Human Resource Operations Manager

JMJ Phillip; Kansas City (KS, PA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus eligibility for annual incentive

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

JMJ Phillip Group is seeking an experienced Human Resource Operations Manager to lead HR initiatives in a manufacturing environment in Kansas City, Kansas. The role partners with plant leadership to support workforce planning, employee relations, leadership development, organizational effectiveness, and continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate has strong labor relations experience in a unionized environment and can guide employees and leaders through organizational change while fostering a

Qualifications

• Progressive HR experience in manufacturing.
• Experience with labor relations in a unionized environment.
• Strong leadership and coaching abilities.

Responsibilities

• Partner with plant leadership to align HR with operations.
• Lead workforce planning and organizational development.
• Manage labor relations and collective bargaining administration.
• Coach leaders on conflict resolution and performance management.
• Ensure compliance with employment laws and labor agreements.

Skills

Leadership

Labor relations

Change management

Communication

Analytical

Conflict resolution

Relationship building

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR or related

SHRM-CP / SHRM-SCP / PHR / SPHR

Knowledge of Kansas employment laws

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Human Resource Operations Manager to lead HR initiatives in a manufacturing environment. This role will partner with operational leadership to support workforce planning, employee relations, leadership development, organizational effectiveness, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate has strong labor relations experience, particularly in a unionized environment, and the ability to guide employees and leaders through organizational change while fostering a positive and productive workplace culture.

Position Responsibilities

Strategic HR & Workforce Management

• Partner with plant leadership to align HR strategies with operational goals and business priorities.
• Lead workforce planning, organizational development, and change management initiatives.
• Use workforce data and employee feedback to support informed business decisions.
• Support organizational effectiveness, employee engagement, and workforce development.

Labor & Employee Relations

• Manage employee and labor relations in a unionized manufacturing environment.
• Support collective bargaining agreement administration, grievance resolution, investigations, and disciplinary processes.
• Build productive relationships between employees, union representatives, and management.
• Coach supervisors and managers on conflict resolution, employee communication, and performance management.

Leadership Development & Organizational Effectiveness

• Coach and develop leaders to improve accountability, communication, and team performance.
• Support leadership development and employee engagement initiatives.
• Help strengthen workplace culture and guide teams through organizational transformation.

Compliance & Employee Experience

• Ensure compliance with employment laws, labor regulations, company policies, and labor agreements.
• Oversee employee investigations, corrective actions, and HR documentation.
• Promote clear and consistent employee communication and workplace policies.

Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Partner with operations and EHS teams to promote workplace safety and reduce risk.
• Participate in safety reviews, improvement initiatives, and operational excellence programs.
• Support Lean Manufacturing, World Class Manufacturing, and other continuous improvement efforts.
• Encourage accountability, collaboration, and adaptability throughout the organization.

Prerequisites

• High school diploma or GED required.
• At least 7 years of progressive Human Resources experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• At least 5 years of leadership or supervisory experience.
• Significant experience managing labor relations in a unionized environment, including collective bargaining agreements, grievance resolution, and employee relations.
• Experience leading workforce planning, organizational change, and employee development initiatives.
• Strong communication, coaching, facilitation, conflict resolution, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to influence leaders and build credibility across all levels of an organization.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.

Certifications (Preferred, but Not Required)

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, Industrial Relations, or a related field.
• SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification.
• Knowledge of Kansas employment laws and regulations.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, World Class Manufacturing, or other operational excellence initiatives.
• Background supporting organizational transformation and cultural change in a manufacturing setting.

What the Role Offers

• Annual salary range of $130,000–$140,000.
• Eligibility for an annual performance-based bonus.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account options.
• Paid time off and paid parental leave.
• 401(k) with company match and retirement benefits.
• Life insurance, disability coverage, and additional voluntary insurance options.
• Employee assistance and wellness programs.
• Additional benefits, including commuter assistance, legal services, identity theft protection, and employee discounts.

Why Kansas City?

Kansas City offers a strong manufacturing and industrial business environment, making it an attractive location for experienced HR professionals. With a diverse workforce, established business community, and access to regional transportation and distribution networks, the area provides opportunities to contribute to organizational growth and workforce development. Its combination of career opportunities, affordable living options, and community amenities also makes it a desirable place to build a long-term career.