Human Resources Manager

Position Summary

The Human Resources Manager is responsible for leading the full scope of the Human Resources function, including compliance, employee relations, talent acquisition, onboarding and training, compensation and benefits, career pathing, payroll oversight, workers’ compensation, injury management, unemployment, and leadership coaching.

This role ensures the effective delivery of HR programs, compliance with complex labor laws, and alignment with business objectives. The Human Resources Manager may lead and mentor members of the Human Resources team while driving continuous improvement and organizational effectiveness.

Essential Job Functions

· Lead the Human Resources function for the operating company by managing and directing the work of the HR team to ensure execution and continuous improvement in cultural values, operational performance, and strategic objectives

· Lead, mentor, and coach HR team members

· Champion the effectiveness of HR programs across the entire employee lifecycle

· Lead the talent acquisition process by implementing effective recruiting strategies, increasing social media presence, managing internship programs, participating in school partnerships and career fairs, and developing third-party vendor relationships

· Coach managers and supervisors on leadership development and building high-performing teams

· Provide guidance to ensure employees are aligned to the right roles based on strengths and business needs

· Partner with Cretex on HR initiatives by participating in project charters and leading change implementation within the business

· Participate in annual operating and strategic planning processes

· Utilize lean tools and data analytics to identify and drive continuous improvement opportunities

Compliance & Employee Relations

· Ensure compliance with all applicable country and local labor laws and regulations, including complex wage and hour requirements

· Educate managers and employees on company policies and procedures and administer the progressive discipline process

· Lead performance management initiatives, ensuring timely completion of performance plans and documentation

· Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on employee relations matters and organizational effectiveness

Payroll & HR Operations

· Lead and oversee payroll operations across multiple payroll cycles (including exempt and non-exempt), ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with all wage and hour laws

· Maintain a strong working knowledge of payroll systems, timekeeping processes, and reporting

· Ensure the integrity, accuracy, and maintenance of all employee data within HRIS systems

· Maintain accurate, complete, and compliant employee personnel files

· Ensure efficient onboarding and offboarding processes

Compensation & Benefits

· Lead the compensation planning process, including market analysis, internal equity reviews, and compensation recommendations

· Participate in salary and benefits surveys; assess market competitiveness and recommend adjustments

· Evaluate employee benefits programs for effectiveness and alignment with organizational goals

· Lead vendor management and negotiate benefits contracts to ensure cost-effectiveness and value

Engagement & Culture

· Create and maintain employee recognition programs and promote achievements internally and externally

· Work closely with business leaders to drive employee engagement, performance, and organizational effectiveness

Operational Excellence & Business Partnership

· Support and comply with company Quality Systems, ISO standards, and medical device requirements

· Read, understand, and follow work instructions and standard work

· Partner cross-functionally with sales/marketing, customer service, engineering, quality, and finance

· Understand customer needs and core business markets

· Ensure business systems are implemented, maintained, and functioning effectively

· Maintain an organized work environment (5S)

· Participate in the Operational Excellence Program and required company meetings

· Complete all other duties as assigned

· Ability to work in a manufacturing environment

Minimum Requirements, Education & Experience (incl. KSA’s and certifications)

· Bachelor’s degree in human resources or a related field

· 10+ years of experience across multiple HR disciplines

· 5+ years of employee relations experience

· 5+ years of experience managing direct reports

· Strong knowledge of Costa Rica labor laws and regulations, including wage and hour compliance

· Proven ability to influence, lead change, and act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership

· Excellent interpersonal, coaching, and conflict resolution skills

· Strong analytical and decision-making capabilities

· Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously

· High level of confidentiality, professionalism, and discretion

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills

· Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

· Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented manufacturing environment

Desirable Criteria & Qualifications

· Master’s degree in human resources or a related field

· Experience in medical device or regulated manufacturing environment

· Experience working for a U.S.-based organization and supporting alignment with Cretex priorities