Human Resources Manager

Position Overview

My client is seeking an experienced, hands‑on HR Manager to lead and strengthen the organization’s human resources function. This individual will partner closely with leadership and employees to improve HR operations, support a unionized workforce, develop succession plans, administer employee benefits, and ensure consistent application of company policies and collective bargaining agreements.

The ideal candidate has at least five years of progressive human resources experience, including direct experience working in a union environment. This role requires someone who can balance strategic HR initiatives with the day-to-day needs of employees and managers.

• Manage day‑to‑day human resources operations, including employee relations, benefits administration, performance management, compliance, onboarding, and policy administration.
• Support a unionized workforce by interpreting and administering collective bargaining agreements, addressing grievances, and partnering with operational leaders on labor relations matters.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to managers and employees regarding workplace concerns, performance issues, disciplinary actions, and company policies.
• Identify opportunities to streamline HR processes, improve workflows, reduce administrative inefficiencies, and create a more consistent employee experience.
• Develop and implement succession‑planning strategies to identify high‑potential employees, address leadership gaps, and build a strong internal talent pipeline.
• Lead benefits administration, including employee enrollment, vendor coordination, employee communication, issue resolution, and annual renewal support.
• Partner with leadership to improve employee retention, engagement, workforce planning, and organizational effectiveness.
• Manage the performance‑review process and coach managers on goal setting, employee development, documentation, and performance improvement.
• Oversee recruiting, onboarding, and offboarding processes while ensuring a professional and consistent experience for employees.
• Maintain accurate HR records and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws.
• Develop, update, and communicate HR policies, procedures, employee handbooks, and workplace guidelines.
• Track and analyze HR metrics to identify trends and recommend practical improvements.
• Support payroll, leave administration, workers’ compensation, safety initiatives, and other employee programs as needed.
• Participate in union meetings, grievance discussions, contract administration, and collective bargaining preparation when required.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Labor Relations, or a related field.
• At least five years of progressive human resources experience.
• Direct experience supporting employees and management in a unionized environment is required.
• Experience interpreting and administering collective bargaining agreements.
• Strong knowledge of employee relations, benefits administration, performance management, and employment law.
• Demonstrated ability to improve HR processes and streamline operational workflows.
• Experience with succession planning, workforce planning, or employee‑development initiatives.
• Strong communication, judgment, conflict‑resolution, and relationship‑building skills.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency with HRIS platforms and Microsoft Office applications.

• PHR, SPHR, SHRM‑CP, or SHRM‑SCP certification.
• Experience participating in grievance resolution, union negotiations, or collective bargaining.
• Experience supporting a skilled‑trades, manufacturing, construction, field‑services, or other blue‑collar workforce.
• Experience implementing or optimizing an HRIS or benefits‑administration platform.