HCM Systems Manager

At Thorlabs Inc., we’re pushing the boundaries of photonics and laser innovation, and we know that our people are at the core of our success. As we embark on the exciting journey of implementing a new Human Capital Management (HCM) system, we’re seeking a dynamic HCM Manager who will play a pivotal role in empowering our organization. This is a rare opportunity to shape the way our teams connect, grow, and thrive, ensuring that our people strategy fuels the cutting-edge work that transforms industries and drives the future of technology. We’re about to take a major leap forward: launching our first Human Capital Management (HCM) system, and looking for a hands-on, strategic HCM Systems Manager ready to guide us through this journey. This role is equal parts program ownership, change leadership, system strategy, and analytics. You’ll not only be a key partner in implementing the platform, but you’ll also help shape how our people experience work for years to come, and ensure the system continues to evolve with our business and industry trends. What You’ll Do Partner on implementation: Collaborate closely with HR, IT, Finance, and external vendors to ensure the system meets business needs. Drive adoption: Support and influence change and communication strategies that help teams embrace new ways of working. Be the translator: Bridge the gap between technical capabilities and practical business needs, ensuring solutions work in real life, not just on paper. Own reporting & analytics: Build dashboards and insights that help leaders transform workforce data into better business decisions. Lay the foundation: Create governance, standards, and processes that set us up for long-term success. Continuously improve: Once live, optimize workflows and expand functionality as the business grows. Requirements What You Bring Bachelor’s degree or equivalent business-related experience; Masters degree or SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP a plus 5-7 years of experience in a similar role supporting HCM or HRIS systems (e.g., UKG or Dayforce). Experience leading HCM implementations (UKG, Dayforce, or similar). Strong understanding of HR including typical processes and procedures, KPIs, and business drivers Strong change management and stakeholder engagement skills: you know how to bring people along, especially first-time users. Analytical strength combined with the communication skills to make data meaningful for leadership Ability to manage complexity: balancing system design, data integrity, compliance, and user experience. A collaborative style, with the confidence to influence across levels and functions. Why This Role Matters This is more than a systems job. It’s a rare opportunity to lead a once-in-a-generation shift for our company: moving to a modern, digital HR experience. You’ll have the chance to design, influence, and own a program that will touch every employee, every day. Beyond implementation, you’ll be the long-term owner of our HCM system, ensuring it evolves, stays current, and delivers insights that power the future of our business. We’re looking for someone who’s led HCM implementations before, thrives on change, and wants the challenge (and reward) of bringing a company into the future. Ready to own it? Apply now and help us make history. Salary Range for this position is $117,000- $153,000 D.O.E. Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law. Benefits Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few..