HR Manager - Labor Relations and Talent Development

Relocation assistance is offered to candidates currently residing in the United States.

About the Role

The HR Manager will act as a key strategic partner to plant operations, driving initiatives in labor relations, employee engagement, talent development, compliance, and overall HR operations. This position requires a hands-on, approachable leader with proven experience in union environments and the ability to navigate complex labor matters effectively. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing setting, builds strong relationships across all levels, and ensures alignment between workforce strategies and business objectives.

Responsibilities

Labor Relations:

• Serve as the primary liaison between management and union representatives.
• Administer and interpret the collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
• Lead grievance investigations, disciplinary actions, and arbitration processes.
• Support contract negotiations and labor strategy development.

Employee Relations & Engagement:

• Promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
• Provide coaching and support to supervisors and employees.
• Conduct investigations and resolve employee concerns in a timely, fair manner.

Talent Management:

• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and retention strategies for hourly and salaried roles.
• Partner with operations to ensure staffing levels meet 24/7 production demands.
• Support performance management, succession planning, and employee development.

Compliance & Policy Administration:

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws (e.g., FMLA, ADA, FLSA, OSHA).
• Maintain accurate HR records and reporting.
• Lead safety and wellness initiatives in collaboration with EHS teams.

HR Operations:

• Manage payroll, benefits, and HRIS processes in coordination with corporate HR.
• Monitor key HR metrics (turnover, absenteeism, etc.) and recommend improvements.
• Support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives.

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE & STRENGTHS

• Experience in paper, pulp, or similar heavy manufacturing industries.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and conflict resolution skills.
• Proven ability to build trust and credibility with both hourly and salaried employees.
• Hands-on, approachable leadership style with a strong sense of urgency. REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
• Equivalent work experience in HR will be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 3+ years of progressive HR experience in a manufacturing or industrial setting in an HR Generalist, HRBP or HR Manager role.
• MicroSoft Office proficiency (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, Powerpoint) • Strong union labor relations experience (contract interpretation, grievance administration, etc.)
• SHRM-CP or PHR Certification