Human Resources Manager - Manufacturing Columbus, GA | 100% Onsite We are in search of an experienced Human Resources Manager to take on the role of senior HR leader for a large, unionized manufacturing facility located in Columbus, Georgia. In this visible position, you will work closely with the Plant Manager and site leadership team to drive labor relations, workforce strategy, employee engagement, leadership development, and organizational effectiveness. This is an outstanding opportunity for an HR leader who thrives on being hands-on with operations and desires to make a substantial impact on plant culture and performance. The ideal candidate will possess strong experience in union/labor relations, sound business judgment, and the ability to establish positive relationships with employees, union representatives, and plant leadership. Key Responsibilities Act as a strategic HR partner to the Plant Manager and site leadership team. Lead HR initiatives at the site, including labor and employee relations, talent acquisition, talent management, organizational development, and performance management. Foster constructive relationships with union leadership and assist in enhancing labor-management collaboration. Interpret and implement collective bargaining agreements, and provide guidance on grievances, investigations, contract interpretation, arbitration preparation, and labor-risk matters. Collaborate with union and plant leadership to address employee and workplace issues proactively. Support labor negotiations and long-term labor relations strategy. Supervise hourly hiring, bid administration, staffing, and headcount management. Drive workforce planning, succession planning, talent reviews, and readiness for critical roles. Develop frontline supervisors and other leaders through training, coaching, mentoring, and individual development planning. Offer guidance to leaders on employee engagement, performance management, conflict resolution, communication, and leadership practices. Lead workplace investigations and ensure fair, timely, and compliant resolution of employee concerns. Utilize workforce data, employee-relations trends, and organizational metrics to identify issues and support business decisions. Lead HR and organizational change initiatives that enhance operational improvement and continuous improvement. Oversee employee recognition, engagement, and other programs to foster a positive plant culture. Ensure consistent application of HR policies and compliance with relevant employment and labor laws. Be present on-site and flexible with hours to support a multi-shift manufacturing operation. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field. 5+ years of progressive Human Resources experience. 3+ years of experience working with a unionized workforce. Previous experience in Manufacturing HR is essential. Proficiency in administering and interpreting collective bargaining agreements and handling grievances and complex labor/employee relations matters. Proven ability to cultivate productive union-management relationships. Experience with workforce planning, succession planning, leadership development, and organizational capability building. Skilled in coaching and developing leaders and employees. Strong business acumen with the ability to influence operational leaders and drive change. Capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Excellent communication, coaching, and relationship-building skills. Preferred Leadership experience as an HR Generalist. Background in food, consumer products, or high-volume manufacturing. Experience in supporting collective bargaining and labor negotiations. Proficiency in implementing leadership development and succession-planning programs. Knowledge of HRIS, including Workday. Experience in Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement environments. Certification in PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP.