Plant Human Resources Manager

FLERZ Management Consultancy Services; Kitchener; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the automotive sector is seeking a Plant HR Manager to lead HR functions at the site level. This role involves strategic planning, employee engagement, and compliance. The ideal candidate will have extensive HR experience, particularly in a manufacturing environment, and will be skilled in managing union relations and developing talent. The company offers competitive salary and benefits, along with a strong culture of learning and development.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Top-tier retirement savings plan with company contributions

Flexible working hours

Health & wellness programs

Strong culture of learning, development, and internal promotion

Qualifications

• 5+ years HR experience in manufacturing, preferably automotive.
• Unionized environment experience required.

Responsibilities

• Lead all HR functions at the site level, supporting plant operations.
• Manage union relationships, including negotiations and grievances.
• Drive effective internal communications and engagement programs.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-Solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in HR or related field

Tools

HRIS

Payroll Systems

Performance Tools

Job description

Plant HR Manager

About the Company

Our client is a global Tier 1 & 2 automotive supplier specializing in advanced polyurethane foam technologies. With over 7,000 employees worldwide, they are known for innovation, sustainability, and community involvement. Recognized as one of Deloitte’s Best Managed Companies for eight consecutive years, they foster a people-first culture focused on excellence and growth.

What’s in It for You

• Competitive salary and benefits
• Top-tier retirement savings plan with company contributions
• Flexible working hours
• Health & wellness programs
• A strong culture of learning, development, and internal promotion

Role Overview

As the Plant HR Manager, you’ll lead all HR functions at the site level, supporting plant operations, driving teammate engagement, and aligning HR practices with corporate strategy. You’ll be a key part of the site leadership team, balancing strategic planning with hands-on execution across employee relations, safety, performance, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

HR Leadership & Strategy

• Serve as a strategic advisor to the Plant Manager
• Drive local HR initiatives aligned with corporate goals
• Build strong employee relations and a positive work culture
• Monitor and report on HR metrics and KPIs

Labour & Employee Relations

• Manage union relationships, including negotiations and grievances
• Ensure fair and consistent application of policies

Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E)

• Support plant safety initiatives and compliance
• Manage injury claims and promote a safety-first culture
• Act as liaison for regulatory visits

Recruitment & Talent Development

• Lead recruitment, onboarding, and retention strategies
• Identify training needs and develop training plans
• Support performance and succession planning (e.g., 9-box, development plans)

Compensation & Benefits

• Oversee local administration of total rewards programs
• Ensure competitive and compliant pay and benefits practices

Communication & Engagement

• Drive effective internal communications and engagement programs
• Support Workplace Practices System (WPS) and feedback initiatives

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in HR or related field; HR designation preferred
• 5+ years HR experience in manufacturing, preferably automotive
• Unionized environment experience required
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Experience with HRIS, payroll systems, and performance tools preferred