HR Operations Coodinator at Virnig Manufacturing, Inc. – Fort Madison, Iowa

The HR & Operations Coordinator plays a key role in launching and supporting a new manufacturing facility. This position is responsible for helping build the people, processes, and day-to-day structure needed to support plant startup and ongoing operations.

This is a hands-on role that requires a high level of organization, adaptability, and ownership. The position will support high-volume hiring, onboarding, employee support, and administrative operations while helping establish consistent HR and office practices from the ground up.

The ideal candidate is comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment and is willing to step in wherever needed to support the success of the operation. This role is designed to grow with the operation and is expected to evolve into a primary on-site HR partner role, supporting leadership, employee relations, and ongoing HR operations as the facility becomes fully operational.

Startup & Hiring Support

Compensation & Benefits

Start hourly: $26–$30/hr

Benefits Package Includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with employer match
• Generous PTO including vacation and paid holidays
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Life insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Opportunities for growth and development

Startup & Hiring Support

• Support full-cycle recruiting efforts for hourly and salaried roles during plant startup
• Coordinate interviews, scheduling, and candidate communication
• Assist in building and maintaining candidate pipelines
• Partner with leadership to support workforce ramp-up and hiring timelines
• Support and execute onboarding processes to ensure a strong new hire experience

Employee Support & HR Partnership

• Serve as a visible and accessible resource for employees and leaders
• Provide day-to-day HR support including employee questions, guidance, and issue resolution
• Partner with leaders to support performance conversations and employee development
• Escalate complex or sensitive matters to HR leadership as needed

HR Administration & Compliance

• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records and documentation
• Support compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws
• Assist with leave administration, unemployment claims, and required reporting
• Support HR program implementation and policy communication

Payroll, Timekeeping & Workers’ Compensation Support

• Help resolve employee pay and timekeeping questions
• Support workers’ compensation processes, including communication and follow-up
• Assist with return-to-work coordination and documentation

Operations & Office Coordination

• Support day-to-day office operations including supplies, organization, and administrative needs
• Help establish and maintain organized, efficient workflows in a startup environment
• Assist with coordination of onboarding, training sessions, and plant communication
• Step in where needed to support operational and administrative priorities during startup

• 2+ years of experience in HR, recruiting, or administrative support
• Experience in a manufacturing or fast-paced environment preferred
• Experience supporting hourly workforce and frontline leaders preferred
• Experience with HRIS systems (Paylocity preferred)
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, changing environment
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• High level of integrity and discretion with confidential information
• Ability to provide practical, solution-focused support
• Willingness to be hands-on and support both HR and operational needs