Newrest is seeking an experienced, hands-on Human Resources Manager to help launch two exciting inflight catering operations. This is a unique opportunity for an HR professional who thrives in fast-paced, start-up environments and wants to play a key role in building a successful operation from day one.

This position will be based primarily in San Diego, California, for approximately the first nine months while supporting the start-up of our new inflight catering unit. Following the successful launch, the HR Manager will transition to Portland, Oregon, where they will lead the opening and ongoing HR operations for our Portland unit.

If you're looking for a traditional office HR role, this is not it. We're looking for someone who enjoys being on the production floor, solving problems in real time, building teams, and partnering with operations to make things happen.

What You'll Do

As the HR Manager, you will serve as the primary HR leader for a growing operation of approximately 150 employees. You will partner closely with local leadership to establish HR processes, build a positive culture, and ensure compliance while supporting the daily needs of the operation.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead all aspects of HR during the start-up and ongoing operation of two new inflight catering facilities.
• Recruit, hire, onboard, and retain hourly and salaried employees.
• Partner with operations leadership to support staffing, employee relations, engagement, and performance management.
• Coach and develop supervisors and managers on employee issues, policy interpretation, and leadership best practices.
• Conduct workplace investigations and resolve employee relations matters promptly and professionally.
• Ensure compliance with federal, California, Oregon, and local employment laws.
• Administer leaves of absence, accommodations, workers' compensation, unemployment claims, and other employee programs.
• Maintain HR records, reporting, and compliance documentation.
• Support payroll, benefits administration, and HRIS processes.
• Help establish HR policies, procedures, and best practices during the launch phase.
• Foster a culture focused on safety, accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.

This Is a Working Manager Position

Success in this role requires someone who leads by example. You'll spend as much time on the production floor as you do behind a desk. Whether interviewing candidates, assisting with orientation, coaching supervisors, resolving employee issues, or supporting operational needs, you'll be actively involved in the day-to-day business.

We're looking for someone who isn't afraid to roll up their sleeves, adapt quickly, and help build two successful operations from the ground up.

Why Newrest?

Newrest is one of the world's leading independent providers of inflight catering and hospitality services, operating in more than 50 countries with over 60,000 employees worldwide. We continue to expand across North America, providing exciting opportunities for professionals who enjoy growth, challenge, and making a meaningful impact.

If you're passionate about building teams, supporting operations, and creating successful workplaces, we'd love to hear from you.

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is energetic, resilient, and comfortable working in an environment where priorities change quickly. You should enjoy building processes, solving problems, and working alongside operations leaders to achieve results.

Qualifications include:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Five or more years of progressive Human Resources experience, including HR management responsibilities.
• Extensive working knowledge of California employment law and Oregon employment law.
• Experience supporting manufacturing, logistics, food production, distribution, airport operations, or similarly fast-paced environments preferred.
• Strong experience with employee relations, investigations, recruiting, compliance, and performance management.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Ability to make sound decisions in a fast-moving environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and HRIS systems.

PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP certifications are preferred.

Travel & Work Expectations

This role requires flexibility and a strong commitment during the launch of both facilities.

• Work primarily in San Diego, CA for approximately the first nine months.
• Relocate and work primarily in Portland, OR following the San Diego start-up.
• Expect extended workdays, weekend work, and a demanding schedule during start-up operations.
• Be highly visible on the production floor and available to support all shifts as business needs require.