The HR Generalist supports the daily Human Resources function for the Westin Michigan Avenue - Chicago, partnering closely with the Area Director of Human Resources and property leadership to ensure smooth operations, strong employee relations, and compliance with collective bargaining agreements and hotel standards.

Essential Responsibilities 

• Support day-to-day HR operations and assist the Area Director of HR with employee relations, coaching, investigations, and corrective actions.
• Coordinate full-cycle recruitment, interviews, onboarding, and separations for both union and non-union roles.
• Maintain accurate employee records, HRIS updates, payroll changes, and benefit administration.
• Interpret and support adherence to the collective bargaining agreement; assist leaders with contractual questions, grievances, and documentation.
• Partner with department leaders to promote engagement, training, reward/recognition programs, and service culture initiatives.
• Facilitate new hire orientation, compliance trainings, and departmental training needs.
• Respond to employee inquiries regarding policies, benefits, schedules, pay, and union-related matters.
• Prepare HR reports, maintain calendars, schedule interviews, and assist with hotel-wide communication.
• Recommend improvements to HR processes, policies, and service culture strategies.

Qualifications

• Hotel or hospitality HR experience strongly preferred; union hotel experience a plus.
• Bi-lingual in Spanish is preferred. 
• Strong knowledge of HR laws, CBA interpretation, and hotel labor standards.
• Skilled in recruitment, employee relations, documentation, and HR systems.
• Excellent communication, guest-service mindset, discretion, and ability to support a 24/7 operation.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain professionalism in a fast-paced environment.

Physical & Schedule Requirements

• Must be able to walk the property, stand for portions of the shift, bend, and lift up to 40 lbs.
• Primarily Monday–Friday; flexibility for weekends, early mornings, evenings, and emergencies based on hotel needs.