The role

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Senior Human Resources Generalist to support all aspects of Human Resources at our Chicago manufacturing facility. This hands-on role serves as a key partner to leaders and employees by driving HR initiatives, ensuring compliance with employment laws and company policies, and delivering exceptional employee support throughout the employee lifecycle.

The successful candidate will have experience across employee relations, recruiting, payroll administration, benefits, compliance, and HR operations within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This individual thrives on the plant floor, builds strong relationships at all levels of the organization, and is passionate about creating a positive workplace culture that supports operational excellence.

This position is based on-site at our Chicago, IL facility and reports to the Strategic Business Partner as part of the Operations team.

What You'll Do

• Serve as a trusted advisor to leaders and employees, providing guidance on employee relations, performance management, organizational effectiveness, and HR policy interpretation.
• Lead and administer key HR programs, including employee engagement, benefits, leave of absence management, accommodations, and employee support services.
• Partner with business leaders on workforce planning, talent management, succession planning, retention strategies, and organizational development initiatives.
• Manage employee relations matters, including investigations, conflict resolution, corrective actions, performance improvement plans (PIPs), and policy compliance.
• Lead and participate in labor relations activities, including collective bargaining and union negotiations, grievance administration, CBA interpretation, disciplinary matters, and day-to-day partnership with union representatives.
• Support full-cycle talent acquisition activities, including recruitment, interviewing, selection, onboarding, and integration of new team members.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws while maintaining adherence to company policies, procedures, and HR best practices.
• Analyze HR metrics and workforce data to identify trends, provide insights, and recommend actions that improve employee experience and business performance.
• Oversee payroll, timekeeping, and HRIS processes to ensure data integrity, reporting accuracy, and regulatory compliance.
• Maintain employee records, documentation, and reporting requirements while driving continuous improvement and process optimization across HR functions.
• Collaborate with operations and leadership teams to enhance employee engagement, leadership capability, workforce development, and a positive workplace culture.
• Support change management initiatives, organizational restructuring efforts, and strategic HR projects that align with business objectives.

Who you are

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of HR generalist experience required, including experience supporting labor relations.
• Well-rounded HR professional with experience in payroll administration, benefits, employee relations, recruiting, and timekeeping systems.
• Strong understanding of employment laws, HR compliance requirements, and human resources best practices.
• Proven ability to build effective relationships and influence leaders and employees at all levels of the organization.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, with strong HR systems aptitude.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.

Health, Safety, Physical & Travel Requirements

• Office and plant environment; regular sitting, standing, and computer use required
• Up to 5% travel with occasional overnight stays; valid driver's license required

Life at Dakkota

Our success is rooted in meaningful relationships and a culture that feels like family. We champion compassion, respect, and work-life balance, while supporting each team member's personal and professional growth. Through ongoing development, competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package, we empower our people to thrive both at work and in life.

The pay range for this role is $80,000- $95,000 per year. This role is also eligible for bonus/incentive pay. The pay range listed for this position represents a good-faith estimate of potential compensation at the time of posting. Actual pay may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, and location. This range is subject to change in the future and does not guarantee a specific salary.

Our benefits include paid time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a 401(k) plan for eligible employees.

Explore everything we have to offer at Dakkota Careers!