HR Generalist

Crane Aerospace & Electronics supplies critical systems and components to the aerospace and defense markets. Our products operate in some of the toughest environments—from engines to landing gear, satellites to medical implants, and missiles to unmanned aerial systems. Located in West Caldwell, NJ, our facility specializes in industry-leading microwave components and systems for space, defense, and commercial applications, including GPS III satellites. With over 60 years of expertise, our Microwave group is a proven leader in military, communications, electronic warfare, radar, and satellite systems.

About the role

The HR Generalist serves as a key partner to leaders across designated client groups, providing hands-on human resources support in a dynamic manufacturing environment. This role delivers front-line guidance on employee relations, compliance, staffing, and workforce programs while collaborating closely with senior HR team members to drive consistent, fair, and development-focused HR practices. The HR Generalist manages non-exempt recruiting, oversees critical compliance activities, supports Workers’ Compensation and return-to-work processes, and contributes to organizational effectiveness through project-based initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary HR contact, responding to employee inquiries at all levels, resolving issues promptly, and maintaining strict confidentiality of all personnel information.
• Administer Workday processes including employee data management, reporting, and coordination of all employment actions (new hires, promotions, transfers, terminations, layoffs, payroll changes, etc.); lead New Hire Orientation.
• Manage employee relations issues in a manufacturing environment, ensuring fair and consistent application of policies and escalating concerns to HR leadership when necessary.
• Ensure compliance with internal and external programs such as ADA, FMLA, payroll audits, Workers Compensation, Return-to-Work, and organizational compliance training; coordinate directly with employees, leaders, and third-party providers.
• Oversee HR-led events (Open Enrollment, employee engagement events, service awards, philanthropy) and support project-based work related to efficiency, staffing, talent management, and organizational development.
• Maintain confidentiality and support additional tasks assigned by management to meet HR and business needs.
• Serve as HR/Leadership sponsor for the local Employee Activities Committee (non-essential function).

Requirements

• BS Degree in Business, Human Resources, or related field required; advanced degree strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with standard HR concepts, practices, and procedures, including applicable state and federal laws.
• Ability to handle highly confidential information with utmost integrity.
• Demonstrated strong MS Office skills (Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Excellent organizational, communication, interpersonal, and team facilitation skills.
• This position may require access to Controlled Data or Information; only US Persons will be considered. As a US Department of Defense contractor, we are bound by International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Applicants may be subject to a Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1+ years of HR Generalist experience and administrative experience preferred.

Working Conditions

• Standard office environment with substantial visual concentration on detail.
• Normal conditions for a manufacturing environment; may require the use of safety equipment (eye safety glasses, gowning, masks, hearing protectors, heel/wrist straps, and other PPE).
• May be exposed to unusual environmental conditions such as loud noises, cold temperatures, confined spaces, dust, or fumes.
• Ability to lift objects up to 25 lbs.
• Flexible and willing to work overtime if necessary.
• Standing: 10% | Sitting: 90%
• Workspace: Cubicle/Office

Benefits

• Health care, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance starting the first day of the month.
• 15 days of paid time off accruing from the first day, plus 12 paid holidays per year.
• 401k plan with company match.
• Education reimbursement eligible after 6 months of employment.

Pay

Salary range: $75,000 - $90,000. Several factors contribute to actual salary, including experience in a similar role or performing comparable job responsibilities, skills, training, and other qualifications. Some roles may be eligible for participation in performance-based bonus programs.