Human Resources (HR) Manager

Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced and strategic Human Resources Manager to partner with the Plant Manager and leadership team in building the organizational foundation for a new Rare Earth/ Critical Minerals production facility at our brownfield site in Marion, Indiana. This role will play a pivotal part in supporting rapid scale-up by establishing HR infrastructure, creating job descriptions, driving recruitment and onboarding for both salaried and hourly positions, and transitioning into full day‑to‑day HR leadership as the facility ramps up operations over the next 6–12 months. The ideal candidate is a hands‑on leader with prior HR Manager experience who thrives in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment and is excited by the opportunity to build HR systems from the ground up in a growing manufacturing operation. Key Responsibilities Partner closely with the Plant Manager and operations/technical teams to design the organizational structure, define roles, and create comprehensive job descriptions for new positions across salary and hourly levels. Lead full‑cycle recruitment efforts, including sourcing, screening, interviewing, and selection of candidates for technical, operational, professional, and hourly manufacturing roles. Manage the employee onboarding process, including orientation programs, training coordination, and ensuring a smooth integration into the company culture and safety standards. Develop and implement HR policies, procedures, and best practices aligned with business needs, regulatory requirements, and company values. Support employee relations, performance management, compensation planning, benefits administration, and compliance with federal, state (Indiana), and local employment laws. Collaborate with leadership on workforce planning, talent development, training initiatives, and retention strategies to support facility scale‑up and long‑term operations. Oversee HR administration, including personnel records, payroll coordination (as applicable), leave management, and reporting. Serve as a trusted advisor to managers and employees on HR matters, fostering a positive, safe, and compliant work environment. As the facility ramps up, expand scope to include day‑to‑day HR operations, employee engagement, diversity initiatives, and continuous improvement of HR programs. Stay current on labor laws, industry trends, and best practices in manufacturing/chemical sector HR. Qualifications & Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Psychology, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred). 5+ years of progressive HR experience, with at least 2 years in an HR Manager or equivalent leadership role. Proven experience in recruitment, job description development, onboarding, and building HR processes in a manufacturing or industrial setting. Strong knowledge of employment law, compliance, and HR best practices (e.g., EEOC, FLSA, FMLA, OSHA coordination). Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem‑solving skills with the ability to influence and partner effectively at all levels. Self‑motivated, organized, and comfortable operating in a fast‑paced, ambiguous startup‑like environment with evolving priorities. Proficiency in HRIS systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and applicant tracking tools. Preferred Qualifications Professional HR certifications such as SHRM‑CP, SHRM‑SCP, PHR, or SPHR. Experience in chemical manufacturing, critical minerals, or other process industries with technical hiring needs. Background supporting greenfield/brownfield facility startups or rapid organizational scaling. Familiarity with Indiana‑specific employment regulations and union‑free environments. What We Offer Competitive compensation package with performance incentives and growth opportunities in a high‑potential critical minerals company. The chance to build and lead the HR function from early development through full‑scale operations. Dynamic, entrepreneurial culture with direct impact on company success and employee experience. Comprehensive benefits including health, retirement, and professional development support. This role is ideal for an HR professional eager to take ownership in a transformative industrial project with significant career upside. #J-18808-Ljbffr