Jr. HR Generalist

Universal Ingredients Innovative Plant-Based Solutions for Global Industries Universal Ingredients is a global supplier of high-quality, plant-based specialty ingredients for human and pet consumption. With thousands of products and global sourcing capabilities, we provide customized, value-added solutions - including fruit and vegetable juices and concentrates, dehydrated ingredients, botanical extracts, flavors, and beverage systems - for food and beverage manufacturers worldwide. Our advanced production capabilities, including aseptic beverage processing and flexible packaging solutions, enable safe, shelf-stable products with no preservatives. At the heart of our innovation is our Application Capabilities Lab, where food science experts collaborate with customers to develop market-ready solutions through product development, flavor analysis, sensory testing, and commercialization support. Driven by innovation, sustainability, and partnership, Universal Ingredients helps customers stay ahead of evolving consumer preferences while delivering consistent quality, functionality, and performance across global markets. Job Description For: Junior HR Generalist Division/Department: Administration/ Human Resources Location: Grandview, WA Job Title: Junior HR Generalist Reports To: Human Resource Generalist Type of Position: Full-Time, Hourly ($27.69-$34.62) Competitive benefit package Annual wage review based on individual performance. Company-sponsored bonus package dependent upon individual and company performance. GENERAL DESCRIPTION The Junior Human Resources Generalist is responsible for performing human resource-related duties at a professional level and works closely with the HR Generalist. This position carries out responsibilities in the following functional areas: recruiting, onboarding, wage slipping, step progressions, core comp record keeping, benefits and leave administration. Responsible for data reporting, safety, job description updating and development, employee labor relations, training, and maintenance of employee information. In this position, you will perform duties of a highly confidential nature that require discretion and judgment, as well as a broad and comprehensive knowledge of HR functions including the development and implementation of HR policies and procedures, and operations. May act as backup for the HR/Payroll Specialist with activities such as payroll administration and processing and attendance administration. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Develops, facilitates, and implements all phases of the recruitment process. Assists with the interview process, attending and conducting interviews with managers, directors, and other stakeholders. Collaborates with hiring managers to determine the top candidates for further interviews or final selection and makes recommendations based on the evaluation process. Identifies and implements efficient and effective recruiting methods and strategies based on the available role, industry standards, and the needs of the organization. Track hiring metrics including time-to-hire, time-to-fill, and source of hire. Attends and participates in job fairs and recruiting sessions. Ensures all new hires have a smooth transition into the organization after orientation. Acts as the primary point of contact for various benefit programs, orientations and providing day to day administration. Provides accurate information regarding benefit plans and policies. Responsible for maintaining, updating, enhancing, and developing the new hire/orientation. Inputs and maintains all benefits related information for all employees in the appropriate systems. Ensures the accuracy of all data including third party vendor systems. Performs monthly benefit audits. Works with benefit vendors to resolve issues; enrolling/terminating benefits of employees, benefit claim disputes, and working in concert with HR Generalist to ensure efficient benefit operations. Administers various leave of absence programs including FMLA, WPFML, and any other state and federal leave. Maintains accurate records of employee information in ADP. Assists with day-to-day questions and updates to ADP system. Performs various administrative and support functions in support of department operations including scheduling and preparation of correspondence. Gather, process, verify, and maintain employee files throughout the department from pre-employment to post-termination as requested. Supports the development of a positive safety culture by engaging in safety initiatives and assisting with the planning and coordination of safety events. Maintains and monitors safety observations/inspections forms in Flowy (system used for incident reporting and tracking). Facilitates and communicates organizational policies and programs and ensures labor law and regulatory compliance are all up-to-date and posted in a designated area. Assists with the delivery of handout material, creating visual aids, and preparing presentations. Provide first-class customer service and support to employees, visitors, and customers. Willingness and eagerness to learn and take on additional duties within HR. Participates in the planning, coordination, and successful execution of company events and initiatives Handles other duties and special projects as assigned. WORK EXPERIENCE AND PERSONAL SKILL REQUIREMENTS Proficient in using Microsoft Office (word, excel, outlook). Effective decision-making and problem-solving skills to ensure consistency with standards, practices, policies, procedures, regulations, and/or laws. Exceptional attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy. Excellent time management skills Proactive and independent with the ability to take initiative. Follow through with projects from start to completion. Ability to work independently and cooperatively as a team. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. Reliable and willing to work occasional weekends/holidays as required. Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus. EDUCATION/MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Associate degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field plus two to three years of HR experience. Bachelor's degree in human resources, Business, or related field preferred Good understanding of general HR practices and employment regulations. Experience with HRIS systems. Equal Opportunity Employer. All employees are subject to pre-employment drug testing.

Created: 2026-03-10