Human Resources Manager – Manufacturing (RELO available)

About the Role

On behalf of our VIP client, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced Human Resources Manager to lead HR operations at a well-established manufacturing facility near the Kalamazoo, MI area. This role is an exciting opportunity to drive cultural transformation, enhance employee engagement, and serve as a strategic HR leader in a unionized environment.

The ideal candidate will be an HR professional with strong labor relations experience, a hands-on leadership style, and a passion for building trust, improving processes, and fostering a positive workplace culture.

Key Responsibilities

✅ Labor Relations & Employee Engagement

• Serve as the primary labor relations contact, managing grievances, interpreting and administering the collective bargaining agreement (CBA), and assisting with contract negotiations.
• Work closely with leadership to rebuild trust in HR, fostering strong relationships with both salaried and hourly employees.
• Provide strategic guidance on employee relations, workplace investigations, and disciplinary matters.

✅ HR Operations & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal employment laws (EEO, FMLA, ADA, HIPAA, etc.).
• Oversee payroll processes for hourly employees, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and adherence to union agreements.
• Manage HR policies, benefits administration, and leave management, including ADA interactive processes.

✅ Talent Development & Workforce Planning

• Lead training and development programs for both salaried and hourly employees, including a structured operator training and maintenance development program.
• Coach and develop an HR team member responsible for training initiatives.
• Partner with Talent Acquisition to drive recruitment efforts, particularly for technical and manufacturing roles.

✅ Culture & Leadership Support

• Partner with plant leadership (GM & Operations Manager) to drive culture change and enhance the employee experience.
• Support performance management processes, ensuring alignment with company objectives.
• Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts to foster a collaborative and respectful workplace.

What You Bring

✔ Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required.
✔ 5-7 years of progressive HR experience, including labor relations and workforce planning.
✔ Manufacturing or industrial environment experience preferred.
✔ Union experience required—demonstrated success managing CBAs, grievances, and negotiations.
✔ Strong knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices.
✔ Experience handling employee relations, investigations, and conflict resolution.
✔ HR certification preferred (SHRM-CP, PHR, SHRM-SCP, or SPHR).
✔ Proficiency in HRIS and timekeeping systems; strong Excel and data analysis skills a plus.
✔ A collaborative and hands-on leadership style with the ability to influence at all levels.

Why Join This Opportunity?

⭐ High-Impact Role – Play a key role in shaping culture and strengthening HR’s position as a strategic business partner.
⭐ People-Focused Leadership – Work with plant leaders who value HR’s role in driving positive change.
⭐ Career Growth – A highly visible position with opportunities for advancement.
⭐ Competitive Compensation & Relocation Assistance – Support is available for the right candidate.