TL;DR – HiBob leads the list of HR software for manufacturing companies thanks to its ability to centralize scheduling, payroll, compliance, and employee engagement in one platform. Explore 10 other options below to find the right fit for your manufacturing business.
Running HR in a manufacturing business is no small feat. You’re managing shift schedules, safety training, payroll for hourly and salaried team members, and compliance across multiple sites. The right HR software can take these moving parts and bring them together in one system to streamline operations, keeping your teams productive and safe.
Yet, despite its potential, nearly six in 10 employers underutilize their human resource information systems (HRIS). For manufacturers, that means leaving efficiency gains, cost savings, and better individual experiences on the table. When fully utilized, these tools can automate repetitive tasks, surface actionable data, and help you meet industry-specific needs like tracking certifications or managing complex pay rules.
This guide walks through the best HR software for manufacturing companies so you can choose a solution that supports your people, reduces administrative strain, and makes every shift run smoother.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect HiBob’s views. Prospective users are encouraged to conduct their own research to make the best decision for their organization.
Best HR software for manufacturing businesses: Quick overview
We reviewed 11 of the leading HR platforms for the manufacturing industry based on workforce management features, scheduling capabilities, compliance tools, and integration with payroll systems. Each option below details the type of manufacturing business it fits best.
- HiBob: Best for mid-sized to large manufacturing companies that want to centralize core HR, scheduling, and performance management tools in a user-friendly platform
- ADP Workforce Now: Best suited for mid-sized to large manufacturers needing full HCM capabilities, payroll, and compliance support
- BambooHR: A fit for small to mid-sized manufacturers looking for straightforward HR, onboarding, and time-off management
- Ciphr: Suited for mid-sized manufacturing businesses in the UK that need configurable HR, payroll, and compliance tools
- Deel: Works for manufacturers with distributed or international teams, providing multi-country payroll and contractor management
- Factorial: Good for small to mid-sized manufacturers seeking cloud-based HR with scheduling, leave management, and document storage
- Paycor: Geared toward small to mid-sized manufacturing companies needing payroll, scheduling, and compliance tracking
- Personio: Works for European SMB manufacturers that want integrated HR, payroll, and time tracking
- Rippling: Fits mid-sized to large manufacturers wanting HR, payroll, IT, and compliance in a unified system
- Workday: Built for large manufacturing enterprises needing enterprise-grade HCM, workforce planning, and compliance tools
- Zoho People: A flexible choice for small to mid-sized manufacturers looking for affordable HR, attendance, and shift scheduling features
The importance of HR software in the manufacturing industry
Managing HR operations in the manufacturing industry has more moving parts than a typical office job. You’re juggling complex shift patterns, keeping safety certifications up-to-date, and managing a workforce that’s often spread across multiple sites.
Without the right system in place, manufacturing HR teams can face challenges like:
- Scheduling errors that disrupt production
- Missing or expired safety certifications
- Payroll mistakes that lead to compliance issues
- Difficulty filling roles quickly in a competitive labor market
- Limited visibility into workforce performance and costs
The right HR software acts as your central hub, replacing disconnected spreadsheets and manual processes with a single, easy-to-access system. A powerful HR software can help you:
- Automate scheduling for multiple shifts, overtime, and rotating rosters, so production always stays on schedule
- Store records of safety training, equipment operation licenses, and HR compliance requirements in one place
- Post jobs, manage applicants, and set up new joiners with the right tools and training before their first day on the floor
- Handle different pay rules, overtime calculations, and deductions without manual intervention
- Spot absenteeism trends, track HR KPIs, and identify where extra support or resources are needed
- Stay ready for audits with accurate records, documented safety protocols, and adherence to labor laws across regions
Best HR software platforms for manufacturing companies
Let’s look at the best HR software platform for manufacturing businesses on the market today.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect HiBob’s views. Prospective users are encouraged to conduct their own research to make the best decision for their organization.
HiBob
HR leaders at manufacturing companies of all sizes use HiBob’s intuitive platform to bring together core HR tasks like onboarding new joiners, tracking paid time off (PTO) requests, and monitoring shift-based performance metrics. Leaders can share updates, celebrate milestones, and promote a cohesive culture across multiple locations via HiBob’s communication tools. HiBob’s automation and customization also take the heavy lifting out of scheduling, compliance reporting, and training record management, so HR teams focus on the people that keep production moving smoothly.
Key features:
- Core HR: Automate essential HR tasks, maintain accurate personnel records, and create reports to streamline daily operations
- Time and Attendance: Track hours worked, overtime, and shift changes
- Compensation: Manage pay structures, bonuses, and overtime policies across different roles and locations
- Hiring: Manage job postings for plant, warehouse, and office roles, track candidates, and streamline interview scheduling
Pricing: Contact the HiBob team for a custom plan
Discover how HiBob helps manufacturing companies manage their people.
