Join the Movement: Human Resources Generalist
Location: Greater Chattanooga Area
Type: Full-Time | Exempt
Application Deadline: We’ll wait for the right one—maybe it’s you.
WHO WE ARE:
At Goodwill Industries of the Greater Chattanooga Area, we believe in second chances, bold dreams, and unstoppable potential.
We don’t just offer jobs. We ignite futures. We connect people to purpose. We aspire to help our neighbors rise, grow, and thrive—because we believe in a community where everyone can succeed, no matter their story.
If you’re passionate about people, inspired by impact, and driven by something bigger than yourself, you just might belong here.
WHO YOU ARE:
You’re someone who sees people—really sees them.
You understand that HR is more than policies—it’s possibility.
You bring structure, compassion, and a steady hand to moments that matter—from a first day to a hard conversation. You believe in culture as strategy, and in building something that feels as good as it functions.
You’re not just looking for your next job. You’re looking for your next mission.
You have 3+ years of Human Resources experience. HR certification (SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP) is a plus.
THE VIBE:
Our HR department, we laugh hard, work smart, extremely self-motivated, and stand tall in our values:
People. Integrity. Commitment. Continuous Improvement.
We support each other, celebrate wins big and small, and show up every day with a shared belief: that transforming lives starts right here—with us.
You’ll join a team that’s got your back, challenges you, and gives you the freedom to be authentically you.
WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE:
- A mission-driven environment where your work fuels the potential to change lives.
- The ability to influence culture, shape experiences, and elevate the voices that matter most—our people.
- A culture of growth—for you and for those we serve. We are a learning and growing organization who continues to learn through our experiences. We are not perfect; we are striving to be better.
- No-cost benefits for full-time employees like dental, vision, telehealth, and group basic life insurance, because we care for our team like we care for our mission.
THE BIG PICTURE:
This role is more than “HR.”
It’s heart.
It’s hope.
It’s human potential—unlocked.
READY TO STEP INTO SOMETHING MEANINGFUL?
If you light up while reading this, we want to meet you.
We don’t want to hire any HR Generalist; we want to hire someone excited to help others.
We welcome changemakers.
Apply today. Your future—and someone else’s—might just depend on it.
Job Description Below:
POSITION PURPOSE
The Human Resources Generalist will play a crucial role in supporting Goodwill Industries of the Greater Chattanooga Area’s (GIGCA) Mission, Vision, and Values through effective human resources management. This position involves maintaining confidentiality, serving as a point of contact for HR-related inquiries, and support various HR functions. The HR Generalist will foster a workplace culture that aligns with organizational guiding principles, ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations, and contribute to the continuous improvement of organizational effectiveness.
JOB FUNCTIONS
- Through words and actions support Chattanooga Goodwill’s Mission, Vision, and Values; furthermore, actions and decisions will align with organizational guiding principles.
- Maintain agency, employee, and participants confidentiality. Violation of confidentiality may be cause for termination.
- Employee Relations:
- Serve as a point of contact for employees regarding HR-related inquiries, policies, and procedures.
- Assist in implementing employee engagement initiatives to included but not limited to conducting and making actionable recommendations on exit interview based on data received, assisting in employee engagement survey and follow up on actionable items as directed, etc.
- Performance Management:
- Support managers during the employee performance evaluations process.
- Tracking performance management processes in Human Resources Information System (HRIS) to include feedback to management.
- Benefits:
- Assist in benefits administration, including employee enrollments, changes, and terminations.
- Assist in answering employee benefit questions.
- Recruitment & Onboarding:
- Assist in the recruitment process serving as back up by posting job openings, screening resumes, scheduling interviews and processing background checks.
- Coordinate with the HR Specialist and participate in new hire orientations and onboarding processes.
- Ensure compliance with all hiring procedures and policies.
- Assist in volunteer programs and temporary employment agencies as needed.
- Compliance & Recordkeeping:
- Ensure compliance with GIGCA policies/procedures, federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
- Assist in administration of leave programs to include but not limited to FMLA, Company Leave of Absence, short term disability, long term disability, etc.
- Maintain accurate and confidential employee records, both physical and digital formats.
- Assist with audits, employee surveys, and reporting as needed.
- Ensure DOT and company vehicle annual compliance.
- Participate in Pre-CARF and CARF accreditation process as needed.
- Other HR Support:
- Assist with various HR projects and initiatives to improve organizational effectiveness which may include inter-departmental work groups.
- Foster a workplace culture that supports Goodwill’s mission and values.
- Regular attendance is an essential function.
- May require travel to locations. Ability to work at any location while performing the essential functions of this position.
- Continuous learning and maintains compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, and recommended best practices; reviews policies and practices to maintain compliance; provides interpretation and guidance to location employees and managers.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
KEY KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Psychology, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
- Experience: 3+ years of experience in an HR role.
- Certification: SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP a plus.
- Knowledge & Skills:
- Comprehensive understanding of employment laws and regulations, with a focus in Tennessee and Georgia. Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on legal developments.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive situations with professionalism.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS software.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Valid Driver’s License, Car Insurance Verification, and good driving record required.
DIRECT REPORTS
PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS
- Maintain Confidentiality: Ensure all information is kept confidential with zero violations.
- Employee Relations: Serve as a reliable HR contact, assist in implementing engagement initiatives, and follow up on actionable items.
- Performance Management: Support managers with evaluations and track processes in HCMS.
- Benefits Administration: Assist with enrollments, changes, terminations, and respond to benefit questions accurately.
- Recruitment & Onboarding: Efficiently assist in recruitment, onboarding, and ensure compliance with hiring procedures.
- Compliance & Recordkeeping: Ensure compliance with policies and laws, maintain accurate records, and assist with audits and reporting.
- Other HR Support: Contribute to HR projects, foster a supportive workplace culture, maintain regular attendance, and engage in continuous learning.
By meeting these expectations, an HR Generalist ensures they add value to the organization, support employee success, and maintain a positive workplace culture.
