Labor Relations Leader - Union Strategy & Compliance (Manufacturing)

AM Default Brand; Mishawaka (IN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

AM General in Mishawaka, Indiana seeks an experienced Labor Relations Leader to manage collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and union relations within a manufacturing environment.

You will partner with operations leadership to ensure compliance, workforce planning, and strategic staffing. The role requires 5+ years in labor relations and supervisory experience, with strong communication skills and knowledge of UAW preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Labor Relations, Business Administration, or related field preferred or equivalent experience
• 5+ years of professional experience in labor relations or human resources within a unionized manufacturing environment, preferably UAW
• 5+ years of supervisory or leadership experience
• Strong understanding of collective bargaining agreements, grievance administration, and labor contract interpretation
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
• High level of initiative, independence, and follow‑through
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and customer service skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and HRIS platforms, preferably UKG
• Ability to multi‑task, prioritize effectively, and maintain high accuracy in a fast-paced environment
• Professional certifications such as SHRM‑SCP, SHRM‑CP, SPHR, or PHR preferredExperience with HR data analytics, workforce planning tools, and continuous improvement methodologies

Responsibilities

• Lead the interpretation and administration of collective bargaining agreements at AM General’s Indiana operations
• Serve as the primary contact for union representatives and internal stakeholders on labor matters
• Manage the grievance and arbitration process, ensuring timely resolution and consistent contract application
• Provide training and guidance to supervisors and managers on contract compliance and labor relations best practices
• Oversee the hourly recruitment, selection, and onboarding processes
• Develop strategies to maintain adequate staffing levels and support operational efficiency
• Partner with operations leadership to forecast labor needs and address workforce challenges proactively
• Review, recommend, and update HR and labor policies to ensure alignment with organizational goals and regulatory requirements
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment legislation across all HR and labor activities
• Communicate policy updates and compliance expectations to leadership, staff, and the union as appropriate
• Consult with legal counsel on complex labor or personnel matters as needed
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives related to HR systems, processes, and reporting
• Maintain and enhance HR information systems to support data integrity and workforce analytics
• Set department goals and performance metrics aligned with organizational objectives
• Supervise and develop HR team members to ensure strong service delivery and professional growth
• Partner with executives and department leaders to support business goals, cultural initiatives, and employee engagement
• Participate in committees, special projects, and cross-functional initiatives to support organizational priorities

Skills

Collective bargaining

Labor relations

Supervisory leadership

Verbal and written communication

HRIS (UKG)

MS Office

Analytical mindset

Policy interpretation

Contract interpretation

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

HRIS (UKG)

Job description

AM General in Mishawaka, Indiana seeks an experienced Labor Relations Leader to manage collective bargaining agreements, grievances, and union relations within a manufacturing environment.

You will partner with operations leadership to ensure compliance, workforce planning, and strategic staffing. The role requires 5+ years in labor relations and supervisory experience, with strong communication skills and knowledge of UAW preferred.