ADP Workforce Now
ADP Workforce Now helps manufacturing companies centralize HR, payroll, scheduling, and compliance in one platform. It automates repetitive admin tasks like onboarding and shift-based payroll, supporting smoother operations on the shop floor. Built-in compliance tools help manufacturers stay audit-ready across multiple jurisdictions.
Key features:
- Payroll and time tracking: Automate shift-based pay, overtime calculations, and direct deposit
- Recordkeeping and compliance logging: Maintain team member records, certification statuses, customized dashboards, and compliance reports
- Onboarding: Use fillable forms, e‑I‑9, and document acknowledgement features to standardize hiring
- ADP Marketplace: Connect with external ERP or scheduling systems
Pricing: Pricing is not publicly available
(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the ADP website as of the publication date.)
BambooHR
BambooHR offers manufacturing teams a centralized system for team data, payroll, and hiring. It supports hourly shift-based operations and global teams, with tools to simplify candidate management, compliance, and workforce reporting across locations.
Key features:
- Centralized data: Store team data and generate custom people data reports
- Payroll, time, and benefits: Manage payroll, hour tracking, and benefits in a unified workflow
- Hiring: Post jobs, review applications collaboratively, and automate candidate-to-team member record transfer
- Integrations: Connect to over 150 external tools
Pricing: Pricing is not publicly available
(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the BambooHR website as of the publication date.)
<<Compare HiBob vs. BambooHR and see which fits your business best>>
Ciphr
Ciphr supports manufacturers by simplifying workforce management, from hiring and onboarding to time-off tracking. Self-service access allows factory floor professionals to manage requests independently, improving HR responsiveness and record accuracy. Ciphr also offers configurable dashboards and analytics tools to monitor HR metrics and share insights with leaders.
Key features:
- Self-service: Allow team members to request time off, update personal info, and access documents on their own
- Onboarding: Automate onboarding steps, policy acknowledgments, and secure document management
- Dashboards: Create customized dashboards and scheduled reports for decision-makers
- Absence management: Track holidays, sickness, and entitlements with shared visibility and analytics
Pricing: Pricing is not publicly available
(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Ciphr website as of the publication date.)
Deel
Deel helps global manufacturing companies manage payroll, compliance, and workforce operations across borders. With capabilities for contractors, EOR hires, and full-time staff, manufacturers can scale hiring without legal complexity.
Key features:
- Global payroll and compliance: Manage payroll, tax deductions, filing, and compliance across 130+ countries
- Global worker management: Handle employees, contractors, and EOR staff in one system
- Workflow automation: Automate onboarding, document management, time-off, performance, and payroll tasks
- Compliance Hub: Receive real-time legal updates and risk alerts for global workforce management
Pricing:
- Deel HR: Free
- Deel Engage: $20/mo per person
(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Deel website as of the publication date.)
Factorial
Factorial provides time tracking, document management, and payroll solutions designed for fast-paced environments like manufacturing. The platform supports customizable document management, approvals, and automated workflows. They also offer a mobile app to keep teams connected from the road.
Key features:
- Time tracking: Track clock-ins, breaks, and shifts with mobile tools like QR code clock-ins and geolocation
- Time off: Automate time-off requests and approvals on a centralized shared calendar.
- Reports: Build custom dashboards and HR reports for productivity and workforce insights
- Document Management System: Securely store, arrange, and manage approval workflows for documents and pay slips
Pricing: Starts at $4.50/mo per user
(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Factorial website as of the publication date.)
Paycor
Paycor helps manufacturing companies manage payroll, labor tracking, and compliance from a unified platform. Its predictive analytics tools provide actionable insights into workforce performance and labor cost efficiency.
Managers can also access reminders and notifications for team recognition, self-service, and leader insights.
Key features:
- Payroll: Access flexible pay options, real-time calculations, earned wage access, and tax compliance alerts
- Workforce management: Combine time-off, hour tracking, and overtime monitoring into one view
- Core HR: Support self-service, automated workflows, and paperless document handling
- Analytics: Access AI-powered insights for trends in headcount, turnover, compensation, and retention
Pricing: Pricing is not publicly available
(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Paycor website as of the publication date.)
Personio
Personio supports manufacturers with an HR system that handles recruiting, time tracking, and performance reviews across distributed teams. Automations free up time for frontline managers while maintaining accuracy across HR processes.
