Princeton University
Human Resources Generalist
115 Alexander St, Princeton, NJ 08540
On-site · Full-time · $85k–$95k (as posted)
First seen by offpeak October 6, 2026
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Overview
The HR Generalist plays a critical role in fostering positive employee relations, strengthening client partnerships, and supporting organizational effectiveness initiatives. Reporting to the Associate Director within Talent Management, this position serves as a trusted advisor to managers and employees, providing guidance on a broad range of human resources matters, including employee and labor relations, performance management, policy interpretation, conflict resolution, training and development, and compliance. As a member of a cross-functional HR team, the HR Generalist collaborates closely with all levels of management to develop and implement people-focused solutions that support business objectives, enhance employee engagement, and promote a productive and inclusive work environment.
Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
- Provide expert guidance and recommendations to managers and employees on HR policies, procedures, and employment-related matters.
- Conduct timely, thorough, and objective workplace investigations with general supervision, providing guidance, and implementing recommendations appropriately.
- Advise managers on performance management and progressive discipline processes in accordance with University policy and applicable bargaining agreements.
- Facilitate conflict and dispute resolution to ensure fair, consistent, and equitable treatment of employees.
- Provide guidance to client groups to ensure the consistent, uniform, and fair application of University policies and procedures.
- Mitigate organizational risk by ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
- Stay current on labor and employment law developments, legal trends, and regulatory changes that may impact HR practices.
- Partner with University Learning and Development team to design and deliver training and development solutions that address organizational and workforce needs.
- Collaborating with HR partners across accommodations, benefits, compensation, HRIS and talent acquisition to provide comprehensive employee solutions.
- Support the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of HR policies, programs, processes, and tools related to performance management, employee engagement, communications, and relationship building.
- Process and administer HR transactions and employee lifecycle activities as needed.
- Participate in strategic HR initiatives, campus-wide projects, committees and cross-functional working groups.
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.
Qualifications
Required:
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Minimum of three (3) years of progressive Human Resources experience
- Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to effectively present information and facilitate discussions with small and large groups.
- Working knowledge of HR principles, employment laws, regulations, and best practices, with emphasis on employee relations.
- Familiarity with organizational development, talent management, and workforce effectiveness principles.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, HRIS systems and data analysis tools.
- Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and handle complex employee relations issues with professionalism and discretion.
- Demonstrated ability to build credibility and maintain effective working relationships across all levels of the organization.
- Strong collaboration, consultation, and influencing skills, with the ability to work independently and effectively partner with stakeholders in a customer-focused environment.
- Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to work.
- Proven success managing multiple projects and competing priorities while maintaining high-quality outcomes and meeting deadlines.
Preferred:
- HR certification (PHR, SPHR / CP, SCP, DDI) or equivalent.
- Experience in higher education and labor relations.
- Experience supporting unionized employee populations and interpreting collective bargaining agreements.
Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.
If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.
The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.