Strategic HR Director — Manufacturing & Labor Relations

UTLX; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 170,000 - 208,000; Full time

Job summary

Union Tank Car Company in Chicago is seeking a Director of Human Resources to partner with operations leadership and shape the workforce strategy in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. This hybrid role centers on talent acquisition, workforce planning, succession planning, organizational development, and labor relations, with up to 40% travel.

You will coach leaders, drive performance and compensation processes, mentor the HR team, and collaborate across locations to deliver high‑impact

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive HR leadership experience.
• Strong background as an HR Business Partner and people leader.
• Experience in manufacturing, industrial settings preferred; union experience is a plus.
• HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead senior HR partner to operations and leadership teams.
• Partner with leaders on talent acquisition, workforce planning, succession planning, and organizational development.
• Coach and influence leaders on employee relations, performance management, and talent strategies.
• Drive transformational change initiatives and continuous improvement in HR.
• Develop and implement leadership development and employee engagement programs.
• Support HR processes including performance management, compensation planning, and talent reviews.
• Lead HR and labor relations strategies, including collective bargaining administration.

Skills

HR business partner

leadership

coaching

employee relations

organizational development

influence

manufacturing environment

union experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field

Job description

Union Tank Car Company in Chicago is seeking a Director of Human Resources to partner with operations leadership and shape the workforce strategy in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. This hybrid role centers on talent acquisition, workforce planning, succession planning, organizational development, and labor relations, with up to 40% travel.

You will coach leaders, drive performance and compensation processes, mentor the HR team, and collaborate across locations to deliver high‑impact