Key features:
- Cloud HR: Centralize recruiting, onboarding, time tracking, performance reviews, and payroll
- Smart Automations: Enable AI to suggest workflows, highlight tasks, and help automate HR routines
- Onboarding and offboarding: Handle structured processes for welcoming new joiners and managing departures
- Marketplace: Receive support for over 200 integrations and custom workflows.
Pricing: Pricing is not publicly available
(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Personio website as of the publication date.)
<<Compare HiBob vs. Personio to see which fits your business best>>
Rippling
Rippling is a workforce management platform that covers HR, payroll, IT, and finance management for manufacturing teams. It streamlines onboarding and offboarding, automates device and app provisioning, and centralizes data for reporting and security. It also supports over 600 integrations.
Key features:
- HRIS: Centralize data, reporting, and insights via a shared data model.
- Device management: Provision devices and apps automatically when someone joins or leaves the company
- Global payroll and benefits: Handle pay, benefits, and compliance across multiple locations with payroll processing
- Attribute-based access control: Apply granular role-based permissions
Pricing: Pricing is not publicly available
(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Rippling website as of the publication date.)
<<Compare HiBob vs. Rippling to see which fits your business best>>
Workday
Workday empowers manufacturing companies to manage complex workforce needs, from shift coverage to succession planning. Its AI-driven tools support production forecasting, skill mapping, and organizational planning at scale. Workday places a strong emphasis on skills data and AI-powered talent matching.
Key features:
- Global workforce management: Manage HR data, structures, and staffing across global operations
- Workday Illuminate: Surface predictive analytics and personalized recommendations to guide talent and compensation strategies
- Payroll: Automate payroll accuracy, compliance, and real-time auditing
- Skills and organizational modeling: Build and evaluate workforce skills with org charts and role modeling
Pricing: Pricing is not publicly available
(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Workday website as of the publication date.)
<<Compare HiBob vs. Workday to see which fits your business best>>
Zoho People
Zoho People offers affordable HR tools built for growing manufacturing teams. From geolocation time tracking to flexible shift scheduling, it helps managers streamline operations across distributed worksites and departments. Zoho People can support both small and large manufacturing organizations.
Key features:
- Core HR: Central hub for files, self-service, and data security
- Attendance: Access mobile-enabled time tracking, geolocation-based shifts, and flexible leave policies
- Performance and compensation: Manage goal-setting, reviews, and salary structures
- HR analytics: Access custom dashboards, smart workflows, and daily task automation
Pricing:
- Essential HR: $1.50/mo per user
- Professional: $2.50/mo per user
- Premium: $3.50/mo per user
- Enterprise: $5.00/mo per user
- People Plus: $10.00/mo per user
(This article includes platform features and pricing platforms that reflect the information available on the Zoho website as of the publication date.)
Key features to look for in manufacturing HR software
When choosing HR software for a manufacturing environment, look for tools that handle the unique demands of a large, often distributed, and highly regulated workforce. Focus on features like:
Time off tracking
Unplanned absences can slow production lines and increase overtime costs. Automated time-off tracking ensures every shift is covered by logging requests, approvals, and balances in real time. In practice, this means you can see exactly how vacation requests will affect production schedules before approving them.
Digital filing
Manufacturing HR teams juggle high volumes of compliance documents, safety certifications, and training records. Digital filing keeps everything organized and searchable, so you can pull up proof of a forklift certification or Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliance in seconds. This reduces audit stress and saves hours of digging through paper files.
Retention management
Manufacturing turnover can be costly, both in training time and lost productivity. Retention features help you track team member satisfaction, identify at-risk talent, and act early to keep your best people. For example, a dashboard showing increased turnover in a specific plant could reveal the need for targeted manager training or shift schedule changes.
Training
You’ll likely always have new joiners training or current people upskilling. HR software with training modules lets you assign courses, track completions, and set automatic reminders for recertifications. For example, you can ensure every machine operator completes an annual safety refresher before stepping back onto the floor.
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Ease of use
If the system is too complex, adoption will be low, especially among floor managers who already have tight schedules. Choose HR software with an intuitive interface that makes tasks like approving leave or pulling reports quick and simple. A shift supervisor should be able to log in and find exactly what they need quickly.
Find the right HR software for your manufacturing business
The right HR tool streamlines shift scheduling, helps manage compliance, and gives managers the insights they need to support their people. It also helps create a safer, more connected workplace where everyone can focus on delivering their best work.
For those looking for an all-in-one HR solution, consider HiBob. HiBob makes it easy to manage time tracking, onboarding, training, and more. All while uniting your manufacturing sites and teams under one system, anywhere in the world.
Learn what HiBob can do for your manufacturing company.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect HiBob’s views. Prospective users are encouraged to conduct their own research to make the best decision for their organization.
