Labor Relations and Employee Manager

Harvard Resource Solutions LLC; Sterling Heights (MI); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Harvard Resource Solutions/VENTEON is hiring a Manager of Labor Relations and Employee Management for a manufacturing client in Sterling Heights. The role is in-office, with a salary range of 100K–140K based on experience and education.

The Manager will develop labor relations strategy, lead union negotiations, train leaders, and oversee employee relations, policy, and safety in partnership with EHS teams. Requires 8+ years in labor relations with CB experience and US/Canada experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, labor relations, business or related field.
• 8+ years in labor/employee relations with collective bargaining.
• Experience in US and Canadian operations; knowledge of US labor law.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute proactive labor relations strategies across union and non-union operations.
• Lead contract negotiations and manage union relationships, including grievances and arbitrations.
• Train and coach leaders on labor relations, investigations, and employee management.
• Oversee investigations, discipline, and policy compliance; support health, safety and regulatory adherence with EHS teams.

Skills

Labor strategy

Union strategy

Grievance handling

Leadership coaching

Employment law knowledge

MS Office

HRIS experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in HR, Labor Relations, Business

Master’s degree preferred

Certifications in conflict resolution or labor law

Tools

HRIS systems

Job description

Harvard Resource Solutions/VENTEON is seeking a Labor Relations and Employee Manager for their manufacturing client in Sterling Heights on a direct hire basis.

In Office

Salary Range: 100K - 140K ( Based upon experience and education)

Summary:

The Manager, Labor & Employee Relations is responsible for developing and executing the company’s labor relations strategy across union and non-union operations. This role leads preventive labor relations and union-avoidance strategies, manages collective bargaining and labor agreement administration, and trains leaders to effectively operate within both unionized and union-free environments. The position also oversees health and safety leadership, regulatory compliance, and HR policy administration.

Responsibilities:

Labor Relations & Union Strategy

• Develop and execute proactive labor relations strategies focused on risk mitigation and employee engagement
• Advise leadership on union activity, vulnerabilities, and compliant response approaches
• Ensure compliance with labor laws and train leaders on best practices

Union & Collective Bargaining

• Lead contract negotiations and manage union relationships, including grievances and arbitrations
• Guide leaders on labor agreement interpretation and consistent application

Leadership Training & Coaching

• Train and coach leaders on labor relations, investigations, and employee management

Employee Relations, Policy & Safety

• Oversee investigations, discipline, and conflict resolution
• Ensure HR policy compliance and address employee relations risks
• Support health, safety, and regulatory compliance in partnership with EHS teams

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Labor Relations, Business, or related field required; Master’s preferred
• Certifications in conflict resolution, employee relations, or labor law a plus

Experience

• 8+ years of labor and employee relations experience, including collective bargaining
• US and Canadian experience
• Strong knowledge of U.S. labor law; manufacturing, multi-site, or automotive experience preferred

Skills

• Labor strategy, risk management, and preventive union strategies
• Collective bargaining, grievance handling, and compliance
• Leadership coaching and training
• Knowledge of employment law and health & safety regulations
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; HRIS experience a plus

Travel: Up to 15%