Job Details

Overview

The Vice President of Human Resources (VP of HR) will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for developing and implementing HR strategies that support the shipyard's operational goals, workforce needs, and long-term growth. This role oversees all aspects of human resources, including talent acquisition, employee relations, training and development, compensation, benefits, compliance, and workforce planning. The VP of HR ensures that the shipyard maintains a safe, compliant, and productive workplace that attracts and retains skilled employees in a competitive maritime industry.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership
  • Partner with executive leadership to align HR initiatives with business objectives.
  • Provide workforce planning to meet the demands of shipyard operations, including trades, supervisory, and management positions.
  • Develop and maintain HR policies tailored to the unique needs of a small shipyard environment.
• Talent Acquisition & Retention
  • Oversee recruiting strategies to attract skilled tradespeople and management staff during a period of headcount growth.
  • Build relationships with local schools, training programs, and workforce agencies to develop a pipeline of talent.
  • Implement retention initiatives to reduce turnover and maintain workforce stability.
• Employee Relations & Engagement
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to managers and employees, promoting a positive work culture.
  • Manage conflict resolution, disciplinary actions, and employee grievance processes.
  • Lead engagement programs that foster teamwork, safety, and career growth.
• Training & Development
  • Oversee employee onboarding, compliance training, and ongoing skill development programs.
  • Support leadership development for supervisors and foremen.
• Compensation, Benefits & Compliance
  • Manage competitive compensation and benefits programs that balance cost and employee satisfaction.
  • Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local labor laws, including OSHA, EEOC, FMLA, ADA, and maritime-specific regulations.
• Health, Safety & Risk Management
  • Collaborate with Safety and Operations teams to reinforce a safe shipyard environment.
  • Support injury/illness management and workers' compensation processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, preferably within manufacturing, construction, or maritime/shipyard environments.
• Strong knowledge of labor laws, compliance requirements, and safety regulations relevant to shipyard operations.
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead HR teams in a small-to-mid-sized business environment.
• Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and leadership skills.
• SHRM-SCP, SPHR, or similar certification preferred.