Labor Relations Manager (Employee & Labor Relations Manager)

Westmihcc; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Comprehensive benefits

Work-life balance

Career growth

Make a difference

Job summary

City of Grand Rapids is seeking a Labor Relations Manager with expertise in labor relations, collective bargaining, and employee relations to lead negotiations and administer labor contracts for a productive and equitable workforce.

You will supervise HR professionals, advise leadership on investigations and disciplinary matters, and ensure compliance with employment laws and City policies. A master’s degree or J.D. is preferred, with a bachelor's degree and five years of relevant experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, or related field.
• Five years of progressively responsible professional and supervisory experience in employee and labor relations, including collective bargaining, serving as a management spokesperson, and conducting internal investigations.
• Strong negotiation, leadership, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead collective bargaining negotiations and serve as the City's chief negotiator.
• Interpret and administer labor contracts and resolve grievances.
• Advise City leadership on employee relations, investigations, and disciplinary matters.
• Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws, regulations, and City policies.
• Supervise HR professionals and develop effective labor relations strategies.

Skills

Negotiation

Leadership

Communication

Analytical

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in business administration/public administration/related field

Master's degree/JD/HR certification preferred

Job description

Labor Relations Manager (Employee & Labor Relations Manager)

Are you an experienced HR professional with expertise in labor relations, collective bargaining, and employee relations? Join the City of Grand Rapids and help shape workplace policies, strengthen labor-management partnerships, and support a productive and equitable workforce.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Lead collective bargaining negotiations and serve as the City's chief negotiator.
• Interpret and administer labor contracts and resolve grievances.
• Advise City leadership on employee relations, investigations, and disciplinary matters.
• Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws, regulations, and City policies.
• Supervise HR professionals and develop effective labor relations strategies.

WHAT YOU BRING

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, or a related field.
• Five years of progressively responsible professional and supervisory experience in employee and labor relations, including collective bargaining, serving as a management spokesperson, and conducting internal investigations.
• Strong negotiation, leadership, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

A master's degree, Juris Doctor (J.D.), or professional HR certification is preferred.

Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

WHY WORK FOR THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS?

• Competitive Pay & Job Stability – Build a rewarding career with competitive compensation.
• Comprehensive Benefits – Medical, dental, vision, and retirement savings benefits.
• Work-Life Balance – Paid vacation, sick time, holidays, and parental leave.
• Career Growth – Access professional development, training, and tuition reimbursement.
• Make a Difference – Serve your community and help improve residents’ quality of life

BUILD A REWARDING CAREER WHILE MAKING A MEANINGFUL DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY!

Join a team committed to serving the Grand Rapids community through collaboration, accountability, innovation, and excellent public service.

Additional Postings available from City of Grand Rapids