Human Resources Business Partner/Associate People Partner

About Us

APM Terminals, part of the Maersk Group, is a global leader in port operations and logistics. With terminals in over 60 countries, we connect and simplify global supply chains. Our Elizabeth, NJ location is entering a transformative phase-a multi-billion-dollar expansion project has just kicked off, making this an incredibly exciting time to join our team and help shape the future of one of the most critical logistics hubs in North America.

We're committed to safety, performance, and creating a workplace where people thrive. If you're passionate about HR and want to make a real impact in a global organization, we'd love to meet you.

The Role

As an HR Business Partner, you'll be a trusted advisor to terminal leaders, supporting them across performance, engagement, compliance, and development. You'll play a key role in implementing HR strategies locally, driving employee experience, and helping our teams thrive during a period of growth and transformation.

What you will do: Key Responsibilities:

Strategic HR Partnership

• Partner with HR Leaders on the implementation of the People Strategy.

• Assist with the implementation of department and company goals, objectives, policies, and procedures.

• Participate in HR process improvement and lean initiatives.

• Monitor workforce data (e.g., talent succession, DEI metrics) and recommend improvements.

Employee Relations & Compliance

• Act as the first point of contact for all employee-related issues, including harassment, wage & hour concerns, leaves of absence, injuries, onboarding, terminations, attendance, investigations, and disciplinary actions.

• Advise on employee relations, disciplinary actions, and compliance with labor laws.

• Conduct employee investigations, gather witness statements, and make recommendations regarding next steps.

• Ensure compliance with various state and federal wage/hour laws, signage, postings, etc.

• Become a subject matter expert in employee relations issues and create a safe space for all.

• Provide support and coaching to managers on employee-related issues.

Talent Management & Development

• Build strong relationships with leaders and teams, offering guidance on performance, engagement, and development.

• Facilitate training sessions, workshops, and HR presentations.

• Assist with company-wide harassment and employee development training programs.

• Lead local deployment of HR programs and initiatives, including Annual Salary Review, MPACT, and Employee Engagement Surveys (EES).

Talent Acquisition & Onboarding

• Support recruitment, onboarding, and employee retention efforts.

• Collaborate with Talent Acquisition on employer branding and hiring strategies.

• Manage Global Mobility cases and ensure a smooth onboarding experience for international hires.

• Streamline Onboarding Process

• Develop Early Careers Program

Offboarding & Continuous Improvement

• Conduct exit interviews and analyze trends to support continuous improvement.

• Assist Managers with termination paperwork, exit interviews, and the off-boarding process.

HR Operations & Systems

• Maintain accurate employee data in Workday and support HR reporting and audits.

• Manage and conduct appropriate audits to ensure data integrity.

What You Bring: Education & Experience Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field

• Min 2-4 years working in an HR function as HR generalist, Business Partner or similar

• Knowledge of US compliance laws

• PHR/SHRM Certification highly desired

• Strong Excel skills preferred-VLOOKUPs, PivotTables, and data analysis

• Able to work onsite 4 days a week

• Personal Attributes:

  • Assertive and confident communicator

  • Trusted advisor with strong influencing skills

  • Quick thinker with sound judgment

  • Able to work independently and take initiative

  • Inspires others and brings positive energy to the team

  • Go-getter mindset with a passion for people and process improvement

Why Join APM Terminals?

• Be part of a global organization with purpose and impact

• Join during a major expansion project and help shape the future of Port Elizabeth

• Work in a dynamic, high-performance terminal environment

• Collaborate with leaders who value HR as a strategic partner

• Grow your career within the Maersk Group's global network

Ready to bring your HR skills to a role where you'll make a real impact?
Apply now and be part of something big.

Maersk is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we embrace different styles of thinking. Maersk is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants without regard to race, colour, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy or parental leave, veteran status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with all legal requirements.

We are happy to support your need for any adjustments during the application and hiring process. If you need special assistance or an accommodation to use our website, apply for a position, or to perform a job, please contact us by emailing accommodationrequests@maersk.com.