Human Resources Director

About the Role

Weichai America Corporation is seeking a seasoned and strategic Human Resources Director to oversee all HR functions for its North American operations. This pivotal role will act as a key business partner to senior leadership, supporting a dynamic workforce across the industrial machinery, diesel and natural gas engines, manufacturing, engineering, and technology sectors. The HR Director will be instrumental in developing and implementing HR strategies that drive operational excellence, facilitate technical talent acquisition, foster workforce development, enhance employee engagement, ensure compliance, and support overall organizational growth. A strong background in HR leadership within manufacturing, industrial equipment, power systems, or heavy equipment industries is essential.

About Weichai America Corporation

Weichai America Corporation is a proud subsidiary of Weichai Group, a leading global manufacturer of industrial equipment and power solutions. The company specializes in a wide array of products including diesel and natural gas engines, commercial vehicle powertrains, industrial equipment, power generation systems, and applications for off-road and heavy-duty use.

Key Responsibilities

• Spearhead recruitment initiatives for critical engineering, manufacturing, technical, supply chain, and corporate positions.
• Cultivate strategic alliances with technical institutions, universities, and industry bodies to establish robust talent pipelines.
• Administer comprehensive onboarding programs tailored for manufacturing and engineering staff.
• Implement and manage programs focused on leadership development and succession planning.
• Develop and execute HR strategies that align with business objectives and manufacturing operations.
• Collaborate closely with executive leadership on workforce planning, succession strategies, and organizational development.
• Provide HR support for expansion projects, operational scaling, and the development of a skilled technical workforce.
• Champion HR initiatives aimed at boosting productivity, improving retention rates, and increasing employee engagement.
• Cultivate a work environment that emphasizes high performance, safety consciousness, and collaboration.
• Effectively manage employee relations, conduct thorough investigations, and facilitate conflict resolution.
• Support the integration of a multicultural workforce and promote cross-functional teamwork between U.S. and global teams.
• Champion initiatives related to diversity, inclusion, and overall employee engagement.
• Ensure strict adherence to all relevant regulations, including OSHA, EEOC, FLSA, FMLA, ADA, Illinois employment laws, and manufacturing labor standards.
• Maintain and update HR policies, the employee handbook, and established workplace procedures.
• Assist with audits, manage employment documentation, and implement risk mitigation strategies.
• Partner with leadership on workplace safety programs and compliance training.

Required Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive HR experience, including significant time in senior HR leadership capacities.
• Demonstrated experience supporting operations in manufacturing, industrial equipment, power systems, or heavy machinery sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of U.S. labor laws and compliance requirements specific to manufacturing.
• Proven experience in recruiting technical, engineering, and skilled trade talent.
• A track record of success in leadership and organizational development.
• Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution abilities.
• A demonstrated ability to thrive and achieve results in a fast-paced work environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• A Master's degree in Human Resources or an MBA.
• Possession of SHRM-SCP or SPHR certification.
• Experience working within global or multinational corporate structures.
• Experience supporting engineering or industrial product environments subject to EPA regulations.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and operational excellence initiatives.
• Experience supporting business operations with bilingual or cross-cultural components.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Leadership
• Manufacturing Workforce Management
• Technical Talent Acquisition
• Organizational Development
• Employment Law Compliance
• Change Management
• Cross-Cultural Communication
• Employee Engagement
• HR Analytics and Reporting
• Safety and Compliance Orientation

Compensation and Benefits

• A competitive salary ranging from $130,000 to $150,000 annually.
• Eligibility for a performance-based annual bonus, potentially up to 10% of base salary.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• A 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match.
• Generous paid time off and paid holidays.
• Support for professional development and continuous learning.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a global industrial organization.

Work Environment

This is a full-time position based in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, offering an onsite or hybrid work arrangement. The role involves collaboration with both domestic and international teams. Occasional travel to manufacturing, testing, or partner facilities may be necessary.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a proactive, hands-on HR leader with a deep understanding of the unique demands of industrial manufacturing and engineering settings. This individual must be adept at balancing strategic vision with practical operational execution, while simultaneously building strong, collaborative relationships with technical, production, and executive teams.