HR Operations Specialist

GDM Seeds is a global leader in plant genetics, dedicated to transforming agriculture through technological innovation. With a continuous focus on research and development, we bring the most advanced and high‑performing seed varieties to the market, creating new growth opportunities for our partners and for the future of agribusiness.

Our North America portfolio includes leading brands like AgriGold®, DONMARIO®, Mustang™, PRIDE® Seeds, Revere®, and Virtue, supported by a network of research superstations, one of the largest corn genetic pools and the fourth-largest corn research program. Through our combined expertise, we continue to push the boundaries of innovation, delivering top-tier seed solutions to help farmers grow and succeed. GDM’s region-first brand model reinforces the company’s long-standing promise to deliver top-performing genetics and robust agronomic support - ensuring farmers have the right genetics, in the right place, at the right time.

OUR DNA

We are passionate about what we do and driven by curiosity. We believe that learning and innovation are the foundation for transforming the future of agriculture. Our focus is on cutting‑edge genetic development, creating solutions that make a difference in the field and in the global market.

Our DNA not only guides us but also connects us: we work with empathy, transparency, and respect, ensuring agile and flexible operations. Here, you are the protagonist of your career, because we believe every individual plays an essential role in building something greater.

If you are passionate about learning and want to be part of evolving agriculture, GDM is the right place for you!

We are proud to offer a competitive benefits package, which includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match (eligible 1st of the month following date of hire)
• Generous vacation time & paid holidays
• Volunteer Time Off
• Paid parental leave
• Tuition and Health Club reimbursement
• Other benefits: Company paid Long-term and short-term disability insurance, company paid life insurance and optional supplemental life insurance, health savings account (HSA) with a company contribution and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Job Summary:

The HR Operations Specialist supports the execution and administration of the seasonal foreign worker (H-2A) program. This role is responsible for coordinating operational, compliance, and employee-support activities related to seasonal workers from arrival through repatriation. The position requires strong attention to detail, regulatory awareness, and the ability to work independently within established policies while partnering with internal stakeholders and external vendors to ensure compliant and positive employee experience.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Supports the management of seasonal foreign worker program, including petitions and planning process for H-2A visas, logistics, and compliance starting from arrival in the USA until returning to the country of origin.
• Administers and executes seasonal worker benefits, housing, and transportation arrangements, coordinating with internal teams and external vendors to ensure timely and compliant delivery of services.
• Provides first-level support and coordination for seasonal workers involved in workplace accidents or medical emergencies, ensuring appropriate documentation, follow-up, and escalation in accordance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Maintains accurate, complete, and compliant human resources records for seasonal employees, ensuring data integrity and readiness for audits or internal reviews.
• Collects, prepares, and organizes documentation required for H-2A audits and compliance reviews, working closely with HR leadership, legal counsel, and external partners as needed.
• Serves as a primary point of contact for seasonal workers by responding to routine inquiries related to policies, benefits, and employment processes, and escalates complex or sensitive issues to senior HR staff or management.
• Supports the execution of onboarding and offboarding processes for seasonal workers, ensuring consistency, compliance, and positive employee experience.
• Performs additional duties within the scope of the role as assigned, supporting operational and compliance needs of the HR function.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Fluency in Spanish (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally with seasonal employees and external partners.
• Strong employee-service orientation, with the ability to respond promptly to employee inquiries, provide accurate information, and identify opportunities to escalate or improve employee experience.
• High level of discretion and confidentiality when handling sensitive employee and immigration-related information.
• Strong organizational, time management, and attention to detail skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and compliance-driven processes.
• Accuracy, attention to detail, and critical thinking skills, particularly in documentation, audits, and regulatory compliance activities.
• Proficiency with HR-related technology, including Microsoft Office Suite, HRIS, payroll systems, and document management tools.
• Ability to work independently within established guidelines while also collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams and external vendors.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Prior experience with the H-2A visa program preferred.
• Prior related Human Resources experience preferred
• Experience supporting compliance-driven HR processes, including documentation, audits, or regulatory reviews preferred

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.
• May require travel

The approximate pay range in Illinois for this position is $52,000 - $68,000 annually. Performance-based incentives are available based on individual and company achievements. Final compensation for a candidate is commensurate with experience, skills, and education.

GDM is an equal opportunity employer. We are proud to welcome candidates from all backgrounds and encourage you to apply.

Learn more about us at gdmseeds.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @GDMSeeds.