Human Resources Manager

About the role

Unusual Machines is a U.S.-based drone and drone parts company focused on the small and FPV segments, with brands Rotor Riot, Fat Shark, Rotor Lab, and upcoming Upgrade Energy. The company is expanding into enterprise and defense, with several products approved by the Defense Innovation Unit. Location: Torrance, CA. Salary Range: $100,000 - $120,000 annually. Upgrade Energy is in the process of being acquired by Unusual Machines, with the transaction expected to be finalized shortly. We are seeking an experienced HR Manager who understands the unique challenges that come with an acquisition and can help guide the organization through the transition and integration. The ideal candidate will be comfortable navigating change, aligning policies and processes, supporting employees and leaders through the transition, and helping build a strong, consistent culture as Upgrade Energy becomes part of Unusual Machines. You are a hands-on HR leader who thrives in fast-paced, growing organizations, enjoys being visible, approachable, and actively engaged with employees and leaders across the business. You understand that great workplaces are built through strong employee support, operational excellence, compliance, and a commitment to creating an environment where people can do their best work. At Upgrade Energy, you will serve as the primary HR and Facilities leader for our California operation, wearing multiple hats and making a meaningful impact while building and scaling people practices and ensuring the facility remains safe, organized, functional, and employee-focused. A day may involve onboarding new employees, coaching managers through employee relations situations, ensuring compliance with California employment laws, coordinating facility maintenance, working with vendors, resolving workplace issues, planning employee events, or supporting recruiting efforts for production and operational teams.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary HR resource for employees and leaders at the California facility
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, with a strong focus on California labor law requirements
• Lead employee relations activities, including coaching managers, conducting investigations, resolving workplace concerns, and supporting performance management efforts
• Manage onboarding, orientation, and new hire integration programs
• Partner with hiring managers to recruit, interview, and hire production, warehouse, and operational employees
• Support employee engagement, retention, and culture-building initiatives
• Assist with policy implementation, employee communications, and HR program administration
• Maintain employee records and ensure HR documentation is complete and compliant
• Support organizational growth and workforce planning initiatives
• Partner with corporate HR leadership to implement company-wide programs and processes
• Build and lead future HR team members as the organization continues to grow

Requirements

• 5+ years of progressive Human Resources experience, preferably in manufacturing, operations, distribution, or other fast-paced environments
• Strong working knowledge of California employment laws and HR compliance requirements
• Experience handling employee relations matters, investigations, performance management, and conflict resolution
• Recruiting experience