Human Resources Manager

Who We Are

At UES, we’re a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

Human Resources Manager to join our growing firm. This salaried position will join our current regional HR team of 7, which represents the face of UES in Texas and is part of a larger national network of HR professionals totaling 50+. As a part of this dynamic team, you will be responsible for leading and managing the routine functions of the Human Resources (HR) department for our Houston Branches. This role enforces company policies and practices, supports payroll accuracy and approval, assists with benefits questions and enrollment, and administers employee leaves of absence in partnership with HR and corporate teams.

Responsibilities

• Partners with the local leadership and the Sr. Director of HR to understand and execute the organization’s human resource and talent strategy particularly as it relates to current and future talent needs, recruiting, retention, and succession planning.
• Provides support and guidance to the HR Coordinator, management, and other staff when complex, specialized, and sensitive questions and issues arise; may be required to administer and execute routine tasks in delicate circumstances such as providing reasonable accommodations, investigating allegations of wrongdoing, and terminations.
• Partners with the regional TABPs on the talent acquisition process, which may include interviewing, and hiring of qualified job applicants, particularly for managerial, exempt, and professional roles; collaborates with TABPs and departmental managers to understand skills and competencies required for openings. Facilitating new hire onboarding and delivering engaging orientation presentations.
• Oversee and manage employee relations issues, investigations, and corrective actions in a timely, objective, and legally compliant manner.
• Ensure consistent application of HR policies and procedures, and update documentation as needed in alignment with federal, state, and local labor laws.
• Lead HR processes including annual performance reviews, compensation changes, employee development plans, and succession planning efforts.
• Facilitate training programs and compliance initiatives related to safety, harassment prevention, and leadership development.
• Partner with Sr. Director of HR to create learning and development programs and initiatives that provide internal development opportunities for employees.
• Partner with Payroll and Benefits teams to address employee questions, leave of absence requests, and personnel transactions.
• Monitor HR metrics (e.g., turnover, engagement, headcount) to identify trends and develop solutions.
• Promote a culture of inclusivity, professional growth, and operational excellence across both technical and administrative teams.
• Maintain accurate and confidential employee records in compliance with company policy and legal requirements.
• Support internal and external audits by providing required documentation and insights.
• Contribute to special projects or company initiatives related to integration, policy standardization, or system implementation.

Supervisory Responsibilities / Experience Preferred

• Interviews, hires, and trains HR staff (currently 1 direct report).
• Oversees the daily workflow of the department.
• Assists with performance evaluations.
• Handles discipline and termination of employees in accordance with company policy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required; HR certification (PHR, SHRM-CP) preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive HR experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or HR business partner role.
• Solid understanding of federal and state employment laws, wage and hour compliance, and HR best practices.
• Proficiency with HRIS platforms, Microsoft Office Suite, and collaboration tools.
• Excellent communication, coaching, and conflict resolution skills.
• Proven ability to build partnerships, manage sensitive issues with discretion, and influence organizational outcomes.
• Experience supporting field-based or technical teams within engineering, environmental services, or construction-related industries is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Ability to travel to regional office and field locations as needed (up to 15%).

Required Skills / Abilities

• Demonstrates a servant-leadership approach - approachable, kind, and people-focused, fostering trust and connection at all levels of the organization.
• Maintains an open-door mindset - actively listens, offers support, and creates a safe, welcoming environment where employees feel valued and heard.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Thorough knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn the organization’s HRIS and talent management systems.

Travel Requirements

• This position does not require regular travel as part of its primary responsibilities. However, occasional travel may be required, up to 10%, primarily for occasional off-site meetings, training sessions, or company events. Travel, when necessary, will be communicated in advance and aligned with business needs.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• This position primarily operates in a professional office environment, requiring the ability to work at a desk for extended periods while using a computer, phone, and standard office equipment. • The position involves sitting for extended periods, performing data entry, and engaging in frequent communication via email, phone, and in-person interactions. • The role involves regular communication with team members, clients, and stakeholders, both in person and through virtual platforms. • The physical demands of the job may include occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting of office materials up to 15 pounds.

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement here