Human Resources Generalist

Adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most‑visited national park in the country, Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, provides an amazing work environment with refreshing mountain breezes and spectacular views of the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains. As a member of the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort team, you will meet and engage with guests who have arrived to enjoy all the Great Smoky Mountains have to offer and help them experience our world‑class amenities such as the state‑of‑the‑art Wild Bear Falls water park.

About the role

The HR Generalist provides comprehensive support to the Human Resources department by assisting in the execution of a wide range of HR functions and operational activities. This role contributes to the effective delivery of HR services, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and compliance with applicable policies and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Partner with management to resolve complex team member relations matters, including conflict resolution, formal investigations, disciplinary actions, grievance procedures, and collaboration with union representatives when applicable.
• Independently lead team member relations investigations, ensuring timely and effective resolution, including the preparation of applicable documentation in adherence with established protocols.
• Collaborate in responding to formal inquiries from regulatory bodies such as the EEOC and the Department of Labor.
• Interpret and ensure consistent application of employment laws and company policies, including FMLA, FLSA, EEO, and ADA, while advising leadership on compliance matters and risk mitigation strategies.
• Function as a strategic partner to cross‑functional departments (benefits, payroll, leave administration) to proactively address team member concerns and coordinate key processes such as benefit enrollment and leave management.
• Support the administration and resolution of workers’ compensation claims.
• Ensure documentation and recordkeeping practices meet internal HR protocols and regulatory requirements.
• Represent the company in unemployment claims processes, including preparation of documentation and participation in hearings as necessary.
• Plan and execute employee engagement programs such as the Westgate Foundation events, Wellness Fair, and Customer Service Week, in alignment with organizational culture and engagement goals.
• Lead or support corporate HR initiatives, including I‑9 compliance audits, policy updates, and internal process reviews.
• Design, deliver, and assess training programs for team members and management to support performance improvement, regulatory compliance, and professional development.
• Support the year‑end performance review processes in partnership with department leadership, ensuring alignment with performance expectations and company timelines.
• Provide expert‑level coaching and guidance to leaders and team members on performance management, employee engagement, and career development planning.
• Oversee and support HR operational functions as needed, ensuring smooth administrative operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or related field.
• Professional HR certification (e.g., SHRM‑CP or PHR) preferred.
• 2–5 years of progressive experience in the human resources field.
• Experience in hospitality or timeshare industry preferred.
• Knowledge of employment law and HR best practices.
• Ability to build trust and maintain strong relationships at all levels of the organization.
• Strong knowledge of employment laws and regulations.
• Ability to pass a background screen, drug test, and prove eligibility to work in the United States.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Benefits – Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Paid Time Off – Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time to Recharge
• Paid Holidays
• 401(k) with generous company match
• Daily Pay – Access your earnings when you need them
• Family‑focused benefits – Pregnancy, Parental Leave, and Adoption Assistance
• Wellness programs to support your well‑being
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Tuition assistance to help you grow your career
• Military leave
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Support when you need it most
• Life, Disability, Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Insurance
• Pet insurance for your furry family members
• Loyalty program – Exclusive discounts on hotels, cruises, resorts, restaurants, entertainment, and more
• Low‑cost gym membership
• David A. Siegel Legacy Scholarship – Up to $40,000 for team members’ dependents after 1 year of service
• Career growth and advancement opportunities
• Community involvement – Give back and make an impact