Job description
Join Apex Workforce Solutions, a leading player in manufacturing and industrial services, as an Industrial Relations Specialist in Chicago, IL. This role partners with operations, HR, and union representatives to foster productive labor relations, ensure compliance, and drive strategic initiatives that support organizational performance.
We are seeking a collaborative, data driven professional who can navigate complex labor agreements and guide leadership on risk, policy, and dispute resolution. As part of the HR and Compliance team, you will influence both day to day operations and long term workforce strategies, ensuring fair treatment, safety, and legal compliance across multiple sites.
Responsibility
- Lead and manage collective bargaining processes, contract development, and renewal negotiations with union representatives.
- Oversee and resolve workplace disputes, grievances, and disciplinary matters in alignment with applicable laws and policies.
- Develop and implement proactive labor relations strategies to minimize disruption and improve productivity.
- Monitor compliance with labor laws and regulations and internal policies across multiple sites.
- Collaborate with HR, Operations, Safety, and Legal teams to align workforce initiatives with business goals.
- Provide guidance on workforce planning, restructuring, and change management while preserving positive employee relations.
- Prepare and present labor relations metrics, risk assessments, and recommendations to senior leadership.
- Support training and coaching for managers on grievance handling, discipline, and union interactions.
Qualification
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Relations, Law, HR, or a related field; master's degree preferred.
- At least 5 years of experience in labor or industrial relations, preferably in manufacturing or unionized environments.
- Strong knowledge of labor laws and compliance frameworks (for example NLRA, OSHA, and state regulations).
- Proven negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution skills.
- Experience drafting, interpreting, and administering collective bargaining agreements.
- Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and analytical abilities.
- Proficiency with HRIS and HR analytics tools; strong data interpretation and reporting skills.
- Ability to travel as needed (up to 15 percent).