Industrial Relations (IR) Specialist - Renewable Energy Sector

Energy Vault; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic EPC contractor in South Africa’s utility-scale solar PV industry is seeking an experienced Industrial Relations Specialist. You will manage labour relations across multiple construction sites, ensuring compliance with labor laws, leading negotiations, and addressing workforce disputes. This role requires a strong understanding of South African labor law and the ability to manage conflicts effectively, making it essential for maintaining a compliant and productive workforce.

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ experience in industrial relations within construction, energy, or EPC sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of South African labour law, union negotiations, and CCMA proceedings.
• Proven track record managing IR issues and workforce conflict on large projects.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as needed.

Responsibilities

• Manage all industrial and labour relations matters on active construction projects.
• Lead negotiations and engagement with unions, bargaining councils, and worker representatives.
• Represent the company at CCMA, disciplinary hearings, and grievance processes.
• Advise management on IR best practices and ensure labour law compliance.
• Address and resolve workforce disputes, strikes, and IR risks promptly.
• Work closely with HR to support hiring, onboarding, and staff relations from an IR perspective.
• Ensure consistent application of IR policies and maintain accurate case documentation.

Skills

Negotiation

Conflict Resolution

Communication

Education

Relevant qualification in Labour Relations, HR, or Law

Job description

Introduction

Our client is a dynamic EPC contractor at the forefront of South Africa’s utility-scale solar PV industry.

As their project pipeline expands, we are seeking a skilled Industrial Relations (IR) Specialist to oversee labour relations across multiple construction sites and help us maintain a fair, compliant, and productive workforce.

Duties & Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage all industrial and labour relations matters on active construction projects.

• Lead negotiations and engagement with unions, bargaining councils, and worker representatives.

• Represent the company at CCMA, disciplinary hearings, and grievance processes.

• Advise management on IR best practices and ensure labour law compliance.

• Address and resolve workforce disputes, strikes, and IR risks promptly.

• Work closely with HR to support hiring, onboarding, and staff relations from an IR perspective.

• Ensure consistent application of IR policies and maintain accurate case documentation.

Desired Experience & Qualification

Requirements:

• 5+ years’ experience in industrial relations within construction, energy, or EPC sectors.

• In-depth knowledge of South African labour law, union negotiations, and CCMA proceedings.

• Proven track record managing IR issues and workforce conflict on large projects.

• Strong communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.

• Relevant qualification in Labour Relations, HR, or Law (preferred).

• Willingness to travel to project sites as needed.

Interested?