Position Title: Labor Affairs Specialist

General Purpose:

• Provide strategic and tactical HD solutions in Human Development.
• Focus on employee and labor relations with a hands-on approach.

Essential Functions:

• Maintain and foster productive relations with UAW, salaried, and hourly employees.
• Lead Collective Bargaining Agreement and Collective Bargaining processes.
• Develop and implement policies for consistent employee treatment.
• Coordinate initiatives to encourage employee feedback and engagement.
• Engage in problem-solving to improve HD processes.
• Train management on company and plant policies, including the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• Investigate and resolve employee issues.
• Manage local labor contracts and provide interpretation to Coordinators and HD teams.
• Lead the review and resolution of employee grievances.
• Advise on sensitive labor and employee relations matters, including grievance and arbitration procedures.
• Manage turnover and absenteeism analytics; create action plans for labor stability.
• Assist managers in identifying and addressing employee relations issues.
• Stay informed on employee and labor relations trends and legal changes.
• Conduct research for contract negotiations and employee relations.
• Partner with regional labor on negotiation strategies aligned with "our clients" mission and values.
• Monitor employment and labor trends; advise management on emerging issues.
• Manage the local employee relations team for guidance on various employee matters.
• Align with regional labor for rightsizing and downsizing actions; validate termination processes.
• Maintain communication with UAW local representatives.
• Provide advice and assistance regarding statutes, regulations, and contracts.
• Lead union avoidance strategies in union-free facilities.
• Build relationships with local government, chambers, and union leaders.
• Partner with talent acquisition to minimize labor risk.
• Audit policies and labor contracts for compliance with local laws.
• Enhance labor environment and employee engagement.
• Conduct investigations related to transparency lines and ensure proper documentation.
• Administer FMLA and medical leaves, ensuring compliance with federal guidelines.
• Verify payroll entries and report discrepancies.
• Maintain and distribute current employee information, policy manuals, and KPI tracking reports.
• Administer EEO and Affirmative Action programs.
• Conduct employee onboarding and related training; manage hiring and turnover data.
• Participate in disciplinary hearings to ensure fair treatment of employees.
• Address internal customer questions and concerns in a timely manner.
• Additional responsibilities as required.

Academics and Experience Criteria:

• PHR or SHRM CP Certification preferred.
• Bachelor’s Degree in HR or related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years in HR within a manufacturing setting or 5-10 years of HR experience.
• FMLA and Medical Leave Administration experience required.
• Knowledge of state and federal laws required.
• Benefits and payroll knowledge required.
• 3-5 years of HR experience in a unionized manufacturing setting preferred.

What’s in it for You?

• Health & Wellness:

  • Discounted gym membership.
  • Paid vacation and holidays.
  • Excellent benefits plan: medical, dental, vision, and prescription insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage, FSA.

• Financial Health:

  • 401(k) company matching.
  • Advancement opportunities and training programs.

• Perks:

  • Employee discounts.
  • Casual dress code.
  • Employee engagement events.

• Learning:

  • Robust annual tuition reimbursement.
  • Access to continuous learning platforms.