HR/IR Manager

Suburban Connect is a consortium of global leaders in tunnelling, comprising CPB Contractors, Ghella, and Acciona Construction. Together, we are delivering the southern section of tunnels for Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East – 16km of twin tunnels between Cheltenham and Glen Waverley, which will be Victoria’s longest transport tunnel. This project is being delivered on behalf of the Suburban Rail Loop Authority (SRLA).

SRL East, spanning from Cheltenham to Box Hill, is now being constructed. Tunnelling is set to commence in 2026, with trains expected to begin running by 2035. The works include 55 cross passages, two tunnel portal structures, two station box excavations, and various associated support tasks.

Your Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role on a major infrastructure project with a leading Tier 1 contractor. As the HR/IR Manager, you will be a trusted advisor to project leadership, driving best-practice people strategies and shaping a high-performing, engaged workforce.

Working closely with the Project Director and key stakeholders, you will lead the development and implementation of HR and Industrial Relations frameworks, policies, and initiatives that support project success while ensuring compliance with industry standards and legislative requirements.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the Project Director, the HR/IR Manager will be an integral member of the project leadership team and will be responsible for:

• Leading all Human Resources and Industrial Relations activities across a large and diverse project workforce.
• Providing expert guidance on employee relations matters, workplace investigations, grievances, disciplinary matters, and performance management.
• Driving workforce planning, mobilisation, succession planning, and talent development strategies to ensure project capability and continuity.
• Designing and implementing impactful onboarding, training, and capability development programs.
• Supporting organisational change initiatives and fostering a positive, high-performance culture where people can thrive.
• Ensuring compliance with employment legislation, enterprise agreements, company policies, and project requirements.
• Analysing workforce data and trends, preparing insightful reporting, and providing recommendations to support informed decision-making.
• Championing diversity, inclusion, employee wellbeing, and engagement initiatives to create an inclusive and productive workplace.\

Our minimum requirements for this role are:

• Degree in Human Resource Management or similar required.
• 7+ years’ HR/IR experience in construction, mining, or manufacturing.
• 3+ years’ experience leading HR/IR teams.
• Strong knowledge of employment legislation, industrial relations, awards, enterprise agreements, and contracts.
• Sound understanding of industry, market, and economic conditions.
• Proven ability to influence, negotiate, and resolve workplace disputes.
• Ability to provide strategic HR/IR advice aligned with business objectives.
• Strong understanding of HR/IR trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and relationship-building skills.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a landmark project with a respected Tier 1 contractor.
• Influence strategic workforce and industrial relations outcomes from project commencement through to delivery.
• Join a collaborative leadership team committed to safety, innovation, and excellence.
• Make a lasting impact by shaping workforce culture, capability, and performance on a project of significant scale and complexity.
• Competitive remuneration and excellent benefits including a health and wellbeing program, discount portal and company-funded salary continuance insurance.
• Flexible work arrangements and a culture that values diversity and innovation.

Please note: This role is being sourced through CPB Contractors directly and we will not accept applications via external recruitment agencies.