HR Business Partner

David Aplin Recruiting; St. Albert; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm in Canada seeks an experienced HR Business Partner to guide HR practices in a unionized environment. The ideal candidate will support grievances, negotiations, and manage complex employee matters. Responsibilities include building strong relationships with union representatives, coaching managers on performance management, and participating in collective bargaining. The position requires 5+ years of HR experience, strong labour relations knowledge, and the ability to navigate a fast-paced environment. Legal entitlement to work in Canada is a prerequisite.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive HR experience, with at least 2–3 years in a unionized environment.
• Solid understanding of employment legislation and HR practices.
• Ability to manage complex employee matters with fairness and consistency.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a strategic HR partner to leaders and employees.
• Support and manage matters related to unionized employees.
• Build trust-based relationships with union partners and internal leadership.

Skills

Labour relations expertise

Strong communication skills

Relationship building

Conflict resolution

Organizational effectiveness

People Change Management

Education

HR designation (CPHR, CHRP, SHRM-CP)

Job description

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We are seeking an experienced and people-focused HR Business Partner who brings strong labour relations expertise and a proven ability to navigate complex, unionized environments. The ideal candidate has hands‑on experience supporting grievances, negotiations, and collaborative relationship management with both union representatives and internal stakeholders. This role will also support People Change Management initiatives across the organization, making it an exciting opportunity for someone who excels in guiding teams through transition, building engagement, and enabling sustainable change.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a strategic HR partner to leaders and employees, providing guidance on HR policies, practices, and workforce planning
• Support and manage matters related to unionized employees, including grievances, investigations, corrective actions, and labour relations discussions
• Build strong, trust‑based relationships with union partners and internal leadership teams to strengthen communication and resolve workplace issues proactively
• Participate in collective bargaining preparation and negotiations where required
• Coach managers on performance management, conflict resolution, organizational effectiveness, and employee engagement
• Support People Change Management initiatives, including change planning, stakeholder engagement, communication strategies, and adoption support
• Partner closely with leadership to assess organizational needs and provide HR solutions that align with business objectives
• Support the development and implementation of HR programs, employee initiatives, and continuous improvement opportunities
• Analyze HR data and trends to inform decision‑making and recommend proactive solutions
• Ensure HR practices comply with legislation, policies, collective agreements, and best practices

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive HR experience, with at least 2–3 years working directly in aunionized environment
• Strong knowledge of labour relations, including grievances, investigations, negotiations, and interpreting collective agreements
• Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships, manage sensitive workplace issues, and influence with empathy and professionalism
• Experience inPeople Change Management—training, certifications, or hands‑on change delivery experience considered a strong asset
• Solid understanding of employment legislation, HR practices, and organizational development principles
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across teams
• Strong judgement, discretion, and ability to manage complex employee matters with fairness and consistency
• Ability to navigate ambiguity, juggle multiple priorities, and operate effectively in a fast‑paced environment
• HR designation (CPHR, CHRP, SHRM-CP, etc.) considered an asset

At Aplin — together with our brands CompuStaff and Impact Recruitment — we connect great people with great organizations across North America. We believe diverse teams build stronger companies, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We use AI tools to assist in a fair and efficient matching process, helping our recruiters connect the right people with the right opportunities. To be considered, applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada, including holding any required permits. Our recruitment services are always free for job seekers.

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