HR Operations Manager

About the role

We are seeking a strategic, hands-on HR Operations leader to architect and elevate our HR function as we expand from a regional construction leader to a national enterprise. This role is the operational backbone of HR—responsible for building scalable infrastructure, leading HR technology, owning compliance, and transforming how we deliver people services across union and non-union workforces in up to 48 states.

Responsibilities

• Build scalable HR infrastructure and HR service delivery
• Lead HR technology, including Workday HCM, Benefits, Absence, Reporting, and/or Payroll modules
• Owning compliance with federal and multi-state employment laws (FMLA, ADA, FLSA, Title VII, NLRA, state-specific requirements)
• Support M&A HR due diligence and integration
• Manage HR service center operations, vendor relationships, and compliance programs
• Develop HR reporting and analytics capabilities, including executive dashboards and workforce metrics
• Manage multiple complex initiatives simultaneously, from high-level planning to hands-on work
• Communicate effectively with all levels of the organization, from field supervisors to the C-suite
• Navigate sensitive employee matters and confidential information with discretion
• Implement process automation and HR shared services

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field; Master’s degree or MBA a plus
• 8+ years of progressive HR experience with at least 4 years in a senior HR Operations, HRIS, or HR leadership role
• Proven experience in a multi-state or national company operating across U.S. regions; experience nationally a significant plus
• Hands-on Workday experience preferred—HCM, Benefits, Absence, Reporting, and/or Payroll modules strongly preferred
• Experience supporting both union and non-union workforces; working knowledge of collective bargaining and labor relations preferred
• Demonstrated experience managing HR service center operations, HR compliance programs, and vendor relationships
• Track record of building HR reporting and analytics capabilities, including executive dashboards and workforce metrics
• Experience leading or participating in M&A HR due diligence and integration
• Construction, field services, transportation, or similarly regulated industry experience strongly preferred

Technical & Regulatory Knowledge

• Deep knowledge of federal and multi-state employment law (FMLA, ADA, FLSA, Title VII, NLRA, state-specific requirements)
• Expertise in DOT/FMCSA regulations, including CDL requirements, drug & alcohol testing programs, and DER responsibilities
• Familiarity with MSHA regulations and construction industry workforce requirements a strong plus
• Proficiency with HRIS systems (Workday strongly preferred); experience with ATS, LMS, and/or payroll platforms a plus
• Strong data literacy; advanced Excel, Workday reporting, and/or BI tool experience (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)

Leadership & Competencies

• Strategic thinker who can translate vision into operational execution; comfortable moving between high-level planning and hands-on work
• Proven ability to lead and develop HR teams in fast-paced, growth-oriented environments
• Exceptional project management skills; ability to manage multiple complex initiatives simultaneously
• Strong vendor management and negotiation skills; experience running RFP processes and managing third-party contracts
• Effective communicator and influencer at all levels—from field supervisors to the C-suite
• Navigate sensitive employee matters and confidential information with discretion
• Change agent with a continuous improvement mindset; experience implementing process automation or HR shared services a plus

Benefits

• Competitive compensation aligned with industry standards
• Employer Paid Medical Plan with HRA contribution (eligibility requirements)
• Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Flex Spending Account (FSA)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Company-paid short and long-term disability coverage
• Paid parental leave
• Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Profit sharing
• Robust Walbec training and professional development program
• Ongoing career growth opportunities

Qualifications

• Women and minorities are encouraged to apply