Industrial Relations (IR) Specialist

Jelocorp; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading renewable energy firm seeks an Industrial Relations (IR) Specialist to oversee labour relations at multiple construction sites. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience and a strong understanding of South African labour laws. Responsibilities include managing disputes, engaging with unions, and ensuring compliance. This full-time position is onsite in Sandton, contributing to major infrastructure projects across the country.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in industrial relations, particularly within construction, energy, or EPC sectors.
• Strong knowledge of CCMA processes and union operations.
• Proven experience in managing complex workforce disputes.

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee labour relations across multiple construction sites.
• Engage with bargaining councils, unions, and employee representatives.
• Provide guidance to management on South African labour compliance.

Skills

Experience in industrial relations

Knowledge of South African labour laws

Negotiation skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Relevant qualification in Labour Relations, HR or Law

Job description

Job Title : Industrial Relations (IR) Specialist

Location: Fourways, Sandton, South Africa (Site-Based or Regional Office, as Required)

Industry: Renewable Energy / Solar Construction

Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent

Position Overview

We are looking for an experienced Industrial Relations (IR) Specialist to manage and oversee labour relations across multiple construction sites within the renewable energy and solar construction sector. This role requires a strategic professional with a deep understanding of South African labour legislation, workforce dynamics, and the intricacies of large-scale infrastructure projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all industrial and labour relations activities across construction sites.
• Engage and negotiate with bargaining councils, unions, and employee representatives.
• Represent the company in CCMA cases, disciplinary hearings, and grievance procedures.
• Provide expert guidance to management and site teams on South African labour compliance.
• Ensure consistent application and enforcement of HR and IR policies across all sites.
• Proactively manage and resolve disputes, strikes, and workforce conflicts.
• Collaborate with HR teams to support recruitment, onboarding, and employee communications from an IR perspective.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of all IR matters and case documentation.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in industrial relations, particularly within construction, energy, or EPC sectors.
• Comprehensive knowledge of South African labour laws, CCMA processes, and union operations.
• Proven experience in bargaining council negotiations and managing complex workforce disputes.
• Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills with the ability to engage across all levels of the organisation.
• Ability to perform under pressure within a dynamic, project-driven environment.
• Relevant qualification in Labour Relations, Human Resources, or Law (diploma or degree advantageous).
• Willingness and flexibility to travel to project sites as needed.

What We Offer

Join a forward-thinking organisation at the forefront of South Africa’s renewable energy growth. This role offers the opportunity to shape industrial relations practices on significant infrastructure projects, contributing to the sustainable energy future of the country.

You’ll be part of a collaborative team, playing a pivotal role in ensuring operational continuity and fostering positive labour relations on large-scale solar projects nationwide.