Human Resources Manager

JMS Talent Partners; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

JMS Talent Partners is seeking an experienced HR Manager to support a Buffalo, NY manufacturing operation. You will oversee day-to-day HR functions, manage union-related labor relations, and collaborate with leadership on HR strategy and compliance.

The role requires hands-on experience with CBA administration, employee relations, and HR operations, including safety, onboarding, and HRIS processes. You will report to the Division President and drive a positive workplace culture.

Qualifications

• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organization skills.
• Experience with unionized labor relations and CBAs.
• Knowledge of federal/state employment laws and HR policies.
• Experience recruiting for hourly manufacturing positions.
• Ability to handle confidential information professionally.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day HR functions for manufacturing operation.
• Administer and interpret CBA; manage grievances and disciplinary actions.
• Support onboarding, benefits, HRIS, and records management.
• Lead safety initiatives and employee engagement activities.
• Partner with leadership on HR initiatives and reporting.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal

Organizational

Problem solving

Discretion

Business acumen

Emotional intelligence

Independence

Tools

HRIS

Microsoft Office

Job description

We are seeking an experienced, hands-on HR Manager to support a manufacturing operation in Buffalo, NY. This individual will oversee day-to-day human resources functions, serve as a key resource for employees and management, and help foster a positive, productive, and collaborative workplace culture.

This is an excellent opportunity for an HR professional who enjoys working in a manufacturing environment and has experience navigating employee relations, labor relations, and the unique challenges of a unionized workforce.

Reporting directly to the Division President, the HR Manager will play an important role in supporting the organization's workforce, ensuring compliance with employment regulations and collective bargaining agreements, and partnering with leadership on HR initiatives.

Labor & Employee Relations

• Administer and interpret the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), ensuring compliance with union contract provisions and company policies.
• Manage union grievances, disciplinary actions, employee write-ups, and termination procedures in accordance with the CBA.
• Support union negotiations, contract administration, and related labor relations activities.
• Conduct and assist with employee investigations, complaints, and workplace concerns.
• Partner with management to address employee relations matters and promote a positive work environment.
• Manage full-cycle recruiting for hourly manufacturing positions and partner with hiring managers on salaried recruitment.
• Coordinate with temporary staffing agencies to meet workforce needs.
• Manage the offer process, background checks, pre-employment physicals, and drug screenings.
• Oversee new hire onboarding, orientation, and initial safety training.

HR Operations & Administration

• Administer employee benefits, open enrollment, and HRIS-related processes.
• Maintain accurate and confidential personnel records in accordance with company policies and applicable regulations.
• Administer vacation, attendance, and absenteeism policies.
• Develop, maintain, and communicate employee handbooks, job descriptions, and HR policies and procedures.
• Support performance management, disciplinary processes, succession planning, and employee development initiatives.
• Prepare required federal and state employment reports and periodic management reports.

Safety & Employee Engagement

• Serve as the company's safety lead and coordinate the employee safety committee.
• Lead and maintain the HR A3 Board.
• Conduct employee policy reviews and communicate company programs, procedures, and expectations.
• Partner with leadership to strengthen employee engagement, accountability, and workplace culture.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of progressive human resources experience, preferably within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Previous experience working in a unionized environment is required.
• Strong working knowledge of collective bargaining agreements, grievance procedures, labor relations, and employee disciplinary processes.
• Experience with hourly workforce recruiting, employee relations, and HR administration.
• Knowledge of federal and state employment laws and regulations, including applicable leave, benefits, and workplace requirements.
• Experience with HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
• Strong business acumen, emotional intelligence, and the ability to work effectively with employees at all levels.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and comfortable working independently in a hands-on manufacturing environment.