Employee Relations Generalist

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

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.

Compliance, Reporting & Audits : Ensure HR practices comply with federal, state, and local regulations (OSHA, FMLA, FLSA, etc.); maintain accurate employee records.

Training & Development : Lead training initiatives for plant employees and coordinate internal and external training activities.

ADA Interactive Process : Partner with Medical, Labor Relations, Hiring Managers, and Unions to navigate accommodations for returning employees and new hires.

Performance Management : Support managers in evaluations, disciplinary actions, and corrective plans through coaching and counseling.

HR Projects : Contribute to initiatives such as employee engagement, diversity and inclusion efforts, and process improvements at corporate and local levels.

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.

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.

Negotiations : Assist in negotiating, implementing, and interpreting collective bargaining agreements (CBAs).

Grievance & Complaint Investigation : Investigate and resolve employee grievances, internal and agency complaints thoroughly and expeditiously.

Requirements

Bachelors degree in Human Resources, Labor Relations, Business Administration, or related field.

710 years of HR Generalist experience, preferably in a unionized heavy manufacturing or 24 / 7 operational environment.

Strong understanding of HRIS systems (Oracle preferred).

Knowledge of manufacturing plant organizations, structures, and business drivers.

Excellent interpersonal and influencing skills with ability to handle sensitive issues confidentially.

Strong written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.

Organizational skills to manage competing priorities effectively.

Ability to work independently and make informed decisions with limited information.

Advanced Excel and analytical skills for data analysis and trend identification.

Strong knowledge of labor laws, union contracts, and dispute resolution processes.

Excellent negotiation and relationship-building skills.