Agwrx Cooperative
Director of Human Resources
Location: Watertown, South Dakota
Position Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Chief Executive Officer
Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with additional hours as organizational needs require
FLSA Status: Exempt
IMPORTANT NOTE: Compensation for this executive role will be commensurate with the selected candidate’s experience, leadership background, and overall qualifications. In accordance with Indeed posting requirements, a salary amount/range must be listed; however, final compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s professional experience and overall fit for the role.
If you were referred to this position by an employee, please indicate that by email or cover letter.
Position Summary
The Director of Human Resources is responsible for leading and managing the organization’s human resources strategy, systems, and employee development initiatives across all Agwrx locations. This role serves as a member of the executive leadership team and provides leadership in talent acquisition, employee relations, organizational development, compensation and benefits administration, compliance, performance management, leadership development, and workforce planning.
The Director of Human Resources plays a critical role in strengthening organizational culture, improving accountability and consistency, supporting leadership development, and ensuring employees are informed, engaged, and supported throughout the organization.
This position requires a highly organized, relationship-driven leader who can build trust and visibility across the company while implementing practical HR systems and processes that support operational excellence and long-term organizational growth.
Relocation to the Watertown area is preferred but not required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Organizational Leadership
- Serve as a strategic partner to the CEO and executive leadership team on organizational development and workforce planning initiatives
- Support and strengthen organizational culture, communication, accountability, and employee engagement across all locations
- Provide leadership and support to managers and supervisors in employee management, leadership development, coaching, and performance improvement
- Assist in succession planning and long-term leadership development initiatives throughout the organization
- Maintain regular visibility and engagement with employees and leaders across all Agwrx locations
- Provide periodic workforce and HR updates to executive leadership and the Board of Directors
Talent Acquisition and Workforce Development
- Lead recruiting, hiring, onboarding, and retention strategies for all departments and locations
- Develop and maintain a strong talent pipeline to support future organizational growth and workforce needs
- Support workforce planning efforts and identify opportunities for leadership and employee development
- Coordinate employee training and professional development initiatives
- Promote Agwrx as an employer of choice within the communities served by the organization
Employee Relations and Performance Management
- Serve as a resource for employee relations matters, conflict resolution, and workplace concerns
- Promote fair, consistent, and professional application of policies and organizational expectations
- Support leaders in managing employee performance, accountability, and corrective action processes
- Assist with development and implementation of performance management systems and leadership expectations
- Foster a positive, respectful, and relationship-focused work environment
HR Operations and Compliance
- Oversee HR systems, employee records, payroll coordination, benefits administration, and related processes
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations
- Maintain and update employee policies, procedures, and handbook materials
- Manage HRIS systems and related reporting functions, including Paycor administration
- Coordinate and support employee benefits administration and annual enrollment processes
- Partner with leadership to ensure organizational policies and practices align with company values and operational goals
Additional Responsibilities
- Coordinate employee onboarding and orientation programs
- Support employee communication initiatives and organizational messaging
- Maintain accurate employee records and HR reporting functions
- Monitor workforce trends and recommend improvements to recruiting and retention strategies
- Partner with operational leaders to support workforce planning and staffing needs
- Coordinate annual performance review and goal-setting processes
- Assist in the administration of compensation planning and employee benefit programs
- Promote a culture of professionalism, accountability, consistency, and teamwork across all locations
- Ensure confidentiality and professionalism in all employee and organizational matters
Safety and Administrative Support
- Support organizational safety initiatives and coordinate with operational leaders on workforce safety practices and compliance
- Assist with internal communication and employee information initiatives
- Support organizational planning and process improvement efforts related to workforce operations and employee engagement
Qualifications
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, or related field preferred
- Equivalent industry experience and demonstrated leadership capabilities will be strongly considered
- Minimum of five years of progressive leadership experience in human resources or organizational leadership preferred
- Experience in agriculture, cooperative business, energy, grain, agronomy, or related industries preferred
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills
- Ability to build relationships and establish credibility across all levels of the organization
- Strong understanding of employment practices, HR systems, compliance requirements, and organizational development
- Ability to balance professionalism, accountability, and employee support in a practical business environment
- Strong conflict resolution and problem-solving abilities
- Ability to manage confidential information with discretion and professionalism
- Experience with HRIS and payroll systems. Paycor experience preferred
- Strong computer and technology skills, including Microsoft Office applications
- Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with leadership and employees across the organization
- Ability to travel regularly between company locations
- Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record
Benefits
Agwrx offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits package designed to support employees and their families, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Pension program
- Paid time off and holidays
- Life Insurance
- Professional development opportunities
- Employee wellness and support programs
- Company-provided tools and resources necessary for success in the role
- Referral Program
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
- Work is performed in both office and operational environments across multiple company locations
- Regular travel to company facilities and locations is required
- Occasional evening meetings and extended hours may be necessary based on organizational needs
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use standard office equipment for extended periods of time
Success Measures
Success in this role will be demonstrated through:
- Increased employee trust, communication, and organizational consistency
- Improved recruiting, retention, and leadership development outcomes
- Strengthened accountability and performance management processes
- Positive employee engagement and workplace culture improvements
- Development of strong leadership capability throughout the organization
- Establishment of Agwrx as an employer of choice within the region
Pay: From $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
