Human Resources Generalist

Location: Memphis, TN
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Chief Human Resources Officer

About Southern Avenue Charter School

Southern Avenue Charter School is a high-performing K–5 charter school in Memphis, TN, committed to nurturing academic excellence, equity, and whole-child development. We seek team members who are organized, collaborative, and committed to supporting a thriving school culture through strong operational and HR practices.

Position Summary

The Human Resources Generalist plays a vital role in supporting and executing key HR functions across the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, compliance, employee relations, and benefits administration. This role requires strong judgment, attention to detail, and a solutions-oriented mindset. The ideal candidate brings generalist experience, a deep understanding of HR operations, and the ability to adapt quickly—even without charter school or education-specific experience.

Key Responsibilities

Recruitment & Staffing

• Lead job postings, applicant screening, and coordination of interviews
• Partner with hiring managers to support equitable and efficient hiring processes
• Assist with reference checks, offer letters, and new hire paperwork

Onboarding & Offboarding

• Facilitate onboarding for new employees including background checks, licensure tracking, and system setup
• Conduct new hire orientations and ensure a smooth transition into the organization
• Coordinate offboarding logistics, including exit interviews and final pay documentation

Employee Relations & HR Support

• Serve as a first-line resource for employee questions related to policy, benefits, and workplace issues
• Support employee investigations and assist in documentation of performance concerns and coaching conversations
• Promote a positive and inclusive work culture aligned with school values

Benefits & Leave Administration

• Assist with benefits enrollment, qualifying life event changes, and open enrollment
• Track and process FMLA, parental leave, and other leave of absence documentation
• Liaise with insurance carriers and vendors as needed

Compliance & Records Management

• Maintain up-to-date employee records in the HRIS and ensure regulatory compliance
• Monitor certification and licensure renewals for instructional staff
• Assist with HR audits, policy updates, and handbook revisions

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• Minimum 2–4 years of HR generalist or similar experience
• Proficiency in HRIS systems (e.g., Paycom, ADP, UKG, etc.) and Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong knowledge of employment laws, benefits administration, and workplace best practices
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills

Preferred:

• PHR, SHRM-CP, or other HR certification
• Experience in a nonprofit, education, or public service setting
• Familiarity with state-specific compliance for educational staff (e.g., licensure, background checks)

Core Competencies