Human Resources Director

Kuehne Chemical Company, Inc•Kearny, NJ

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Human Resources Director is responsible for leading all HR functions for Kuehne’s New Jersey headquarters and multi-site operations, overseeing a team of HR professionals. This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on execution, ensuring that HR programs support the organization’s mission, operational goals, and compliance obligations within a safety-sensitive, manufacturing environment. The Director serves as a trusted partner to senior leadership while maintaining close visibility into day-to-day HR operations, including recruitment, employee relations, compensation, benefits, performance management, compliance, and career development.

Requirements

Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
Thorough understanding of HR policies, employment law, and best practices.
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS platforms.
Must have reliable transportation.
Must be able to pass a 10-panel controlled substance test and participate in ongoing random testing.
Must be able to pass and maintain eligibility under TSA TWIC background requirements.
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required.
Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 5 years in leadership roles.
PHR, SPHR, or SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP certified.
Working knowledge of multiple HR disciplines, including compensation, benefits and retirement plan administration, employee relations, performance management, and employment law.

Nice To Haves

Experience in manufacturing, industrial, logistics, or similarly regulated environments strongly preferred.
Experience working in unionized environments, including familiarity with union rules, labor relations, and participation in negotiations.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with executive leadership to align HR programs with organizational objectives, workforce planning needs, and company values.
Identify opportunities to improve retention, engagement, and internal advancement across all departments.
Lead and maintain Kuehne Company’s Three Pillars of Wellness programs:
Evaluate and enhance wellness program effectiveness through participation, feedback, and measurable outcomes.
Oversee full-cycle recruitment, onboarding, and workforce planning for all locations.
Develop and maintain competitive compensation, benefits, and incentive programs.
Ensure consistent performance management processes, including coaching and corrective action when needed.
Maintain strict adherence to federal, state, and local employment laws, including OSHA, DOT, EEOC, FMLA, ADA, and TSA/TWIC-related requirements.
Develop, implement, and update HR policies, procedures, and employee handbooks.
Support safety initiatives in collaboration with operations leadership.
Serve as a resource and advisor to managers and employees for conflict resolution, performance matters, and interpretation of policies.
Promote a respectful, equitable, and accountable workplace culture.
Be a key resource of confidentiality for employees in need of support.
Manage HR systems, records, reporting, and departmental budgeting.
Manage and promote use of annual performance review software (Lattice) to promote a culture of continuous improvement and ensure employee engagement.
Recommend process improvements to enhance efficiency, data integrity, and employee experience.
Represent Kuehne at professional HR and industry-related events, as needed.