Human Resources Director

Human Resources DirectorFull Time Direct HireElk Grove Village, IL 60007 (Chicago) with ~10-25% semi-local travel ~120-160k + bonus Required7–10+ years of progressive HR experienceExperience in a manufacturing or industrial environment with warehouse/production staffDemonstrated experience as a standalone HR generalist or HR leader — someone who is comfortable owning the full HR functionStrong working knowledge of employment law, OSHA requirements, and HR compliance best practicesExperience managing benefits administration, I-9 compliance, background screening, and drug testing programsProven ability to build relationships and credibility at all levels — from the shop floor to the C-suiteStrong problem-solving skills with a proactive, take-initiative mindsetComfortable with ambiguity and able to build structure where little currently existsExcellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skillsDesiredPHR, SHRM-CP, or equivalent HR certificationExperience working with third-party payroll providersFamiliarity with ERP systems and HRIS platformsPrior experience supporting multi-location operationsBackground in non-union manufacturing environmentsSummaryWe are seeking a hands-on, strategic Director of Human Resources to serve as the company's dedicated, standalone HR leader. This is a high-impact, highly visible role reporting directly to the CEO and Head of Finance. The right candidate will be both a trusted business partner to senior leadership and a boots-on-the-ground HR professional who is comfortable working side-by-side with the production team on the shop floor. This is an opportunity to own and rebuild the HR function from the ground up — defining processes, instilling best practices, driving culture, and positioning the company for the future. ResponsibilitiesStrategic HR PartnershipServe as a trusted advisor and thought partner to the CEO and Head of Finance on all people-related mattersDevelop and execute HR strategies aligned with the company's business objectives and long-term growth plansAct as a change agent — evaluate current HR practices, identify gaps, and proactively drive improvementsBuild strong relationships across the organization including the shop floor, operations, and sales teamsPartner with leadership on organizational structure, workforce planning, and talent needsHR Compliance & AdministrationEnsure company-wide compliance with all applicable federal, state, local employment laws (FLSA, FMLA, ADA, EEO, etc.)Manage and maintain accurate employee records, HRIS system, and HR reportingWork with Head of Finance to oversee the company's relationship with its third-party payroll provider, ensuring accuracy and timely processing Administer benefits programs including health insurance, and serve as primary point of contact for vendors and employeesMaintain and update the employee handbook and HR policiesSafety, Training & ComplianceOwn OSHA compliance, recordkeeping (OSHA 300 logs), and safety program administrationDevelop and oversee required safety training programs for production staff including active shooter preparedness, equipment safety, and hazard communicationCoordinate ongoing employee education, training, and professional development programsPromote a culture of safety, accountability, and employee well-being across both locationsTalent Acquisition & OnboardingOwn recruiting for all levels of the organization including operations, sales, and administrative rolesOptimize to attract the top talent and save money on recruiting expenses and turnoverPartner with strategic search partners to find and attract crucial personnelDesign and facilitate onboarding programs to drive early engagement and retentionManage background screening, drug testing (including cannabis per company policy), and I-9 / work authorization complianceEmployee Relations & CultureServe as the primary point of contact for employee relations matters, maintaining an open-door cultureHandle employee concerns, conflict resolution, and investigations in a fair, consistent, and timely mannerSupport managers on performance management, disciplinary processes, and documentationFoster strong morale and engagement on the shop floor and throughout the organizationChampion a positive, team-oriented work environment consistent with the company's values and cultureHR Systems & ReportingEvaluate, implement, and manage HRIS systems including any HR module within the company's ERP platformMaintain workforce analytics and provide regular HR reporting to leadershipManage third-party HR service providers including background screening, drug testing, and benefits administration vendors