HR Associate

At Global Market Foods (GMF), we have united eight industry-leading importers and distributors under one dynamic company with a shared mission: to deliver authentic, high-quality international foods that honor global culinary traditions. With decades of experience, each GMF division plays a vital role in preserving the heritage and flavors of the regions they represent:

• Ziyad Brothers – Leaders in Middle Eastern specialty foods

• Global Choice Foods – Experts in South Asian and Indian products

• Vintage Foods – Providers of Turkish and European specialties

• Indo-European Foods – Trusted source for European specialty products

• Sunburst Foods – Specialists in African and Caribbean foods

• Sahadi Fine Foods – Pioneers in Middle Eastern specialty products

• Asli Fine Foods – Purveyors of authentic South Asian and Middle Eastern staples

• UBC Distributors – Distributors of premium global food brands

Together, we offer an extensive portfolio of over 7,000 products across 8 divisions, meeting the growing demand for diverse, global flavors. GMF is committed to providing customers with unparalleled access to authentic international brands, exceptional service, and innovative food solutions. With a deep respect for culinary traditions and a passion for excellence, we continue to expand our reach, ensuring the rich flavors of the world are always within reach.

At GMF, our culture is rooted in family values—supporting our teams with the same dedication we bring to our business. As we enter a period of rapid growth and transformation, we are seeking a (position) to help drive our vision forward and contribute to our continued success.

Job Description

The HR Generalist supports the daily operations of the Human Resources department for all U.S Global Market Foods (GMF) locations, including Illinois, Texas, California, and New Jersey. This role provides hands-on support in HRIS management, recruiting, onboarding, benefits, payroll preparation, compliance, and HR reporting. The HR Generalist ensures consistent, accurate, and efficient HR service delivery while maintaining compliance across all locations.

Essential Role Functions

• HRIS Management: Maintain and manage the HRIS (Paycom) to ensure employee records are accurate and current. Process personnel transactions such as new hires, terminations, promotions, transfers, and compensation updates. Generate reports and assist in HR data audits.

• Recruiting & Onboarding: Post job openings, schedule interviews, coordinate candidate communication, and support new hire onboarding. Complete new hire process, I-9 verification, and system setup; organize and facilitate new hire orientations.

• Employee Records Administration: Maintain organized and confidential employee files in compliance with company standards and legal requirements.

• Benefits Administration: Support employee benefits processes, including enrollments, qualifying life events, and COBRA notifications.

• Payroll & Timekeeping Support: Audit timecards for accuracy, monitor attendance issues, and prepare payroll data for review and processing.

• Compliance & Reporting: Maintain compliance documentation such as OSHA logs, and policy acknowledgments. Assist with HR audits, documentation requests, and compliance consistency across states.

• Safety, Training & Development Coordination: Schedule HR and compliance training sessions, manage attendance tracking, and maintain training records.

• Assist in managing and tracking workplace incidents and accident reports across all locations.

• Support investigations by gathering witness statements, photos, and documentation.

• Maintain OSHA 300 and 300A logs in coordination with HR Managers.

• Assign and monitor completion of Alchemy safety training for employees, ensuring timely follow-through and documentation.

• Support HR Managers and Operations in promoting workplace safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

• General HR Administrative Support: Collaborate with HR Managers across IL, TX, CA, and NJ on department initiatives and documentation consistency.

• Other HR Duties as Assigned: Provide additional HR support as needed to assist with departmental projects, process improvements, or emerging HR priorities.

Work Experience/Requirements for This Role

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).

• Experience: 3–5 years of HR generalist or coordinator experience; multi-state or manufacturing/distribution environment preferred.

• Technical Skills: Proficiency in HRIS systems (Paycom strongly preferred), Microsoft Office, and Google Workspace.

• Knowledge: Working understanding of HR practices and employment regulations (EEO, FMLA, ACA, I-9, and wage & hour laws).

• Soft Skills: Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive; strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to handle confidential information and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Bilingual (Spanish/English)

Schedule

• Days: Monday to Friday (flexibility on weekends if required).

• Hours: 8 AM to 4:30 PM (flexibility as needed).

• Work Location: Bolingbrook, IL

• Travel: Some Travel to assigned facilities is required.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching

• Dental insurance

• Disability insurance

• Health insurance

• Life insurance

• Paid time off

• Parental leave

• Tuition reimbursement

• Vision insurance

Global Market Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer