HR Operations Manager

Location: Ideal candidate will be located in the Nashville, TN, Manitowoc/Two Rivers, WI or Albert Lea, MN area

At JPW Industries, we don’t just build products – we build careers.

At JPW Industries, we are redefining excellence in industrial tools and machinery. With industry shaping brands like Jet, Powermatic, Wilton, Edwards, Baileigh and Axiom, we lead the way in delivering high quality solutions to professionals worldwide. Join us and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our products and industry.

What You Will Do: Lead. Optimize. Execute.

JPW Industries is seeking an experienced and highly operational HR leader to join our team as HR Operations Manager. This role will serve as the operational backbone of the HR function, overseeing HR systems, payroll, compliance, benefits administration, and core HR processes, like on/off-boarding and performance across the organization.

The ideal candidate has a can-do spirit with a growth mindset, consistently demonstrating collaboration, a passion for efficient and effective processes, is system savvy and thrives in a fast-paced environment.

This role requires a strong balance of operational execution, problem solving, organizational partnership, and continuous improvement mindset while supporting both day-to-day HR operations and broader organizational initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Team Member Experience

Lead pre-hire activities once the offer is accepted, including facilitating HR Orientation and Onboarding
Support performance management processes and documentation
Coordinate all off-boarding activities ensuring the same respect and dignity is provided to team members leaving the organization as when they were hired
Support organizational initiatives, operational changes, and workforce planning efforts in partnership with leadership
Develop, implement and maintain scalable HR policies, procedures and operational standards
Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on operational efficiency, consistency and scalability, and implementing proactive solutions to improve HR effectiveness and service delivery
Serve as a trusted HR resource and primary point of contact for team members across the organization providing guidance, support, and direction on HR related questions, policies, processes, and available resources

Payroll & HRIS Administration

Serve as primary owner and administrator of HR systems including workflows, reporting structures, troubleshooting, audits, permissions, and process optimization
Oversee payroll processing and payroll vendor management to ensure operational accuracy and compliance
Ensure consistency and accuracy of team member and organizational data across HR systems
Develop and maintain HR reporting, dashboards, analytics, and operational metrics to support business decision making
Lead HR technology enhancements, reporting improvements, process automation initiatives, and systems optimization projects

Benefits Administration

Oversee employee benefits administration and annual open enrollment
Partner with brokers and vendors regarding plan administration
Resolve employee benefit related issues and escalations
Oversee leave administration and accommodation processes

Compliance, Risk & Operational Oversight

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulatory requirements across all locations
Lead HR audits, compliance reporting, documentation governance, and risk mitigation activities
Provide guidance to leaders regarding policy interpretation, compliance considerations, and HR operational best practices
Identify operational and compliance risks and recommend proactive solutions to leadership

What You Will Bring: Leadership. Accountability. Operational Excellence.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field, preferred
Experience: 5-8+ years of progressive HR experience
SHRM, PHR, SPHR are welcome but not required

Competencies:

The ideal candidate will have proven experience in the below:

HR Operations & Compliance

Strong working knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and HR compliance requirements
Strong understanding of payroll governance, HR operations, organizational risk management, and employee lifecycle processes
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive employee and organizational matters
Strong attention to detail with the ability to ensure operational accuracy, consistency, and compliance

Systems & Analytical Capability

Strong HRIS systems administration experience including workflows, reporting, troubleshooting, data governance, process optimization, and systems management
Ability to analyze HR and operational data to identify trends, discrepancies, risks, and opportunities for improvement
Advanced Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel and reporting tools
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make data driven operational decisions
Experience leading technology improvements, reporting enhancements, and process automation initiatives preferred

Organization & Execution

Excellent organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and operational initiatives
Demonstrated ability to independently drive operational execution while maintaining strong communication and accountability
Process driven mindset with a focus on operational excellence, scalability, efficiency, and continuous improvement
Demonstrated ability to lead operational projects and support organizational change initiatives
Ability to adapt and respond effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with shifting operational priorities

Communication & Relationship Building

Strong verbal and written communication skills across all levels of the organization
Ability to build strong relationships and credibility with team members at levels in the organization and external partners
Collaborative and service-oriented approach with the ability to partner cross functionally across departments and locations
Demonstrated ability to influence and partner effectively across functions and leadership levels
Strong conflict resolution capabilities

Leadership & Professionalism

Strong sense of ownership, accountability, and professionalism
Ability to manage sensitive and complex situations with discretion and sound judgment
Positive, proactive, and team-oriented approach to leadership and operational problem solving
Ability to balance strategic initiatives with operational execution
Demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence

Why JPW Industries? Lead. Innovate. Deliver.

We are more than just a workplace – we are a community of innovators, problem-solvers, and game-changers. Here’s what we offer:

Competitive Pay + Annual Bonuses
Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, telehealth, and more from Day 1
Retirement Plans & Employer Contributions
Generous PTO + Paid Holidays
Career Development & Learning Opportunities
Team Member Appreciation Events
A Culture That Values Integrity, Teamwork & Innovation

At JPW Industries...we don’t just build products – we build careers!

Be Part of Something Bigger. Apply Today.

JPW Industries is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or other protected status.

Manager, HR Operations