Human Resources Lead, Labor Relations

Company overview 

BorgWarner is a global product leader in propulsion solutions. We focus on developing leading powertrain technologies that improve fuel economy, emissions, and performance. Our facilities are located across the globe to provide local support for our diverse customer base. 

BorgWarner is a company of independent problem solvers who share a passion for the latest vehicle technology, enjoy working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, and desire to play a key role in redefining the transportation landscape. 

We engage this dedicated group of employees with significant work, outstanding technologies, elite facilities, and a culture that respects diversity and rewards excellence. It’s an atmosphere that fosters personal growth.

Position Summary

The Human Resources Lead serves as a strategic business partner supporting labor relations, employee relations, workforce planning, talent acquisition, compliance, and employee engagement initiatives across the Ithaca campus. This role has primary responsibility for collective bargaining agreement administration, grievance management, labor relations strategy, and advising leaders on workforce matters. The position also provides supervision, coaching, and development for junior Human Resources staff while ensuring consistent application of company policies, labor agreements, and employment practices.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

Labor Relations

• Serve as the primary HR resource for labor relations matters, including contract interpretation, grievance administration, investigations, and dispute resolution.
• Partner with operational leaders and union representatives to maintain positive labor-management relationships.
• Prepare for and participate in collective bargaining negotiations, including research, data analysis, proposal development, and bargaining support.
• Monitor labor relations trends and recommend proactive solutions.
• Provide training and guidance to managers on labor agreements, employment law, and workplace policies.

Human Resources Leadership

• Supervise and develop junior Human Resources personnel.
• Partner with leaders on employee relations, performance management, organizational changes, and workforce planning.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and retention efforts.
• Implement HR initiatives, process improvements, and policy updates.

Human Resources Operations

• Ensure compliance with labor agreements, employment laws, and company policies.
• Maintain HRIS data integrity and prepare workforce metrics and reports.
• Support compensation, talent development, succession planning, and employee engagement initiatives.
• Participate in cross-functional projects and programs.

What we are looking for

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, Labor Relations, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Five or more years of progressive HR experience; manufacturing preferred.
• Strong labor relations experience, including CBA administration and grievance handling.
• Experience supporting collective bargaining negotiations preferred.
• Previous experience leading, mentoring, or supervising HR staff preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and HRIS systems, preferably Workday.

Compensation Range

• $100,000 - $114,325

Core Competencies

• Labor Relations & Contract Administration
• Leadership & Coaching
• Employee Relations
• Negotiation & Conflict Resolution
• Business Acumen
• Communication & Influence
• Problem Solving
• Organizational Agility
• Ethics & Integrity
• Customer Focus

Visa language

BorgWarner does provide sponsorship for employment visa status based on business need. However, for this position, please only apply if you DO NOT need sponsorship to work in the Unites States now or in the future. We are unable to consider candidates who require sponsorship. 

Safety 

This position will enforce the Safety Program, including safety rules, practices and training as outlined in the BorgWarner Safety Policy, which includes the use of equipment, protective devices, or clothing that the employer requires. This individual will work in manners that stress the importance of preventing accidents and illnesses. The professional must take every precaution reasonable in the given circumstance for the protection of themselves and coworkers. In addition, the individual is trusted with reporting all injuries and/or possible dangerous situations, incidents, or occurrences. 

Equal employer opportunity statement 

BorgWarner is an equal employment opportunity employer such that all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. 

Reasonable Accommodation 

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform crucial job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation. 

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