Director, People Operations

This is the first new magnetic material in 40 years. Niron Magnetics is commercializing the world’s first advanced manufacturing process for the mass production of permanent magnets powered by its breakthrough material formulation. The company’s proprietary magnet technology based on Iron Nitride enables magnets that are inherently high in magnetization, free of rare earths and other critical materials, and solve supply chain reliability challenges, will drive innovation in numerous industries. Headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, Niron Magnetics is comprised of a team of professionals with a desire to make a positive impact on the global community. We were named one of “America's Top GreenTech Companies” for 2024 and 2025 by TIME Magazine and the “Innovation of the Year” at the 2025 mHUB Fourth Revolution Awards.

Our team is made up of people who think big, dare to innovate, and strive to impact the planet through technological innovation for our customers. Ready to work alongside amazing people, solve complex problems, and leave a legacy? Join us.

What you’ll do

We believe that people are the heart of innovation. As the Director of People Operations, you’ll partner directly with the Chief People Officer to architect and scale the foundations of our People function. This role blends strategy, systems, and hands-on execution in a high-growth environment.

Strategy Design and Execution

• Design and execute key HR and talent strategies – including talent acquisition, benefits, HRIS, and onboarding
• Ensure our people practices reflect and reinforce our culture, mission, and values
• Collaborate across the company to embed the voice of the employee and our business strategy in program design

Talent Acquisition Leadership

• Co-create the People Roadmap with the CPO to forecast talent needs
• Own the end-to-end candidate lifecycle from employer brand to onboarding
• Partner with hiring managers and recruiters to attract and retain top talent

Core People Operations

• Lead payroll, benefits, visas, and other essential HR operations
• Partner with managers and external partners to execute critical people processes
• Evaluate and evolve benefits offerings aligned with employee needs and company growth

HR Systems & Data

• Lead the implementation and optimization of HRIS platforms including the introduction of new HR systems to create the right architecture for the employee experience
• Partner closely with IT on LMS and all other HR systems to ensure compatibility and integration
• Work closely with CPO and Director of Talent to develop and track key HR metrics

Compliance & Records Management

• Ensure compliance with federal, state and local employment laws and regulations
• Maintain and update employee handbooks and policies
• Keep accurate and secure employee records
• Build an Employee Relations process for investigations and ensure process adoption

What we’re looking for

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, industrial relations, business, or related field
• 10 years of progressive experience combining talent acquisition and HR operations
• Experience building and designing core HR processes – we need someone who likes to build!
• Strategic thinker with strong execution and analytical skills
• Proactive, results-oriented, and resilient
• Strong communicator with the ability to influence at all levels
• Trusted partner with sound judgement and business acumen

Nice to Have

• Master’s degree in HR or related field
• Experience in pre-revenue business or high-growth companies
• Ability to grow with company and take on broader scope, add team members as needed

Our pay and benefits

• Salary: $125,000-185,000 annually, depending on education, experience, and skills
• Equity position in Niron via stock option grant
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Mental healthcare
• 401k plan with company match
• Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
• Experience in high growth venture backed manufacturing start-up