Human Resources Benefits and Wellness Generalist

Human Resources GeneralistThe Human Resources Generalist performs professional and administrative work in all functional areas of the Human Resources Section, including staffing, benefits, wellness, and compliance. Location: DeFuniak Springs, FL Job Type: Full-Time Salary: Depends On Qualifications Closing Date: 3/27/2026 at 11:59 PM Central Time (US & Canada) QualificationsLevel I: Education High school diploma or equivalent Experience Two (2) years related experience Valid Driver License Preferred PHR or SHRM-CP Certification Level II: Education Associate degree in related field Experience Three (3) years related experience Valid Driver License Preferred PHR or SHRM-CP Certification Level III: Education Bachelor's degree in related field Experience Four (4) years related experience Valid Driver License Preferred Experience working with Employee Benefits, FMLA and Workers Compensation, PHR or SHRM-CP Certification Essential Job FunctionsAssist in the hiring process posts job openings, recruiting efforts, accept, review and respond to applications, communicate with applicants, schedule and prepare for interviews, draft offer letters, assist with applicant selection, coordinate pre-hire testing, polygraphs, drug screens, physicals, background checks, fingerprinting, prepare for and conduct new hire orientations, prepare necessary paperwork for payroll and benefits, input employee information into necessary systems, set up and manage electronic personnel files to ensure FDLE compliance. Assist in leave process handle workers' compensation claims, investigate accidents, prepare reports for insurance carriers, handle FMLA and other leave processes, communicate with employees and supervisors, schedule light duty assignments. Assist in compliance participate in planning, developing, recommending, implementing, revising, and improving human resources activities, policies, procedures, processes, documents, and programs. Assist in career development and recognition help plan development activities and training, prepare for awards ceremonies and other types of recognition, process incentives, service awards, and benefits programs to grow individuals to promote retention, engagement, and high-quality work function. Assist in benefits programs and communication communicates agency offered benefits to ensure employees are well-informed and able to utilize what is offered, assists in managing benefits programs to ensure accuracy and usability. Assist in compensation studies participates in surveys and conducts wage survey within labor market to determine competitive wage rate and remains apprised of current trends. Assist in maintaining accurate records updates and maintains all employment records such as insurance coverage and benefit elections, retirement plan, and personnel changes such as hires, promotions, transfers, and separations. Assist in out-processing ensure that when an employee separates from employment that the process is followed, may conduct exit-interviews. Assist in discipline and counseling assist supervisors with counseling and disciplinary actions including drafting letters, preparing Personnel Action Requests (PARs) and other forms necessary for proper documentation to remain incompliance with applicable laws and statues. Assist with Public Records Requests (PRRs) and verifications of employment gather requested documents to provide information kept in HR for PRRs and send to the Records Department for further processing, complete and return requests for employment verifications. Assist with Purchase Orders (POs) process POs and receipts in coordination with the Finance Department. Assist with all HR Department Communication manages emails and phone calls in a timely manner to maintain communication effectively, communicates effectively with team and all agency members. Other duties as assigned. Required SkillsHR Knowledge Preferred understanding of HR laws and regulations, proficiency in HR practices like recruiting, onboarding, benefits administration, performance management, and employee relations. Communication Skills strong written and verbal communication to effectively convey information and policies, ability to mediate conflicts and facilitate discussions. Interpersonal Skills building rapport with employees and fostering trust, maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information discreetly. Analytical Skills ability to analyze data and use it to make informed decisions and recommendations. Organizational Skills managing multiple priorities, tasks, and deadlines efficiently, maintaining accurate employee records and compliance documentation. Technology Proficiency experience with employee databases and programs that organize and house information, proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and other data processing tools. Key CompetenciesEthical Practice demonstrating integrity and ethical behavior in HR practices, ensuring decisions align with agency values and legal standards. Relationship Management building strong, collaborative relationships with employees, co-workers, managers, and external customers. Attention to Detail ensuring accuracy in payroll, benefits, compliance documentation, recognizing patterns or discrepancies in data or employee issues. Adaptability and Resilience responding effectively to changes in agency structure or strategy, managing unexpected challenges with composure and professionalism. Problem-Solving and Decision Making addressing employee concerns effectively and resolving workplace issues, making sound decisions under pressure. Reliability and Dependability consistently meeting deadlines and fulfilling responsibilities, demonstrating accountability in delivering high-quality work and supporting team efforts, being a trusted resource for employees and management alike. Physical RequirementsGeneral Mobility ability to sit for extended periods, occasional walking within the office or facility, potential need to stand for short periods, ability to bend body forward at the waist. Manual Dexterity frequent use of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment, ability to reach with arms. Visual and Auditory Requirements ability to read documents, emails, and computer screens, hearing and speaking ability to communicate effectively in person, over the phone, and in virtual meetings. Lifting and Carrying occasionally lift or carry items weighing up to twenty (20) pounds. Noise Level - ability to work and function in a shared office space with a moderate noise level and multiple personnel. Travel occasionally able to travel to attend job fairs, training sessions, conferences, or visiting other agency facilities. The Walton County Sheriff's Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Walton County Sheriff's Office will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. Veterans are encouraged to apply. Pursuant to applicable state and federal law, preference and priority shall be given to certain service members and veterans (including spouses and family members of such service members and veterans), and certain service members may be eligible for a waiver of post-secondary educational requirements as provided in Chapter 295, Florida Statutes.