What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Human Resources position at Nelson Irrigation Corporation?
Director of Human Resources
Nelson Irrigation | Walla Walla, WA (On-Site)
About Nelson Irrigation
Nelson Irrigation designs and manufactures precision agricultural irrigation products used by growers on six continents. A family-owned company, we combine the stability of an established US manufacturer with the culture of a business where every team member is an asset. We're looking for a Director of HR to help lead our people strategy as we continue to grow and thrive.
Why Walla Walla
Beyond the role itself, Walla Walla offers a quality of life that's hard to beat: a charming, walkable downtown filled with independent restaurants, wineries, bakeries; a real four-season climate; and easy access to the Blue Mountains for hiking, skiing, hunting, fishing, and camping. It's a community where people know their neighbors, commutes are short, housing is affordable relative to major metro cities, and there's a genuine sense of small-town warmth paired with big-city culinary and cultural offerings. Many who relocate here for a job end up staying for the life they build.
About the Role
The Director of HR will lead the full scope of human resources at Nelson Irrigation — from talent strategy and workforce planning to employee relations, compensation, benefits, and organizational development. You'll partner directly with executive leadership to shape a people strategy that supports our growth both locally and internationally while preserving the close-knit, family-owned culture that sets us apart.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement HR strategies, policies, and practices that align with company goals.
- Manage recruitment, onboarding, and retention strategies to attract top talent.
- Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local labor laws and regulations.
- In conjunction with legal, provide assistance with growth into new countries and support to employees and contractors working internationally.
- Manage employee relations, resolve disputes, and conduct investigations when necessary.
- Maintain and update employee handbook, policies and procedures in compliance with all federal, state and local employment laws.
- Partner with operations team to ensure compliance and support for workplace safety.
- Oversee hourly and salaried payroll processing.
- Manage annual benefits renewal, all open enrollment activities, and benefits administration including 401k.
- Oversee compensation structures and market competitiveness.
- Maintain performance management systems and drive talent development initiatives.
- Manage the HR budget and lead an HR team of two, utilizing HRIS technologies for reporting and metrics.
Qualifications
- 8 years of progressive HR experience, including leadership roles
- Bachelor's degree in HR, Business, or related field (SPHR/SHRM-SCP a plus)
- Experience in manufacturing, agricultural, or a related industry preferred
- Proven ability to lead and inspire teams, build trust, and drive organizational change.
- Strong knowledge of employment law, compensation structures, and benefits administration
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- Experience with family-owned or similarly mission-driven organizations a plus
- Proficiency with HRIS systems
What We Offer
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with the majority of premiums paid for you and your family
- Flexible time off and seven paid holidays
- 401k with a total 4% company match and profit sharing
- Relocation assistance
- Fitness membership
- A collaborative, stable work environment in a growing company
- The chance to live in one of the Pacific Northwest's most livable small cities
Equal Opportunity Employer
Nelson Irrigation Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, national origin, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Pay: $140,000.00 - $180,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $140,000 - $180,000