HR Generalist

About the Company

Imperial, founded in 1939 and headquartered in Worcester, MA, is a leading privately held distributor of supermarket non-foods. We help our partners grow smarter and stronger by offering unmatched product selection, customized programs, and expert retail support across health and beauty care, seasonal items, and general merchandise categories. With more than 700 associates and a state-of-the-art distribution center, Imperial serves chain and independent retailers across 22 states. Our mission prioritizes people, embraces change, and fosters growth, while our vision is to redefine partnership with a lasting impact on our customers, communities, and the industry.

Responsibilities

• Handle employee relations and the development of team members, collaborating with managers as needed.
• Coach and mentor at the supervisory level.
• Interview new candidates, collaborate with hiring managers to identify ideal candidates, and communicate interview outcomes.
• Complete the full onboarding process, ensuring all required employment and benefits documentation is processed efficiently, including new hire orientation, drug testing, and background checks.
• Understand business goals and recommend new approaches, policies, and procedures to improve business objectives, processes, and technology.
• Assist employees with benefits-related questions and collaborate with the Benefits Coordinator.
• Conduct internal investigations and collaborate with the HR Manager on specific situations.
• Assist with company-wide events and programs (e.g., Annual Awards Banquet, Holiday Party, Multi-Cultural Day).
• Provide backup support to other Human Resources staff as needed.
• Create and drive effective development, employee relations, retention, and reward programs.
• Travel monthly to our second location in Millis, MA.
• Adjust hours monthly to connect with the 3rd shift.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 2–4 years of HR-related experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, HR, or a related field.
• PHR, SPHR, CP, or SCP certification preferred.
• Advanced computer skills, including Microsoft platforms and UKG HRIS.
• Self-motivated with strong initiative.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, including presenting in group settings.
• Effective time management, interviewing, and prioritization skills.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of labor laws, federal/state laws, and HR practices.
• Strong global and cultural awareness to support a diverse workforce.
• Ability to adapt in fast-paced, changing environments.
• Comfortable interacting with all organizational levels.
• Collaborative team player focused on a positive work environment.
• Solutions-oriented with the ability to identify and resolve issues.
• Strong internal and external customer service focus.

Benefits

• Opportunities for professional advancement in a growth-focused culture.
• Employee perks, including a discounted product store, food events, and summer food trucks.
• Comprehensive benefits: health, dental, vision, 401(k), bonus, and PTO.