Human Resources Director

Comfort Systems USA; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Comfort Systems USA is seeking a Human Resources & Payroll Director to lead HR and payroll functions, aligning people strategies with business objectives. The role oversees talent acquisition, performance management, compensation, benefits, payroll, and HR systems while ensuring regulatory compliance.

As a strategic leader, you will partner with executives, drive workforce planning, and mentor HR and payroll teams, supporting a high-performing organizational culture across multiple sites.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, Accounting, or related field required.
• Master's degree preferred for advanced leadership roles.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with business goals.
• Oversee talent acquisition, onboarding, and retention strategies.

Skills

Employment law

Payroll compliance

HRIS & payroll systems

Leadership & coaching

Analytical & PM

Communication skills

Confidentiality & professionalism

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR or related

Master's degree preferred

Tools

HRIS software

Payroll systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position Summary

The Human Resources & Payroll Director provides strategic and operational leadership for all human resources and payroll functions. This role is responsible for developing and implementing people strategies that support business objectives while ensuring compliance with employment laws, company policies, and payroll regulations. The Director oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, compensation, benefits, payroll administration, organizational development, and HR systems. The position also serves as the primary liaison for technology providers and business systems that support company operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Human Resources Leadership

• Partner with executive leadership to develop and execute HR strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Lead workforce planning, succession planning, and organizational development initiatives.
• Develop and maintain policies, procedures, and employee programs that support company culture and operational excellence.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to leaders on employee, staffing, and organizational matters.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and operational efficiencies within HR functions.

Talent Acquisition & Workforce Development

• Oversee recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and retention strategies for all positions.
• Develop and maintain effective workforce planning and talent acquisition processes.
• Support career pathing and succession planning efforts.

Employee Relations & Performance Management

• Provide guidance and coaching to managers regarding employee relations issues.
• Oversee performance management programs and employee development processes.
• Lead investigations involving employee concerns, policy violations, and workplace issues.
• Promote employee engagement and initiatives that foster a positive workplace culture.
• Ensure consistent application of company policies and procedures.

Payroll Administration

• Direct and oversee all payroll processing activities to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local wage and hour laws.
• Collaborate with Finance to support payroll audits, reporting, and reconciliations.
• Evaluate payroll processes and systems to improve efficiency and accuracy.

Compensation & Benefits

• Lead compensation planning, market benchmarking, and salary administration.
• Administer employee benefit programs including facilitation of annual open enrollment.
• Support annual compensation reviews and incentive programs.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
• Oversee HR-related audits, reporting, and record retention practices.
• Maintain knowledge of changing employment legislation and implement necessary updates.
• Ensure proper handling of confidential employee information and company records.

Systems & Technology Support

• Serve as the primary liaison between the company and IT providers.
• Coordinate technology-related projects that impact HR, payroll, and business operations.
• Support administration and optimization of HRIS, payroll, and other business systems.

Leadership & Administration

• Recruit, supervise, mentor, and develop HR and payroll team members.
• Utilize workforce analytics to support strategic business decisions.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives across all areas of responsibility.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, Accounting, or related field required.
• Master’s degree preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive Human Resources experience with increasing leadership responsibilities.
• Experience managing payroll administration and compliance.
• Experience supporting HRIS and business systems.
• Experience in construction, mechanical contracting, manufacturing, or multi-site operations preferred.
• Proven leadership experience managing people, projects, and organizational initiatives.

Certifications (Preferred)

• SHRM-SCP or SPHR
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)
• Other relevant HR certifications

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Comprehensive knowledge of employment law and HR best practices.
• Strong understanding of payroll regulations and compliance requirements.
• Experience with HRIS, payroll, benefits, and workforce management systems.
• Excellent leadership, coaching, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong conflict resolution and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based environment.
• Frequent use of computers and business software systems.
• Occasional travel between company locations and industry events.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.