HR Generalist

About Mesabi Metallics

When you join the team at Mesabi Metallics, you become part of a pioneering group advancing sustainable mining practices and driving innovation in the iron ore industry. Our commitment extends to providing a safe work environment, supporting environmental stewardship and generating value for all stakeholders. You will be joining us at a pivotal moment in Minnesota’s mining history:
Mesabi Metallics’ cutting‑edge iron ore mining and pelletization project is currently under construction. Once completed, it will mark the first new mine and pellet plant in Minnesota in nearly 50 years. More importantly, you’ll be immersed in a positive, supportive work environment that values your contributions and fosters your professional growth. Our culture is shaped by our core values which are sustainability, integrity, inclusivity, innovation, teamwork, determination and performance, and our employees are empowered to make a difference every day.

At Mesabi Metallics, you are part of a legacy of excellence, playing a key role in shaping the future of global infrastructure and industry.

The HR Generalist is a key member of the Human Resources team at Mesabi Metallics, based in Nashwauk, MN. Reporting directly to the General Manager – Human Resources, this role provides dedicated operational support to the Compensation & Benefits Specialist across the full spectrum of benefits administration and compliance activities, and extends similar support to the Talent Acquisition Specialist on recruitment coordination and onboarding.

The position is well‑suited for an HR professional with 5–10 years of experience who brings strong execution capability, sound knowledge of employment law and benefits operations, and a commitment to delivering accurate, timely HR service in a fast‑paced industrial environment. An MBA or equivalent with specialization in Human Resources is required.

Reporting to the General Manager – Human Resources, the HR Generalist will be responsible for the following:

• Serve as the first point of contact for employee benefits inquiries, resolving routine questions and escalating complex or plan‑design matters to the Compensation & Benefits Specialist.
• Process benefits transactions — enrollments, qualifying life event changes, and terminations — accurately in the HRIS and with carriers, under the guidance of the Compensation & Benefits Specialist.
• Support the annual open enrollment process through employee communications, scheduling, HRIS data entry, and helpdesk assistance.
• Administer leave of absence programs (FMLA, ADA, state leave) including documentation, manager notifications, and employee correspondence; elevate complex accommodation or plan interpretation matters to the Compensation & Benefits Specialist.
• Coordinate workers’ compensation claim reporting, maintain case documentation, and liaise between employees, management, and the insurance carrier.
• Reconcile monthly benefits invoices and flag discrepancies to the Compensation & Benefits Specialist and Finance for resolution.
• Maintain organized benefits records and ensure all enrollment documentation is complete, current, and audit‑ready.
• Educate employees on benefits programs, enrollment windows, and leave entitlements through structured communications and one‑on‑one support.

• Ensure HR practices comply with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws including FLSA, FMLA, ADA, Title VII, EEOC, MSHA, and OSHA regulations.
• Maintain and periodically update the employee handbook and HR policy library in line with legislative changes and organizational requirements.
• Prepare and submit mandatory compliance filings including EEO‑1, VETS‑4212, ACA reporting, and applicable Minnesota state submissions.
• Conduct periodic HR audits of employee files, I‑9 documentation, and HRIS data to ensure accuracy and compliance readiness.
• Manage the I‑9 and E‑Verify process for all new hires, ensuring documentation is completed accurately and retained per legal requirements.
• Monitor federal and Minnesota state employment law developments and…