Head of Human Resources (HR Leader) – ESS Pack U.S. Operations
📍 Location: Matteson, IL
🕒 Schedule: Full-Time | Leadership Role
💰 Pay: $173,000 per year
📄 Position Type: Full-Time

Why Join Peopleworks?

Peopleworks designs and manufactures cutting-edge Energy Storage Systems (ESS) that power the future of clean energy. We lead the market in advanced battery technologies and innovative manufacturing practices. At Peopleworks, we don’t just create exceptional energy solutions—we build rewarding careers and lasting relationships. Join a team that values precision, service, and excellence, and be part of an organization where innovation meets opportunity.

What We Offer:

✅ Comprehensive Insurance Benefits – Medical, Dental, Vision, Life & AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability, and supplemental coverages
✅ 401(k) with Company Contribution – Plan for your future with confidence
✅ Paid Time Off – Generous PTO including vacation and holidays
✅ Work Environment – Innovative, fast-paced, and collaborative culture within a global company
✅ Growth Opportunities – Real potential for leadership advancement in a growing U.S. operation

Your Role as Head of Human Resources:

As the Head of Human Resources, you will play a critical role in leading all HR functions for our new ESS Pack manufacturing plant in the U.S. This position requires strategic vision, leadership expertise, and a hands-on approach to HR infrastructure. You will be responsible for building the HR team, shaping organizational culture, and ensuring full legal and operational compliance in collaboration with our global leadership.

Key Responsibilities:

🔹 HR Leadership & Strategy
• Develop and execute an HR roadmap aligned with plant launch and operational goals
• Lead organizational design, workforce planning, and policy creation
• Advise senior leadership on strategic people-related initiatives

🔹 Talent Acquisition & Team Building
• Build the HR department and recruit key operational roles
• Lead recruitment, onboarding, retention, and performance management
• Implement systems for employee development and succession planning

🔹 Compliance & Industrial Relations
• Ensure adherence to all federal, state, and local labor laws (FMLA, EEOC, OSHA, etc.)
• Manage employee relations, investigations, and disciplinary processes
• Maintain HR documentation to meet audit and compliance standards

🔹 Culture & Communication
• Champion a positive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture
• Drive internal communications and change management initiatives
• Coordinate with global HR teams (HQ in Korea) for cultural alignment

🔹 HR Operations
• Oversee payroll, benefits, time tracking, and leave management
• Implement and manage HRIS systems with a focus on confidentiality and accuracy
• Support HR audits, compliance reporting, and operational improvements

🔹 Other Duties as Assigned
• Assist in strategic initiatives and participate in company-wide planning and development efforts

What You Need to Succeed:

✔ Key Competencies:
• Excellent interpersonal, coaching, and conflict resolution skills
• Strong communication skills—verbal and written
• Strategic and hands-on approach to HR execution
• Deep understanding of U.S. labor law and HR compliance
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and HRIS/ERP systems (SAP a plus)

✔ Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• 10–15 years of progressive HR experience
• Minimum 5 years in a senior or leadership HR role
• Experience in manufacturing or industrial environments strongly preferred
• Proven track record of building HR teams and leading rapid growth
• HR certifications (SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR) highly desirable
• English fluency required; Korean language skills a plus