Human Resources Manager

Join the TEAM at Western Smokehouse Partners!

We’re more than just a leader in the better-for-you meat snack industry-we’re a team driven by quality, innovation and a passion for great meat sticks and jerky. With eight facilities across five states, we’re setting the standard in excellence for our co-manufacturing and private label customers. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for highly motivated individuals who want to be part of an industry-leading company that values contribution, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Western Smokehouse Partners is looking for a Human Resources Manager.

We are seeking a Human Resources Manager to lead HR at our fast-paced, multi-shift Shelley facility. As a trusted partner to plant leadership and corporate HR, you will connect workforce priorities with production needs, strengthen frontline leadership, and build an employee experience grounded in trust and accountability. This role combines strategic judgment with hands-on support for employees.

Essential responsibilities

• Lead HR operations. Set priorities, develop the HR team, and maintain a visible presence across shifts. Balance daily needs with longer-term improvements, delegate effectively, and ensure timely follow-through.
• Advise plant leadership. Translate production plans into staffing and retention strategies. Use turnover, absenteeism, vacancies, and overtime trends to identify workforce risks and recommend actions that support reliable operations.
• Manage employee relations. Lead impartial investigations, resolve concerns, and guide consistent corrective action and separation decisions. Maintain clear documentation, monitor for retaliation, and escalate sensitive or high-risk matters to corporate HR and legal counsel as appropriate.
• Develop leaders and culture. Coach supervisors on communication, conflict resolution, attendance, and performance. Support recognition, employee feedback, succession planning, and development opportunities that strengthen leadership across shifts.
• Strengthen hiring and retention. Oversee recruitment, orientation, and onboarding. Partner with operations to improve new hire integration, address early turnover, and ensure employees understand expectations and available support.
• Oversee HR administration and compliance. Coordinate compensation, benefits, leave, accommodations, and return-to-work processes. Partner with payroll on accurate timekeeping and employee changes; maintain confidential records, support audits, and address compliance gaps.
• Partner across functions. Work with Safety and operations on injury-related employee support, workers’ compensation coordination, and modified duty. Communicate organizational changes clearly and improve HR processes as business needs evolve.

Required qualifications

• At least five years of progressive HR experience with substantial responsibility for employee relations, performance management, and advising leaders.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex employee matters, conduct objective investigations, and make sound recommendations under pressure.
• Working knowledge of employment compliance, including wage and hour practices, leave, accommodations, nondiscrimination, and confidentiality.
• Experience with HRIS systems, workforce reporting, and accurate HR administration; ability to turn data into practical action.
• Ability to work onsite and provide responsive support across shifts, including occasional schedule flexibility for urgent employee or operational needs.
• Bilingual English and Spanish skills.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience leading HR operations or serving as a senior HR business partner, including coaching or supervising HR staff.
• Experience supporting a manufacturing workforce of comparable size in a fast-paced, multi-shift environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Paycom experience and an HR certification such as SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR.

What success looks like

You earn credibility with employees and leaders by being approachable, fair, and consistent. You address concerns promptly, explain decisions clearly, and coach supervisors to take ownership of people issues. You know when to act independently and when to seek support.

You remain composed as priorities shift, distinguish urgent risks from routine requests, and keep commitments moving. You balance employee needs with business requirements, protect sensitive information, and use workforce trends to prevent recurring problems. Your work strengthens staffing stability, leadership capability, and confidence in HR.

Benefits Offered

• Health, dental, and vision insurance 

• 401(k) with company match 

• Paid time off and holidays 

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)  

Compliance and Safety 

This position must comply with all company policies, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), OSHA regulations, and Illinois Department of Labor standards. Employees are required to follow all safety protocols and report any unsafe conditions to a supervisor immediately. 

 Equal Employment Opportunity Western Smokehouse Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We are committed to compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local labor laws. 

If you’re looking for a workplace where you’re valued, supported, and where you’ll be a part of a team that’s shaping the future of meat snacks, we’d love to have you join us!