Human Resources Manager

At Catapult, we are assisting our member, AKG, with finding their next Human Resources Manager. For over 100 years, AKG has been developing and producing pioneering technologies for the cooling systems of tomorrow - for a better future.

AKG is seeking an experienced Human Resources Manager to lead payroll, employee relations, and employee engagement initiatives across our multi-site operations. This role is ideal for a hands-on HR leader who thrives on building strong relationships, coaching leaders, driving positive workplace culture, and ensuring operational excellence.

As a key member of the HR team, you'll serve as a trusted partner to leaders, champion employee experience initiatives, and help bring The AKG Way to life through Safety, Respect for Others, Accountability, and Being Part of the Solution.

What You'll Own:

Payroll Leadership & Compliance (30%)

• Provide leadership and strategic oversight of payroll operations across North Carolina and South Dakota locations.
• Ensure payroll accuracy, compliance, and timely execution through established processes and controls.
• Review payroll audits, reconciliations, and reporting.
• Partner closely with Finance on payroll-related reporting, accruals, and compliance requirements.
• Identify opportunities to streamline processes, strengthen controls, and improve efficiency.
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour regulations.
• Develop and maintain payroll SOPs, work instructions, and audit processes.

Employee Relations & Leadership Support (30%)

• Serve as the primary HR partner for managers and supervisors.
• Lead employee relations investigations and ensure fair, consistent outcomes.
• Coach leaders on performance management, accountability, communication, and employee development.
• Guide corrective action processes and ensure appropriate documentation.
• Proactively identify workplace trends and address concerns before they escalate.
• Foster a culture built on trust, respect, fairness, and accountability across locations.

Employee Engagement & Communications (40%)

• Lead employee engagement strategy, including surveys, recognition programs, and employee events.
• Own and elevate recognition programs such as Catch 'Em Right and Employee of the Month.
• Manage employee communications, including Paylocity Community content and messaging initiatives.
• Partner with leaders to improve communication effectiveness and strengthen team engagement.
• Analyze employee feedback and drive meaningful action plans.
• Develop programs that enhance culture, trust, retention, and the overall employee experience.

Additional Responsibilities

• Partner with HR team members on continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure consistent application of HR policies and practices across the organization.
• Support business objectives through additional projects and responsibilities as needed.

What You'll Bring:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressive HR experience with significant responsibility for payroll oversight and employee relations.
• Prior HR leadership experience, including coaching, mentoring, or leading team members.
• At least two years of supervisory or management experience preferred.
• Multi-site and/or manufacturing experience strongly preferred.
• Bilingual English/Spanish skills highly preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong knowledge of payroll operations and compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated experience managing employee relations matters and investigations.
• Proven ability to influence, coach, and develop leaders.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• High attention to detail and discretion when handling confidential information.
• Ability to balance strategic priorities with day-to-day operational execution.

The AKG Way:

At AKG, our values guide everything we do:

• Safety: We prioritize the well-being of every employee.
• Respect for Others: We build trust through fairness, consistency, and integrity.
• Accountability: We take ownership and deliver results.
• Being Part of the Solution: We proactively solve problems and continuously improve.

Working Environment

• Regular on-site presence with frequent interaction across production and office teams.
• Flexibility to support employees across shifts as business needs require.
• Monthly early-morning shift support (approximately 3:30 a.m.) to engage with third-shift employees, with schedule adjustments provided as appropriate.
• Occasional availability outside traditional business hours for employee engagement events, meetings, and operational needs.

Why AKG?

At AKG, you'll have the opportunity to make a visible impact on culture, employee engagement, and organizational success. We are committed to creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow. If you're passionate about building strong teams, coaching leaders, and creating an exceptional employee experience, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help shape the future of AKG.

AKG is an Equal Opportunity Employer.