‑related administrative processes, including documentation and coordination for international employees and students.
• Contribute to various HR initiatives and special projects as assigned by the VP of HR.
• Support onboarding, offboarding, and HRIS data integrity as needed.
• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records in accordance with organizational policies and applicable regulations.

• 5–7 years of progressive HR experience with a strong focus on employee relations and compliance
  .
• Exposure to immigration administration and related processes (experience in higher education or global workforce environments preferred).
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively across diverse employee groups.
• Highly organized and detail‑oriented with strong judgment and discretion.
• Proactive, adaptable, and collaborative work style—comfortable wearing multiple hats in a small HR team.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• Familiarity with employment laws and regulations applicable in Illinois.
• Must be able to commute to Lake Forest, IL (North Suburbs preferred).

• Potential: Opportunity for full‑time conversion based on performance and departmental needs.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a collaborative, mission‑driven HR team within a respected educational environment. You’ll have the chance to make an immediate impact, work closely with senior leadership, and grow into a broader role as the HR function evolves.

Mid‑Senior level

Contract

Human Resources

Higher Education