Job Description

Company Overview

Our client, a U.S. branch of an award-winning European technology group, is a leader in innovation and sustainability. The company delivers thousands of products across global markets and serves high-reliability sectors such as aerospace, defense, and test & measurement. This specialized manufacturing facility operates in a high-mix, low-volume environment where precision, quality, and documentation are paramount. With strong cross-functional collaboration and near-full production capacity, the site is key to providing tailored solutions for mission-critical applications. This position is confidential; the company name and additional details will be shared with qualified candidates early in the interview process.

Title: HR Manager

Location: Somerset County, New Jersey

Reports to: Managing Director

The Position

The HR Manager will serve as a strategic and hands-on partner to leadership, overseeing the full HR function and supporting employees across the organization. This role combines operational excellence in HR administration and compliance with leadership in talent management, organizational development, and cultural engagement. Acting as a key advisor to the Managing Director, the HR Manager will ensure HR practices align with business goals, industry regulations, and the needs of a dynamic, global workplace.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Serve as a strategic and hands-on HR partner to leadership and the Managing Director
• Oversee the full HR value chain, including recruitment, employee development, performance management, disciplinary actions, and exit processes
• Provide independent support across all personnel areas throughout the HR lifecycle
• Manage HR administration and ensure compliance with payroll, tax, and social security requirements (payroll outsourced but requiring local oversight)
• Develop, monitor, and analyze HR metrics (e.g., absences, headcount, workforce planning) to inform decision-making
• Ensure compliance with HR regulations, internal audits, and Aerospace & Defense industry standards
• Act as liaison with attorneys and advisors to ensure accurate handling of legal and compliance matters
• Drive initiatives in talent management, coaching, employee engagement, and sustainability practices
• Support the Global Employer Survey 2026 and follow through on resulting actions
• Lead further improvement of HR processes to enhance efficiency and employee experience
• Support and implement global employer branding activities in alignment with corporate initiatives
• Ensure high potential management and succession planning to strengthen leadership pipelines
• Foster intercultural competence, networking, and collaboration within a diverse workforce
• Promote a high-energy, inclusive, and growth-oriented culture across the organization

Qualifications

• Additional academic background in sociology, labor law, psychology, pedagogy, or related disciplines is advantageous
• Strong command of MS Office tools; experience with SAP HCM and Umantis preferred
• 7–10 years of progressive HR experience spanning recruitment, employee development, payroll oversight, organizational development, and change initiatives
• At least 5 years in a leadership or supervisory role within HR, ideally in an industrial or manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated project leadership in HR transformation, optimization, or process improvement
• Solid understanding of local payroll administration and social security obligations (outsourced processing but requiring strong oversight)
• Fluent in English; Spanish language skills considered an advantage
• In-depth knowledge of HR processes, compliance requirements, and industry regulations
• Skilled in interpreting and applying HR data and workforce analytics
• Proven capability in talent development, coaching, succession planning, and high-potential employee management
• Intercultural awareness, strong relationship-building skills, and ability to navigate diverse work environments
• Entrepreneurial approach with a focus on continuous improvement and sustainability initiatives
• High drive and energy, with the ability to inspire and engage others
• US Citizenship is required due to Aerospace & Defense industry compliance standards
• Lead and support change management, organizational development, and HR optimization projects

For New Jersey's pay transparency laws, please note that total compensation will not exceed the mid 100,000s for this position. More can be discussed in the interview process.

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