# HR Generalist (Leave Specialist)

> Mental Health Association - Western MA · Chicopee, United States · Full-time · Posted 2026-06-23

**Workplace:** on_site

**Department:** Human Resources

## Description

Under the supervision of the Director of Human Resources, the HR Generalist administers and supports a wide range of human resources programs and initiatives for all MHA employees. This role is responsible for providing employee support, coordinating onboarding-related compliance and employment documentation, including background check compliance, leave of absence administration, HRIS maintenance, and general employee support services. The HR Generalist serves as a key liaison between Human Resources and staff, ensuring consistent application of organizational policies and compliance with employment laws and regulations.

_**Schedule:**_ _Monday through Friday 9am - 5pm (40h), 100% on-site_

_**Pay range:**_ _$24- $26 per hour_

### **Essential Job Functions**

-   Coordinate onboarding compliance activities, including but not limited to, background check processing, fingerprinting coordination, and verification of completed new-hire requirements.

-   Serve as a point of contact for employee support inquiries, providing guidance on HR processes, policies, and required documentation.
-   Maintain working knowledge of local, state, and federal employment laws and support compliance across HR operations and practices.
-   Collaborate with managers to ensure fair and consistent HR practices, provide guidance on employee-related questions, and support a positive and compliant workplace environment.
-   Maintain ongoing HR compliance, prepare for external audits when scheduled, and implement follow-up actions to address any findings or recommendations.
-   Manage the onboarding of new hires in the payroll system and ensure HRIS records are accurate and up-to-date for all employees.

**Leave of Absence Administration**

-   Manage the full lifecycle of employee leaves of absence, including short-term, long-term, and intermittent leave, ensuring 100% compliance with company policy, state, and federal regulations (e.g., FMLA, ADA).
-   Coordinate and administer ADA accommodations and other legally mandated accommodations to support employees’ safe and timely return to work.
-   Ensure all leave requests are properly documented, tracked, and maintained in HR systems, including timely updates and accurate recordkeeping.
-   Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding leave policies, providing clear communication, guidance, and support throughout the leave process.
-   Collaborate with management, HR, and medical providers to evaluate and approve leave requests in alignment with legal requirements and organizational standards.
-   Monitor leave balances, deadlines, and return-to-work requirements, ensuring a seamless transition back to the workplace.

**Other Responsibilities**

-   Participate in administrative team meetings and support HR-related planning initiatives.
-   Carry out special projects and assignments as directed by the Director of Human Resources or senior leadership.

**Equal Opportunity Statement**

The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

## Requirements

-   Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
-   At least one year of experience working in a relevant human resources role preferred.
-   Highly detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy and consistency in HR records, processes, and compliance tasks.
-   Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
-   High degree of discretion and confidentiality.
-   Ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
-   Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
-   Proficient with Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and experience with HRIS and applicant tracking systems.
-   Commitment to professionalism

## Benefits

-   Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
-   Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
-   Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
-   Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
-   Long Term Disability

## Apply

[Apply at Mental Health Association - Western MA](https://apply.workable.com/mental-health-association-western-ma/j/E09FF68880/apply)

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