Director of Human Resources

This role is primarily based at our headquarters in the Innovation Depot in downtown Birmingham. Depending on the position, work may involve hands‑on time in our hydroponic R&D lab, participation in farmers market events, or collaboration across digital and physical systems.
As a startup, our environment is fast‑paced, evolving, and highly collaborative. Team members should be comfortable with shifting priorities, physical activity (standing, lifting, bending, etc.), and working with tools, technology, or plant systems in various stages of development.
We value flexibility, problem‑solving, and a willingness to grow with the work.

About the Role

Objectives of this Role

• Design and lead the full employee lifecycle process including recruitment, onboarding, development, and offboarding.
• Build out HR systems and practices that reflect the company’s culture, values, and compliance needs.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
• Partner with leadership on org design, workforce development, compensation planning, and employee engagement.
• Serve as a thought partner to leadership on talent strategy and workforce optimization.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day‑to‑day HR operations and develop HR systems and processes across multiple departments and locations.
• Partner with department heads on hiring plans, job descriptions, and candidate screening.
• Manage payroll administration, benefits, and employee recordkeeping.
• Lead performance management process and career development pathways.
• Foster a positive and inclusive culture that promotes retention and employee satisfaction.
• Manage investigations and conflict resolution efforts in alignment with company values and employment law.
• Coordinate benefits administration and annual enrollment periods.
• Track key HR metrics and present insights to the executive team.

Requirements

Required Skills and Qualifications

8+ years of progressive HR experience, including 3+ years in a leadership role.

Deep knowledge of employment law, compliance, and HR best practices.

Experience scaling HR systems in a startup or high‑growth environment.

Strong communication and leadership skills; ability to build trust and manage sensitive situations.

Proficiency in modern HRIS and payroll platforms.

Familiarity with agriculture, food systems, sustainability, or manufacturing sectors is a plus.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.

Professional certification such as SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or PHR preferred.

Experience working with distributed teams and cross‑functional leadership.

Salary Range:$95,000 – $105,000 annually, depending on experience

Employment Type:Full-time

BCBS Health Insurance (75% Health, 100% Dental and Vision)

Standard national holidays

Based at the Innovation Depot in downtown Birmingham, AL

About the Company

Shipshape AgWorks is seeking a dedicated and strategic Director of Human Resources to lead all aspects of human capital planning and people operations. As a high-growth, mission-driven company, we’re looking for an HR professional who thrives in a fast‑paced, evolving environment and who can build and scale systems to support our team across agricultural innovation, technology, and operations.
This position will drive recruiting, retention, onboarding, compliance, performance management, DEI strategy, and employee well‑being. The ideal candidate is both people- and systems-oriented, with a proven track record of building HR infrastructure in an early‑stage or scaling company.