Saucier succeeds in HR role

Linda Saucier, the senior human resources (HR) representative at Hanover, N.H.-based Spectra Inc. since July 2000, enjoys her position. She takes care of many of the company's HR duties: everything from recruiting to interviewing to new employee orientation.

Founded in 1984, Spectra Inc., a manufacturer of piezoelectric (PZT) ink jet printheads and related consumables and accessories, has always been based in Hanover. Spectra has created drop-on-demand ink jet printheads capable of producing high-performance digital images in a wide variety of printing and fluid jetting applications. The company invests heavily in research and development, maintaining one of the most capable Ink Jet R&D groups in the world, with over 70 staff members. Manufacturing is a core competence here with many years of experience and thousands of printheads installed worldwide. Highly sophisticated manufacturing techniques are being deployed in state-of-the-art clean rooms in order to meet customer requirements for reliable and high-performance products.

Although the economy nationwide is slowing down a bit, the state of New Hampshire is still prospering. "The general employment outlook is still very good," Saucier notes. There are many companies seeking highly skilled professionals in this region. Although not a Silicon Valley, many high-tech companies do call New Hampshire home.

The size of the labor pool here is small yet well educated and tech savvy. "Most people that apply with us have at least 10 to 15 years of experience," she says. Some of the current jobs in demand at Spectra include development engineer, electrical engineer, marketing director, image quality engineer, administrative assistant and applications engineer. It usually takes a couple of months to fill a position, and Saucier points out that it is not always easy because the labor pool is so small and the market for housing is tight.

There are several unique aspects about working and living in New Hampshire. "Many people probably aren't aware of the job opportunities here," she explains. "We do have many great businesses in a not-so-fast-paced environment."

As for the quality of life in Hanover, it is for people who enjoy a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. "The person has to like rural living," she says. "The mall isn't right around the corner." Concord, N.H., is the closest city, with Burlington, Vt., an hour and a half away and Boston more than three hours away. There are many outdoor activities that cover all four seasons and tons of cultural events in and around Hanover. It is the ideal location for the single or married business professional seeking a quieter way of life.