Employee Relations Manager

Employee Relations Manager

Reports to:

Director HR Partnerships. Supervises:
Human Resources Coordinators, Human Resources Business Partners.

• Provide vision and critical leadership to manage the Employee Relations function in support of the company’s values, mission and culture.
• Provide leadership to the Employee Relations Team.
• Manage and coach the team to encourage continual development and awareness of employment law updates and briefings.
• Proactively identify risks, diffuse issues, and resolve employee and management concerns through investigations.
• Collaborate with Corporate Employment Law Advisors to identify and develop solutions around employee relations issues.
• Foster a positive employee relations environment that drives engagement, inclusion and a harassment-free workplace.
• Serve as an escalation point for complex employee relations issues and investigations using strong negotiation, conflict-resolution and mediation skills.
• Partner with HR leadership and the legal team to represent Austal USA in investigations and/or litigation cases.
• Review the impact of the Employee Relations function and develop recommendations to address facility and organizational training needs.
• Develop and monitor metrics and tracking mechanisms that measure results, efficiency and cost effectiveness while ensuring timely and appropriate handling of disputes and complaints.
• Provide guidance to leadership on difficult or actionable grievances filed by employees.
• Oversee the analysis, maintenance and communication of records required by law or regulatory bodies.
• Develop, interpret and recommend program goals, objectives, policies and procedures.
• Manage employee relations activities according to established guidelines and sound administrative practices.
• Prepare and present required and special reports.
• Conduct exit interviews with staff, determine corrective action to retain valued employees and discuss findings with senior management.
• Recommend solutions to administration when individual problems indicate negative trends.
• Maintain an attitude and philosophy consistent with the company’s standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned or necessary.
• Act as a Compliance Champion for the organization and promote a culture of compliance throughout the organization.
• Support business unit Tier 1 Compliance Lead in required responsibilities.

• Bachelor’s degree preferably in Employee Relations, Human Resources or a related field and a minimum of ten years of Employee Relations experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with a large sized organization in a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex employee relations matters, conduct investigations and influence leadership in high risk situations.
• Demonstrated experience in managing and administering a broad range of tasks including resolving complaints, counseling managers and employees on policy interpretation.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of human resources management and supervision in a non union environment.
• Experience in preparation of comprehensive reports and clear concise representation of ideas, both orally and in writing.
• Extensive knowledge of applicable state and federal employment and labor laws and governmental compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite required.
• Ability to maintain physical condition and stamina appropriate to the performance of assigned duties, including extended periods of sitting and operating office equipment.
• SHRM Certified Professional (PHR) or Senior Professional (SPHR) preferred.

• Ability to climb safely, including use of stairs, scaffolding, ladders and ramps.
• Use of personal protective equipment such as hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toed shoes, goggles, respirator, safety harness, safety line, flotation gear, etc., per OSHA standards.
• Ability to withstand cold and hot temperatures.
• Ability to respond to verbal and audible commands.
• Ability to utilize adequate visual skills.

Austal USA is committed to equal employment opportunity and is an affirmative action employer. Any qualified individual with a disability who has difficulty completing an application due to technology or other issue may contact  for assistance. This company does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability or any other protected status. This statement is governed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission rules and preferences for resumes that demonstrate successful employment history.

It also constitutes a legal requirement for employers with a discriminatory or restricted base. Austal USA is committed to providing equal opportunities and assists persons with disabilities.