Human Resources Manager

Van Dam Custom Boats is looking for an experienced Human Resources Manager to build and lead the HR function for our campus in Boyne City, supporting 35+ employees across two companies. This is a department-of-one role reporting directly to the Co-Owner and Vice President. You’ll work on campus with a weekly schedule and maintain shop-floor presence, helping create a workplace where employees thrive, feel valued, and can build a career.

Location: Traverse City, MI (onsite)
Salary: USD 70,000 - 90,000 per yearly
Experience: 5+ years

What You’ll Own

• Own the full hiring cycle in partnership with department managers and the Vice President: postings, sourcing, interviewing, offers, plus reference and background checks.
• Deliver new-hire orientation that supports onboarding with proper training, company knowledge, and team integration.
• Administer the full benefits program, including annual open enrollment and employee education tied to elections.
• Maintain compensation structures, support a profit sharing program, and either handle payroll directly or manage the relationship with the payroll provider.
• Run the Performance Management Program so reviews are meaningful, consistent, and on time.
• Build development paths for employees, coordinate leadership development for the management team, and manage training and certification requirements.
• Coach managers through performance and accountability conversations, investigate and resolve concerns with discretion, and keep the employee handbook and policies current, clear, and useful.
• Manage all employee files, develop and maintain employee policies, and research and promote HR best practices to support a positive, compliant workplace.
• Maintain compliance with federal and Michigan employment law, including I-9 and recordkeeping requirements, leave administration, and workers’ compensation claims.
• Steward our 37 cultural fundamentals in daily practice.
• Lead recognition programs, company meetings, and events that help people build a career rather than simply take a job.
• Uphold the commitment to a workplace where employees thrive, feel valued, and encourage others to join the team.

Requirements

• 5+ years of progressive HR experience, including time as a generalist or a department of one.
• Working knowledge of federal and Michigan employment law, benefits administration, and HR information systems.
• Proven experience developing and implementing HR policies, compensation structures, and/or performance management systems.
• Sound judgment and absolute discretion with confidential information.
• Clear, confident communication in writing, one-on-one, and in front of a group.
• Hands-on, proactive approach with a passion for employee engagement and well-being.
• Excellent organization and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

Technologies

• HR information systems

Benefits and Support

• Profit-sharing plan
• 401(k) with company contribution and 401(k) matching
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates
• $200 crew gear allowance in the first year and $150 each year after
• After-hours shop and tool access
• Paid certifications and industry training if applicable and approved
• Company-sponsored events
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Company-paid life insurance
• Employees may purchase additional life, short-term and long-term disability insurance through company group rates
• Employee discounts
• Paid time off and holidays
• Employee assistance program
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance

Nice to Have

• Manufacturing, fabrication, marine, or skilled-trades experience
• SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification
• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, or related field

Payroll Note

Payroll is currently handled by an outside provider. It has worked well for the campus, and the company is open to where it lands long term. If payroll administration is an area you want to own, the role can be built to bring it in house. If you prefer to keep payroll with the provider, you will manage that relationship.

Timeline

• Aug 23, 2026: Applications due
• Aug 10–28: Stage 1 screening calls
• Sept 8–11: Stage 2 on-site interviews in Boyne City
• Sept 28, 2026: Desired start date

How to Apply

Apply via Van Dam Custom Boats | Careers by submitting your letter of interest and resume. Applications are due August 23, 2026.