HR Manager

Internal Code: HR2Reports to: Director of Business OperationsLocation: MATSYS HQ, Sterling, VA (Hybrid or On-Site)The Human Resources Manager will lead the HR function for a fast-growing government contractor specializing in research, development, and production. This role will drive innovative, data-informed recruiting strategies and a disciplined performance management program to attract, retain, and develop high-caliber talent in a highly competitive GovCon market. The ideal candidate is a creative problem solver who can experiment with new sourcing channels, remove bottlenecks in the hiring process, and partner with leadership to design practical solutions to complex talent challenges.By virtue of contract requirements, this position is only open to U.S. citizens.DescriptionTalent Acquisition & StrategyOwn full-cycle recruiting, from intake to offer and onboardingDesign creative sourcing strategies (employee referral campaigns, niche cleared job boards, military transition programs, university partnerships, industry associations) to reach scarce and specialized talentPartner with program managers and leadership to anticipate staffing needs and own the hiring strategy, proposing alternative staffing models when constraints ariseDevelop and implement an employer branding strategyFull-Cycle Performance Management and DevelopmentDesign, implement, and continuously refine a practical performance management framework that fits both R&D and production environments (goals, KPIs, check-ins, and annual reviews)Coach managers on setting measurable expectations, delivering candid feedback, documenting performance, and managing underperformance in a timely, compliant mannerUse performance and turnover data to identify trends, recommend interventions, and test new approaches to development, recognition, and career pathwaysPartner with leaders to define skills needed for future growth and propose targeted training, mentoring, and stretch assignments to build internal strengthHR Operations, Compliance, and GovCon RequirementsEnsure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, as well as applicable federal contractor requirementsMaintain and update HR policies and procedures that align with government contracting standards and support audits and contract reviewsCoordinate closely with Security/FSO and Contracts on matters related to cleared personnel, position requirements, and contract labor categories as neededParticipate in the Insider Threat Working GroupManage HRIS and personnel records with appropriate controls for sensitive and controlled informationEmployee Relations and CultureServe as a trusted advisor to leaders and employees, helping resolve issues in a way that balances compliance, business needs, and employee experienceProactively surface themes from recruiting, performance discussions, and exit feedback, and recommend actions that strengthen engagement, retention, and communicationHelp leadership model and reinforce a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration across technical and production teamsMonitor retention metrics and propose creative, cost-conscious solutions to reduce regrettable turnover in critical rolesCompensation, Benefits, And RetentionAdminister compensation and benefits programs consistent with market conditions, company philosophy, and contract parametersPartner with leadership on salary benchmarking, job leveling, and internal equity reviews, using data to support recommendationsManage timekeeping and payroll in accordance with applicable lawOther duties as assignedRequiredBachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (will substitute applicable experience)5-8+ years of progressive HR experience, with strong emphasis on recruiting and performance management; experience in a government contracting strongly preferredDemonstrated track record of solving complex recruiting challenges through creative sourcing, process improvements, and experimentation in tight labor markets (technical, cleared, or niche skill sets).Working knowledge of federal contractor requirements (EEO, OFCCP, AAP) and general familiarity with FAR/DFARS concepts as they intersect with HR and staffingStrong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate data into practical, business-focused recommendationsExcellent communication, influencing, and relationship-building skills across all levels of the organizationComfortable operating as a hands-on solo HR leader in a fast-paced, high-growth environmentPreferred QualificationsHR certification (SHRM-SCP or SPHR)Prior experience in a small to mid-sized defense, aerospace, or technology-focused companyExperience managing multi-site HRAbout MATSYS Inc.We are a rapidly growing defense manufacturing company focused on delivering high-quality, mission-critical products for our customers. Our team combines technical expertise, operational discipline, and a commitment to excellence to solve complex problems and support national security.MATSYS prides itself on its dynamic team, its ability to push boundaries and the commitment of its employees to excellence, innovation and teamwork.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to characteristics protected by law or irrelevant to performance, unless otherwise required by law.MATSYS uses E-Verify to verify right-to-work.MATSYS is a Drug-Free Workplace. Candidates are required to pass a pre-employment background investigation and drug test prior following receipt of a conditional job offer.