Human Resources Manager at Gilroy Auto Outlet Inc – Morgan Hill, California

Location: Modesto, CA (Rotating across 5 regional rooftops in the Bay Area and Central Valley)

Compensation: $95,000 – $120,000 Annual Salary

Status: Full-Time, Exempt

Reports to: Director of Operations

SMC Dealership Group is not just a collection of stores; we are a community of five distinct rooftops (four franchise new car dealers and a management company) dedicated to a long-term, employee-centric vision. We believe that a world-class customer experience starts with a world-class employee experience.

We are seeking an HR Manager who thrives on visibility. You won’t be tucked away in a back office; you will be the pulse of our organization, rotating weekly between our locations to build trust, resolve challenges, and champion our culture. Reporting directly to the Director of Operations, you will bridge the gap between high-level strategy and daily "on-the-lot" operations.

1. Employee Relations: Act as the primary advocate for our team members. You will build an environment where people feel heard, valued, and developed, ensuring our "employee-centric" philosophy is felt at every rooftop.

2. Compliance & Risk Mitigation: Partner with our Group Safety Compliance Coordinator to ensure we are 100% compliant with California labor laws, OSHA, and automotive industry regulations.

3. Operational Oversight: While you aren't a payroll clerk, you will own the integrity of the payroll process, benefit renewals, and HRIS data, ensuring our team is paid accurately and supported by competitive benefits.

• Rotational Leadership: Spend dedicated time at each of our 5 locations every week, becoming a familiar and trusted face to technicians, sales teams, and office staff.

• Culture Architect: Develop and implement retention strategies, recognition programs, and career pathing to make SMC the "employer of choice" in the region.

• Strategic Advisory: Coach General Managers and department heads on performance management, conflict resolution, and leadership best practices.

• Recruitment Strategy: Support the hiring of key roles, ensuring we are attracting talent that aligns with our long-term values.

• Compliance & Safety: Work in tandem with the Safety Coordinator to lead audits, update employee handbooks, and manage workers' compensation or leave of absence (LOA) claims.

• Payroll & Benefits Oversight: Manage the relationship with benefit providers and oversee the finalization of payroll to ensure accuracy across all business units.

• Experience: 5+ years of progressive HR experience, preferably in a multi-unit environment (Retail, Hospitality, or Automotive).

• California Expertise: Deep, working knowledge of CA labor laws (Wage & Hour, PAGA, CFRA/FMLA, etc.) is essential.

• High Emotional Intelligence: The ability to navigate different "personalities" at each rooftop—from the service bay to the executive suite.

• Agility: You are comfortable shifting from a high-level strategic meeting with the Director of Operations to a one-on-one mediation on the shop floor.

• Tech Savvy: Proficiency in HRIS and the ADP Total Source-WFN systems and an ability to use data to track turnover and engagement trends.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, or equivalent experience. PHR/SPHR or SHRM-CP/SCP certification is a significant plus.

• Competitive Salary: $95,000 – $120,000 based on experience.

• Comprehensive Benefits: PTO, Training, Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.

• Future-Focused: We are a growing group that values stability and long-term career growth.

• Impact: You have a seat at the table to help define what HR looks like for our future.

SMC Dealership Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.