Employee Relations Manager

About The Role:

In this role you will provide strategic and operational leadership across all employee relations (ER) and industrial relations (IR) matters for OneSteel Manufacturing (OSM), supporting a diverse workforce spanning steelmaking, mining and operational functions.

This role ensures compliance with the Fair Work Act, National Employment Standards, enterprise agreements, Awards, company policies and all relevant industrial instruments, while enabling OSM’s broader transformation and operational goals.

You will lead enterprise bargaining cycles, manage union engagement, oversee dispute resolution and workplace investigations, and guide consultation processes and change management programs. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage all industrial relations frameworks, systems and processes, ensuring they are consistently applied across OSM’s operations.
• Provide authoritative advice to leaders on ER/IR matters including EA interpretation, complex case management, disputes, rostering arrangements, consultation obligations and performance concerns.
• Develop and maintain OSM’s enterprise bargaining strategy, including data preparation, claims assessment, negotiation support, agreement drafting and implementation planning.
• Oversee complex workplace investigations, grievances, bullying and harassment matters, disciplinary processes and Fair Work matters.
• Monitor legislative changes, case decisions and industry trends; prepare impact assessments and implement policy and process updates.
• Maintain strong governance through accurate documentation, reporting, data integrity, and adherence to OSM approval pathways.
• Lead, guide and support the Human Resources function and leaders across the business to build capability in ER/IR fundamentals, conflict resolution, documentation, investigations and EA compliance.
• Ensure all ER/IR policies, templates and procedures are maintained, reviewed and updated regularly, with clear communication and training for leaders.
• Identify, design and implement improvements to ER/IR processes, workflows, templates and governance controls.
• Maintain appropriate controls over personnel (employees and contractors) in line with safety and industrial obligations.

About You:

• Extensive experience in employee relations and industrial relations within heavy industry, manufacturing, resources or similarly complex, unionised environments.
• Tertiary qualifications in Law, Industrial Relations, HR, Business or related field (desired).
• Demonstrated expertise in enterprise bargaining, EA interpretation, union engagement and dispute resolution.
• In-depth understanding of the Fair Work Act, NES, modern awards, enterprise agreements, WHS legislation and contemporary IR practices.
• Strong experience in managing complex workplace matters including investigations, grievances, performance, misconduct, bullying and harassment.
• High-level capability in preparing documentation, investigation reports, briefing notes and case management records.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, negotiation, influence and communication skills across all organisational levels.
• Proven ability to operate in high-change environments, balancing operational needs with compliance requirements.
• Well-developed analytical, problem-solving and risk-assessment skills.
• Ability to build leader confidence and capability through coaching, training and clear guidance.
• Well-developed verbal and written communication skills, including preparing management reports and other documentation.
• Current First Aid certificate (desired) 

Why Work here?

We offer more than just a job; we provide a dynamic environment built on three pillars that define our commitment to both our team and our industry.

• Work with a greater purpose: Join us in the pursuit of a sustainable future as we progress our ambition to become carbon neutral. You will contribute to a legacy that not only helps to build our nation but sustains our environment for future generations. Embrace a culture where differences are celebrated, innovation is embraced and valuing everyone's unique perspectives contributes to our transformation.
• Work well - live better: We understand the importance of working in an environment which supports you to balance your personal and professional life. Experience a culture which values you as a whole person - where family extends to the workplace and your well-being matters. You’ll thrive not only in your career with us, but beyond.
• Build your own future: Step into a culture where every day is an opportunity to grow, and where driving your own development is not just encouraged; it's expected. You’ll be empowered to take the wheel of your learning journey and uncover your potential. The possibilities are limitless.

About Us:

OneSteel Manufacturing operates a mining and steel manufacturing business. As Australia’s only manufacturer of special grade billet and steel long products we provide solutions for nation-building infrastructure including rail. With State and Federal Government investment, the South Australian Mining and Steel Manufacturing assets form part of the sovereign security of Australia’s manufacturing sector.

It is our ambition to cultivate an inclusive workplace that is as diverse as the communities we serve. We encourage candidates from all cultural backgrounds, genders, orientations, age groups, and abilities to apply. Your diversity is our strength in creating sustainable and innovative steel solutions for Australia's tomorrow.

We are a 2025 Circle Back Initiative Employer – we commit to respond to every applicant.