HR Manager

Job Summary The HR Manager will serve as a strategic HR leader and hands‑on partner to the plant leadership team during this critical greenfield expansion phase. This role is responsible for building the HR function from the ground up to support the launch and ramp‑up of a new solar cell manufacturing facility in Greenville, SC. The HR Manager will drive full‑cycle talent acquisition (professional and operator levels), build a strong leadership team, establish all HR policies/systems, promote employer branding, manage international recruitment and immigration processes, and foster positive community relations in a fast‑paced, high‑growth manufacturing environment. Key Responsibilities Strategic HR Leadership & Factory Start‑up Lead the build‑out of the HR function for a brand‑new solar cell manufacturing facility, including workforce planning from scratch to full production capacity Partner with senior leadership to build a high‑performing leadership team and scalable organizational structure Develop and implement factory policies, benefits programs, payroll processes, HRIS systems, and compliance frameworks Support organizational change, rapid scaling, and continuous improvement initiatives Talent Acquisition & Workforce Development Drive full‑cycle talent acquisition for both salaried professional roles and hourly operator/technician positions to meet aggressive ramp‑up timelines Lead international talent recruitment efforts, including visa sponsorship, immigration processes, and relocation support Build and promote a strong employer brand to attract top talent in the solar/manufacturing sector Partner with leadership on succession planning, leadership development, and retention strategies Employee Relations & Performance Management Manage employee relations, investigations, corrective actions, and conflict resolution Coach leaders on performance management, progressive discipline, goal setting, and talent development Foster a positive, safety‑first, and inclusive culture on the production floor Compliance, HR Operations & Systems Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws (FLSA, FMLA, ADA, EEO, OSHA, etc.) Oversee workers’ compensation, return‑to‑work programs, and workplace safety initiatives in partnership with operations Set up and manage HRIS, payroll, benefits administration, and reporting systems Analyze HR metrics (turnover, absenteeism, time‑to‑fill, etc.) to drive data‑informed decisions Community & Overseas Administration Establish and lead local community engagement activities to build Abner Solar’s reputation as an employer of choice in the Greenville area Manage overseas administration and coordination with global HR/talent teams as needed Support expatriate assignments and international employee integration Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (or 7+ years of progressive HR experience in manufacturing) Proven experience building HR functions or supporting greenfield manufacturing plant start‑ups Strong background in talent acquisition, including high‑volume hourly hiring and professional‑level recruitment Experience with international recruitment, visa/immigration processes, and managing diverse, multi‑cultural workforces Solid knowledge of employment law and HR best practices in a manufacturing environment Bi‑lingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred Proficiency with HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite Excellent communication, coaching, project management, and problem‑solving skills Preferred Qualifications Previous HR Manager or Senior HRBP experience in manufacturing (especially solar, semiconductor, or high‑tech) SHRM‑CP, SHRM‑SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification Experience in union‑free manufacturing environments Background in employer branding and community relations On‑site in a new manufacturing/plant environment with regular presence on the production floor Extended hours and flexibility required during ramp‑up and peak periods Fast‑paced, entrepreneurial setting with high visibility and direct impact on business success #J-18808-Ljbffr