Habitat for Humanity International is hiring: HR Generalist in Chicago

Posting Description

Richmond Metropolitan Habitat for Humanity is seeking an HR Generalist.

Richmond Habitat is celebrating our 40th anniversary in 2026! Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, community, and hope. We envision a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

Job Purpose

The Human Resource Generalist will run the daily functions of the Human Resources (HR) department, including hiring and interviewing staff, administering pay, benefits, and leave, and guiding HR and volunteer policies and practices.

Job Functions

Essential

• Recruit, interview, and facilitate the hiring of qualified job applicants for open positions; collaborate with departmental managers and leadership to understand skills and competencies required for openings.
• Conduct staff onboarding, process criminal background checks and employee eligibility verifications, complete Forms I-9, verify I-9 documentation, maintain I-9 files, implement welcoming new hire orientations, and handle all first‑day details including schedules, nameplates, badges, work emails, and company swag. Support volunteer onboarding, training programs, and background checks as needed.
• Support the COO and VP of Finance and Administration in developing safety training, meetings, and initiatives.
• Research group professional development opportunities, training and mentoring programs, and investigate best practices. Establish and implement initiatives in partnership with departmental managers and leadership.
• Administer system changes related to enrollment, status changes, and terminations (e.g., Ease and Paychex). Respond to staff inquiries and issues related to insurance and retirement plans.
• Review benefit invoices to ensure accurate record‑keeping and proper deductions.
• Oversee Paychex time & attendance and paid leave requests for payroll.
• Handle employment‑related inquiries from applicants, employees, and supervisors, referring complex or sensitive matters to the appropriate staff.
• Attend and participate in employee disciplinary meetings, terminations, and investigations.
• Perform routine tasks required to administer and execute human resource programs, including but not limited to compensation and leave; performance and talent management; productivity, recognition, and morale; occupational health and safety; and training and development.
• Review, track, and document compliance with mandatory and non‑mandatory training, continuing education, and work assessments, such as safety training, anti‑harassment training, professional licensure, aptitude exams, and certifications.
• Lead RMHFH’s Engagement and Culture Committee (ECC). Partner with the chair and staff to ensure HR initiatives support RMHFH cultural values and action plan. Act as the point person for the committee and facilitate the annual engagement survey process.
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations; recommend best practices; review policies and practices to maintain compliance.
• Maintain knowledge of trends, best practices, regulatory changes, and new technologies in human resources, talent management, and employment law.
• Perform other duties or special projects as assigned.

Non‑essential

• Plan and schedule monthly staff meetings focused on meaningful content and opportunities to foster engagement and connection. Facilitate all staff‑related events, including holiday celebrations, retreats, team sports, and Fun Days.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Ability to build personal relationships based on connection, trust, and credibility; demonstrated self‑awareness, empathy, and a people‑centric approach; takes personal responsibility for decisions and actions; communicates with honesty and kindness and creates space for others to do the same.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time‑management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and delegate them when appropriate.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Thorough knowledge of employment‑related laws and regulations.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Proficiency with or quick ability to learn the organization’s HRIS and talent management systems.
• Exhibits passion for community building and making our world a better place.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.

Education / Experience

Required

• A bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field or equivalent training/direct experience.

Preferred

• Three (3) years of human resource management experience.
• HR Certification.

Benefits

Competitive compensation is commensurate with experience. The salary range is $61,913 to $74,978 for a 37.5 hour workweek. This position is a non‑exempt position. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including employer paid health, dental, and vision insurance; 403(b) match; 4 weeks paid time off; and extended holiday break.

How to Apply

Please send a complete resume and cover letter to ahansen@richmondhabitat.org. NO PHONE CALLS ACCEPTED.

Equal Opportunity Statement

HFHI is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to employ and assign the best qualified personnel for all our positions in a manner that does not unlawfully discriminate against any person because of race, color, religion, gender, marital status, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, veteran/reserve national guard status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.