Area Human Resources Manager

First Student • Remote CT, CT

3d • $115,000 - $125,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

First Student is seeking an experienced Area Human Resources Manager to provide HR leadership and support across multiple operating locations. The role partners with regional and local leaders on employee relations, labor relations, workplace investigations, compliance, and employee development. The supported workforce includes drivers, monitors/aides, technicians, administrative employees, and management staff.

This is a hybrid position based in the Hartford, Connecticut area, with regular in-person site visits to assigned locations. Candidates must live in the Hartford area or be willing to relocate there before starting. Regular travel throughout an assigned Connecticut and New England territory spanning approximately 250 miles is required. The position combines work from home or an operating location with site presence based on employee and business needs.

The role requires English proficiency for training, safety communications, company policies, employment documents, and other job-related communications. The annual salary is $115,000–$125,000, depending on experience.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources.
• At least five years of HR experience, including employee relations, labor relations, employment law, and training and development.
• Experience supporting unionized workforces and managing labor relations.
• Reside in the Hartford, Connecticut area or be willing to relocate there before starting.
• Ability to travel and maintain a regular site presence at all assigned area locations.
• Working knowledge of employment laws and wage-and-hour requirements.
• Strong written and verbal communication, interpersonal, and administrative skills.
• Sound judgment and ability to handle sensitive information confidentially.
• Proficiency with standard office software and HR systems.
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and partner effectively with employees and leaders.
• English proficiency for job-related communications.

Nice To Haves

• Residence within driving distance of a First Student location is preferred.
• Experience providing HR support across multiple operating locations.

Responsibilities

• Advise regional and location leaders on employee relations, dispute resolution, policy interpretation, performance management, leave administration, and compensation.
• Support labor relations, including grievance handling and labor contract administration, in partnership with management and labor counsel.
• Maintain regular contact with assigned locations to build effective relationships with employees and managers.
• Conduct fair, thorough workplace investigations and support responses to agency complaints and internal or external audits.
• Coach managers on addressing employee concerns consistently and appropriately.
• Support compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, including wage-and-hour requirements.
• Partner with Talent Acquisition on hiring initiatives and staffing needs associated with new operations.
• Deliver training on employee relations, performance management, and employment practices.
• Develop employee engagement action plans and monitor progress.
• Support leadership development, organizational changes, and location openings and closings.
• Implement HR initiatives and report results to regional leadership.
• Travel throughout the assigned Connecticut and New England territory and maintain a regular site presence at all assigned area locations.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Paid time off, paid sick time, and paid holidays.
• Access to earned-wage and employee rewards programs.
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• A supportive, collaborative work environment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager