Human Resources Specialist

Location: Poughkeepsie, NY Position: Full-Time (Exempt) In PersonDepartment: Human ResourcesReports To: Director of Human ResourcesCompany OverviewChestnut Group is a trusted convenience retail brand, preferred fuels marketer and exceptional place to work in the tri-state area. The family-owned company owns and operates gas stations and convenience stores under the Chestnut Market brand and is a preferred supplier for premium fuel flags including Shell, Exxon Mobil and BP among others.The company has a growing portfolio of retail, wholesale and food service operations across the Northeast. Chestnut Group is focused on creating and delivering exceptional people-first convenience with care - every experience, every time. Come join our growing and passionate team!Position SummaryThe Human Resources Specialist supports the day-to-day HR operations of Chestnut Market across multiple retail and corporate locations. This role is responsible for administering employee relations support, benefits administration, leave management, workers' compensation coordination, onboarding support, HR compliance, and general employee support functions. The HR Specialist serves as a key resource for employees and managers while helping maintain consistent HR practices throughout the organization. This position is an in-person role based out of our support center and requires regular collaboration with employees, managers, and operational leadership teams.Our ValuesSafety - We protect the well-being of our people, partners, and communities.Quality - We deliver unmatched experiences and service.Unity - We collaborate to achieve shared goals.Integrity - We do the right thing, always.Responsibility - We take ownership of our work and outcomes.Respect - We treat everyone with dignity.Empowerment - We give people the tools to succeed.Love - We bring passion to everything we do.Our behaviors emphasize operating with excellence, creating welcoming environments, rewarding performance, communicating openly, staying accountable, and approaching challenges with a growth mindset. Key ResponsibilitiesOwn recruitment and onboarding of all new hiresAssist with policy implementation, HR communications, and employee engagement initiativesSupport daily HR operations for a multi-site retail workforceAssist employees and managers with HR-related questions, policies, and proceduresAdminister employee benefits programs including enrollments, changes, terminations, and employee communicationsManage workers' compensation claims, communication, and return-to-work coordinationAssist with employee relations matters, investigations, documentation, and corrective actionsSupport unemployment claims administration and employment verification requestsEnsure compliance with federal, state, and company employment regulations and policiesPartner with store management teams to support workforce needs and HR best practicesMaintain confidentiality of employee and always company informationMaintain employee records and HRIS data accuracy within ADP Workforce NowCoordinate and track leave administration including FMLA, disability, paid family leave, and related documentation Required Qualifications5+ years of Human Resources experience requiredBachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferredExperience supporting multi-location retail, hospitality, convenience store, or high-volume hourly environments preferredWorking knowledge of benefits administration, leave management, and workers' compensationExperience with HRIS systems; ADP Workforce Now experience strongly preferredFamiliarity of employment laws and HR compliance practicesStrong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skillsAbility to handle sensitive and confidential information professionallyProficiency in Microsoft Office Preferred SkillsSHRM-CP, PHR, or other HR certificationEmployee relations experienceLeave administration experience (FMLA/PFL/Disability)Workers' compensation coordinationMulti-state HR support experienceBilingual- Spanish preferred Compensation & BenefitsComprehensive health coverage401(k) with company matchGenerous paid time off (PTO)Professional development and growth opportunities