Human Resources Generalist

Knoxville, TN

At ESS our motto is, “Every day counts!” We take opportunities every day to grow and better our company as well as our employees.

 

OVERVIEW: The Human Resources Generalist supports compliant, efficient, and employee-focused HR operations by administering employment eligibility, unemployment claims, training and performance systems, employee records, reporting, engagement initiatives, and day-to-day HR services. This role partners with employees, managers, and external vendors to resolve inquiries, maintain accurate documentation, and strengthen the overall employee experience.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Employment Eligibility & Compliance

  • Own Form I-9 and E-Verify administration, including case monitoring, record retention, audit readiness, and timely resolution of Tentative Non-confirmations.
  • Advise and train managers and employees on employment-verification requirements, HR policies, and compliant practices.

Unemployment Claims & Employee Relations Support

  • Coordinate unemployment claims, hearings, and documentation with Paychex; represent the company as needed and ensure timely, accurate responses.
  • Respond to employee and manager inquiries, research issues, and escalate sensitive employee-relations matters appropriately.

Training & Performance Management

  • Administer Ethena and ClearCompany, including enrollments, assignments, completion tracking, evaluation cycles, access management, and user support.
  • Maintain accurate training and performance records and identify follow-up needs to support organizational compliance and effectiveness.

HR Operations, Reporting & Engagement

  • Manage the Corporate HR inbox and complete employment verifications, compensation letters, state-required separation notices, and other employee-lifecycle documentation.
  • Maintain accurate and confidential employee records and prepare recurring workforce reports, including monthly new-hire reporting and quarterly HR communications.
  • Support employee engagement initiatives, events, and cross-functional HR projects while identifying opportunities to improve processes and the employee experience.
  • Perform other HR responsibilities as assigned and maintain regular, reliable in-person attendance.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or related field
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Must interact well with others.
  • Ability to prioritize and multi-task.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Relevant experience in HR pertaining to policies, employment laws, and compliance issues.
  • Strong problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities.
  • High ethical standards and integrity, including confidentiality.
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills.
  • Background in high volume customer service.

 

ESS ADVANTAGES:

  • Health insurance (medical, dental, vision, disability, life)
  • 401(k)
  • PTO (sick, vacation, holidays, Mental health day, Volunteer time off)
  • Mileage reimbursement

 

 

About ESS & Employment Information

ESS specializes in placing qualified K–12 personnel in daily, long-term, and permanent school district positions, including substitute teachers, aides, and other school support staff. With more than 900 school district partners nationwide, ESS supports over 5.5 million students each day. Since 2000, ESS has helped improve student achievement while providing meaningful opportunities for passionate educators through flexible schedules, comprehensive training, benefits, and ongoing professional development. Learn more at ESS.com.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment: Physical requirements may vary by assignment and location and may include sitting, standing, walking, and regular use of hands and arms. Close vision may be required for computer and detail-oriented work. Work is typically performed in a moderate-noise environment, such as an office or school setting.

Equal Opportunity & Employment Eligibility: ESS is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where all employees can succeed. ESS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and E-Verify employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. ESS does not participate in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT extension programs and is unable to employ individuals whose work authorization is based solely on OPT or STEM OPT.

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