Design West Technologies, Inc. (DWT) is a leading manufacturer specializing in advanced technology and engineering solutions for the defense industry. Based in Tustin, CA, DWT is committed to delivering high-quality products to support critical defense missions.
We are seeking a strategic and hands-on Senior Director of Human Resources to lead key HR functions, drive talent initiatives, and support our growing team. Reporting to the CEO, the Senior Director of HR will oversee all aspects of HR operations, such as talent acquisition, employee development, performance management, and employee relations. This role is crucial in creating and implementing HR strategies that align with DWT's mission and business goals, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and high performance.
Essential Responsibilities
Strategic HR Leadership: • Work with leadership to develop and implement HR strategies that align with DWT's business goals and culture. • Continuously assess HR processes and propose improvements to enhance employee satisfaction and productivity. • Provide leadership and guidance to the HR team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. • Oversee HR operations managed by the HR team, including onboarding, performance management, benefits administration, and HR systems. • Provide strategic oversight to the HR team on performance management processes, including performance reviews, feedback mechanisms, and development plans.
Talent Acquisition: • Manage and partner with the HR Team to develop and execute talent acquisition strategies that attract top talent and support business growth. • Collaborate with managers to identify workforce needs and develop recruitment strategies. • Manage the recruitment process for executive and management level positions, including job postings, interviewing, and onboarding.
Employee Relations: • Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership and employees on a wide range of HR-related matters, including performance management, disciplinary actions, and conflict resolution. • Develop and implement policies and procedures to promote a positive and inclusive work environment and mitigate risks.
Compensation and Benefits: • Oversee and manage the HR Manager in the administration of payroll, compensation, and benefits, ensuring compliance and accuracy. • Manage relationships with benefits providers and ensure competitive and cost-effective benefits offerings. • Lead annual compensation review processes, including salary benchmarking, merit increases, and bonus programs, to ensure alignment with business objectives and market standards. • Analyze compensation data and trends to make informed recommendations to executive leadership.
Compliance and Policy Management: • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, especially with respect to the defense industry. • Develop, update, and maintain HR policies and employee handbooks to reflect best practices and legal compliance.
Qualifications
Experience: • 10-15 years of experience in human resources management, with proven experience in HR Leadership roles. • Experience overseeing benefits, compensation, employee relations, talent acquisition, and HR operations. • Strong understanding of California and federal employment laws and HR best practices. • Demonstrated ability to develop and execute HR strategies that drive business results and support organizational growth. • Experience in a technology development and manufacturing environment, preferably in the defense industry, is a plus.
Education: • Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field. • Master's degree or HR certification preferred
Skills: • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships across all levels of the organization. • Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills. • Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on HR operations. • Proficiency with HR software and systems for managing employee data and payroll.
Benefits:
Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
401(k) retirement savings plan.
Paid time off and holidays.
Equal Opportunity
DWT is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local fair employment practices laws. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Itar Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.