Sr. HR Generalist - High Speed Door Shops

Build Your Future with Woodgrain

Looking for stability, growth, and long-term career opportunity? Join Woodgrain—one of the world’s leading millwork manufacturers and distributors. With over 70 years of craftsmanship, a strong family-owned culture, and continued expansion across the U.S. and South America, now is the time to grow with us. 

About the Role

The HR Generalist III supports the Human Resources Business Partner and site leadership by implementing and administering HR programs at the Newington, CT, location. This role serves as a trusted advisor to leaders and team members, handling complex HR matters with a high degree of judgment and discretion while driving compliance, engagement, and workforce effectiveness.  The primary focus is standing up a new high-speed door shop operation adjacent to an existing site, including a ~200,000 sq ft facility build-out, equipment installation, hiring ~100 employees, and launching full-scale production operations.

Role Type

Primary: Greenfield Build

Secondary: Launch and Stabilization 

This is not a maintenance or turnaround role. It is a build → launch → stabilize leadership role.

What You’ll Do

HR Operations & Program Execution

•    Implement and administer core HR programs, including staffing, onboarding, performance management, compensation, and compliance

•    Maintain accurate personnel records and ensure timely HR transactions

•    Support HR initiatives, communications, and training programs

Employee Relations & Compliance

•    Handle complex employee relations matters, including investigations, documentation, and corrective action guidance

•    Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws (EEO, FMLA, ADA, wage & hour, etc.)

•    Provide risk-based recommendations and escalate high-risk issues as needed

Leadership Support & Coaching

•    Serve as a trusted advisor to leaders on performance management, policy interpretation, and workplace concerns

•    Provide coaching to leaders on employee engagement, conduct, and team effectiveness

•    Support workforce planning and organizational needs

Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning

•    Support recruiting, selection, and onboarding efforts

•    Partner with leaders to identify workforce challenges and implement solutions

•    Help ensure a consistent, compliant, and positive candidate and new hire experience

Data, Analytics & Continuous Improvement

•    Collect, analyze, and interpret HR data to identify trends and support decision-making

•    Recommend improvements to enhance retention, engagement, and operational effectiveness

Team Leadership & Development

•    Provide guidance, coaching, and mentoring to less experienced HR team members or site leaders

•    Lead or support HR projects, programs, and process improvements

What You Bring

•    Strong experience in employee relations, compliance, and HR program administration

•    Ability to manage complex and sensitive situations with sound judgment and discretion

•    Strong communication and relationship-building skills across all levels

•    Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and trends

•    Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently

Education & Experience

•    Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field (preferred)

•    4–6 years of progressive HR experience, preferably in manufacturing, distribution, or operations environments 

•    Experience handling employee relations, coaching leaders, and administering HR programs

•    HR certifications (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP) preferred

Work Environment

•    On-site role supporting both office and operational environments

•    Regular interaction with manufacturing, warehouse, and distribution settings

•    Exposure to varying conditions (noise, equipment, temperature) when in operational areas

•    Minimal travel (<10%) 

Why Woodgrain?

We invest in our people and provide a strong, supportive workplace:

•    Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

•    HSA / FSA options

•    401(k) with company match

•    Paid time off 8 holidays floating holiday

•    Life insurance and disability coverage

•    Employee Assistance Program 

Additional Information

•    This is an on-site position in Newington, CT

•    Pre-employment background check and drug screening required

•    Woodgrain is a drug-, alcohol-, and tobacco-free workplace

Equal Opportunity Employer

Woodgrain is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.