Manager, HR Operations

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. 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? 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 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr JPW Industries