Human Resources Manager

Van Dam is seeking an experienced HR professional to establish and lead the human resources function for our campus in Boyne City, home to Van Dam Custom Boats and Boyne Boat Yard. This is a dynamic opportunity to contribute to our tradition of excellence by fostering a culture where employees are valued, supported, and inspired to grow. As a department of one, you will own HR end-to-end for 35+ employees across two companies, reporting directly to the Co-Owner and Vice President. The role is on campus, with a consistent weekly schedule designed to fit your life while ensuring visibility and presence on the shop floor.

About the role

This position offers real infrastructure-building opportunities and autonomy, with direct access to leadership and ownership. You will shape HR processes from the ground up, partnering closely with department managers and the Vice President.

Responsibilities

• Talent Acquisition & Onboarding: Own the full hiring cycle—postings, sourcing, interviewing, offers, and reference/background checks. Deliver new-hire orientation to ensure seamless onboarding, training, and integration.
• Benefits, Compensation & Payroll: Administer the full benefits program, including annual open enrollment and employee education. Maintain compensation structures, support the profit-sharing program, and either manage payroll directly or oversee the payroll provider relationship. Note: Payroll is currently outsourced, but we are open to bringing it in-house if preferred.
• Employee Relationships and Talent Development: Run the Performance Management Program to ensure timely, meaningful reviews. Build development paths for all employees, coordinate leadership training, and manage certifications. Coach managers on performance conversations, investigate/resolve concerns discreetly, and keep policies and the employee handbook current and practical.
• Compliance and Administration: Manage employee files, develop policies, and promote HR best practices. Ensure compliance with federal/Michigan employment laws, I-9/recordkeeping, leave administration, and workers’ compensation claims.
• Culture & Employee Experience: Steward our 37 cultural fundamentals in daily practice. Lead recognition programs, company meetings, and events to foster a workplace where employees build careers.

Requirements

• 5+ years of progressive HR experience, including time as a generalist or department of one.
• Working knowledge of federal and Michigan employment law, benefits administration, and HR information systems.
• Track record of developing HR policies, compensation structures, or performance management systems.
• Sound judgment and discretion with confidential information.
• Clear, confident communication in writing, one-on-one, and group settings.
• Hands-on, proactive approach with a passion for employee engagement and well-being.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

Nice to Have

• Manufacturing, fabrication, marine, or skilled-trades experience.
• SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification.
• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, or related field (equivalent experience valued).

Benefits

• Unique Benefits:
  • $200 crew gear allowance in the first year ($150 annually thereafter).
  • Profit-sharing plan.
  • After-hours shop and tool access.
  • Paid certifications and industry training (if applicable and approved).
  • Company-sponsored events.
  • Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
• Standard Benefits:
  • 401(k) with company contribution.
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Company-paid life insurance.
  • Optional additional life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance through company group rates.
  • Employee discounts.
  • Paid time off and holidays.

Pay

$70,000 – $90,000 per year, depending on experience.

About Us

Our Boyne City campus houses Van Dam Custom Boats and Boyne Boat Yard, united by a passion for craftsmanship and marine excellence. Van Dam Custom Boats has built high-performance, wood-composite boats since 1977, blending traditional techniques with modern engineering. Boyne Boat Yard offers full-service marine repair and restoration, tackling complex projects with access to our wood shop, machine shop, paint shop, and design office. Together, we foster a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and excellence, guided by 37 cultural fundamentals.