Job Description:
Position: Employee Relations Generalist
We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Employee Relations Generalist to support HR/LR operations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This role plays a critical part in maintaining a positive workplace culture, ensuring compliance with labor laws, supporting employee relations, and driving initiatives that align with business goals.
Key Responsibilities
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Recruitment & Onboarding: Partner with Talent Acquisition to manage the hiring process for hourly positions, coordinating with Hiring Managers and Labor Relations to fill vacancies. Support onboarding both pre- and post-employment.
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Compliance, Reporting & Audits: Ensure HR practices comply with federal, state, and local regulations (OSHA, FMLA, FLSA, etc.); maintain accurate employee records.
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Training & Development: Lead training initiatives for plant employees and coordinate internal and external training activities.
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ADA Interactive Process: Partner with Medical, Labor Relations, Hiring Managers, and Unions to navigate accommodations for returning employees and new hires.
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Performance Management: Support managers in evaluations, disciplinary actions, and corrective plans through coaching and counseling.
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HR Projects: Contribute to initiatives such as employee engagement, diversity and inclusion efforts, and process improvements at corporate and local levels.
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Community Affairs: Participate in community initiatives (career fairs, food/toy drives, ERG programs, etc.). Act as liaison for local technical/vocational schools with Talent Acquisition and Training.
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Departmental Support: Serve as backup to HR Manager for key HR processes such as succession planning, talent management, staffing models, incentive programs, and compliance reporting.
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Negotiations: Assist in negotiating, implementing, and interpreting collective bargaining agreements (CBAs).
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Grievance & Complaint Investigation: Investigate and resolve employee grievances, internal and agency complaints thoroughly and expeditiously.
Requirements
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Bachelors degree in Human Resources, Labor Relations, Business Administration, or related field.
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710 years of HR Generalist experience, preferably in a unionized heavy manufacturing or 24/7 operational environment.
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Strong understanding of HRIS systems (Oracle preferred).
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Knowledge of manufacturing plant organizations, structures, and business drivers.
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Excellent interpersonal and influencing skills with ability to handle sensitive issues confidentially.
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Strong written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
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Organizational skills to manage competing priorities effectively.
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Ability to work independently and make informed decisions with limited information.
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Advanced Excel and analytical skills for data analysis and trend identification.
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Strong knowledge of labor laws, union contracts, and dispute resolution processes.
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Excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills.