Human Resources Generalist

Business Professional and Paralegal Job Openings

Job Description - Human Resources Generalist (1670)

Firm Overview

Vinson & Elkins LLP (V&E) is one of the largest and most successful law firms with approximately 750 attorneys and 550 Business Professionals. With 11 offices worldwide, the firm is renowned for delivering exceptional client service. Its lawyers and professionals are committed to excellence, providing clients with expertise in transactions, investments, projects, and disputes globally. Since its founding in 1917, V&E has been a trusted advisor to many of the world’s leading businesses and investors.

Diversity and inclusion are core values at the firm, championed by top leadership and focused on creating meaningful solutions to attract, retain, and develop top talent. In 2023, V&E achieved Mansfield Rule 6.0 Certification, recognizing its commitment to considering at least 30% women, underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ lawyers, and lawyers with disabilities for leadership roles, equity partner promotions, client opportunities, and senior lateral positions.

Vinson & Elkins also is noted for its strong community involvement, pro bono work, and support for the arts and non-profit organizations. On average, V&E lawyers contribute 30,000 hours per year to those in need, demonstrating a deep commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.

Position Overview:

The Human Resources Generalist at Vinson & Elkins will play a crucial role in supporting the HR department's daily operations in the Austin office for attorneys and business professionals. This position will be involved in a wide range of HR functions, including: recruitment, employee relations, performance management, policy interpretation and administration, benefits administration, compliance with state and federal employment laws, and other duties as necessary to ensure the Human Resources function runs smoothly in the Austin office.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of HR practices and the ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism, discretion, and good judgement. This position sits on the Texas Regional HR team and works under the guidance of the Associate Director of Human Resources – Texas Region.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Human Resources Inquiries and Employee Relations:
   • Serves as the primary point of contact in the Austin office for all Human Resources inquiries.
   • Works with the Associate Director of Human Resources – Texas Region, to investigate and resolve employee complaints.
   • Works closely with managers on employee relations issues, including the performance improvement and disciplinary process and/or termination processes.
   • Conducts business professional exit interviews, identifying reasons for employee turnover, analyzing trends, and communicating to the appropriate business group(s) and leadership.
2. Employee Engagement, Culture, and Well-Being:
   • Promotes an engaging work environment by partnering with the Austin Office Administrator and the Senior Office Coordinator to assess and implement opportunities that further develop a positive office culture, with diversity, equity, and inclusion at the forefront.
   • Champions programs and initiatives to support employee well-being, including mental health resources, wellness programs, and work-life balance initiatives.
   • Coordinates various on-site activities throughout the year, such as Business Professional Appreciation week, Flu Shots, Health Screenings, and any other events as deemed fit.
3. Recruitment and Hiring:
   • Partners with the business professional recruiting team in the different phases of recruiting processes, including but not limited to: internal and external candidate review against firm openings, coordination of onsite interviews, and assisting through the offer process.
   • Coordinates the full hiring process of new employees and attorneys, conducting new hire orientations, completing I-9's, and coordinating other relevant meetings to ensure their smooth integration to the firm.
4. Performance Management and Development:
   • Coordinates the performance management process for assigned business professional groups, including reviewing annual performance management evaluations and providing guidance to managers.
   • Develops job descriptions in partnership with business groups and talent operations to ensure roles are updated and evaluated consistently.
5. Compliance and Documentation:
   • Stays up-to-date on legal and regulatory compliance in reporting and documentation for all recruitment, interviewing, hiring, disciplinary, and termination practices, as well as adherence to federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
   • Maintains accurate and confidential employment records, assisting with audits and reporting inquiries as requested.
6. Project Management and Analysis:
   • Frequently serves as a project lead for Human Resources projects, such as policy or procedure updates.
   • Analyzes relevant HR data to identify and determine causes of problems and develops recommendations for improvement.
7. Compensation and Benefits:
   • Collaborates with the Human Resources team and Talent Operations team to identify and resolve salary, pay grade or status issues.
8. Client Relationships:
   • Develops and maintains positive client relationships (internal and external).

Secondary Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Gathers information and submits responses for various Human Resources questionnaires and/or surveys.
2. Occasionally coordinates temporary coverage through external agencies for administrative positions in the Austin office.
3. Performs other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

1. Job is performed in a typical office environment, but is subject to time pressures and constraints, and is often dependent on input from others.
2. This position offers the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule in line with the Firm’s flexible working policy (4 days in-office, 1 day remote); however, remote flexibility may not be possible during periods of high volume or low coverage with key office personnel.

Qualifications

1. Education: Bachelor’s degree required in Human Resources, Business, or other related field. Relevant certifications such as SHRM-CP and PHR preferred.
2. Experience: Five to seven years’ experience in Human Resources or related field. Experience in a professional services environment, such as a law firm, is a plus.
3. Special Knowledge: Current knowledge and understanding of federal and state laws and regulations. Current knowledge of best practices for Human Resources.
4. Technical Skills: Knowledge of PC, experience working with HRIS systems; Microsoft Office Suite.
5. Attributes: Requires a high level of emotional intelligence (EQ) to effectively manage interpersonal relationships, resolve conflicts, and foster a positive work environment. Must have the ability to establish good working relationships with all levels of employees within the firm. Must be able to communicate effectively, both written and verbally, have effective presentation skills/abilities. Must have strong organizational skills and possess good judgment and initiative. A high level of attention to detail is critical for success in this role.
6. Qualifications: Skilled in counseling employees and maintaining confidentiality. Must also be resourceful and capable of thinking strategically.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications and skills required of personnel so classified. The firm reserves the right to revise or modify this job description at any time.