HR Manager

HR Manager (Transportation Industry) Salary: $120K-$140K Location: ONSITE Northeast Houston, TX 77029 About the Role We are partnered with our client, an established transportation company in Houston, TX, seeking an experienced HR Manager to build and lead their first-ever HR function. This is a solo operation with the potential to scale a team as the company grows. The right candidate will be both tactical and strategic, balancing day-to-day HR operations with long-term planning. There is currently an interim HR consultant, so you will have guidance with the transition initially. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, no-nonsense environment, enjoys building processes from scratch, and can adapt quickly without getting bogged down by rigid policies. Our leadership values direct communication, accountability, and results. If you're an entrepreneurial HR leader who can roll up your sleeves, get things done, and help shape the culture of a high-performing team, we'd love to talk. Key Responsibilities HR Operations & Compliance Establish and lead the HR function, creating policies, processes, and best practices that align with business needs. Oversee payroll for approximately 45 employees (experience with HR&P preferred). Manage benefits administration within a collective insurance arrangement for transportation companies. Handle onboarding and orientation, ensuring a smooth and engaging new-hire experience. Lead terminations with professionalism and ensure compliance with labor laws. Employee Engagement & Culture Define what employee engagement means for the company—implement surveys, performance reviews, and initiatives like Employee Appreciation Day. Establish programs to retain and motivate employees in a demanding transportation industry. Serve as a coach and leader, helping to create a performance-driven, high-accountability culture. Strategic & Tactical HR Leadership Partner with leadership to align HR initiatives with company growth and business goals. Adapt and build HR processes—knowing when to follow best practices and when to adjust based on business realities. Be comfortable in an "80% tactical, 20% strategic " role—handling hands-on HR work while also advising leadership on people strategy. Provide direct, candid feedback and be open to receiving the same. What We're Looking For HR experience in a growing company or fast-paced industry (transportation, logistics, or blue-collar workforce preferred). Experience building an HR department or leading HR in a small company. Strong employee relations skills—can handle tough conversations, coach managers, and drive accountability. Comfort working independently while also keeping leadership informed. Ability to balance process and flexibility—knows when to follow structure and when to pivot. Thick-skinned and resilient—not easily offended and can handle direct leadership styles. Why Join Our Client? Opportunity to build HR from the ground up and make a lasting impact. Work directly with leadership in a company that values efficiency and results over bureaucracy. Room to grow the HR team as the company expands. Fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment where no two days are the same. 🚫 No third-party submissions will be accepted. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply directly through LinkedIn.