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Director Of Employee Relations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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How much do director of employee relations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of employee relations in the United States is $100,880.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $131,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of employee relations, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Employee Relations, you need deep knowledge of employment law, conflict resolution, and HR best practices, typically with a bachelor's or master's degree in human resources or a related field. Familiarity with HR information systems (HRIS), case management software, and relevant certifications like SHRM-SCP or SPHR is highly valuable. Exceptional interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and leadership abilities help build trust and effectively manage sensitive workplace issues. These competencies are crucial for ensuring fair, compliant, and positive work environments that support both organizational goals and employee well-being.

What does a director of employee relations do?

A Director of Employee Relations is responsible for overseeing workplace policies, managing employee grievances, and ensuring healthy employer-employee relationships. They develop and implement strategies to promote a positive work environment, resolve conflicts, and ensure compliance with labor laws. Additionally, they often work with HR teams to create fair company policies, train managers on employee relations best practices, and handle sensitive issues such as workplace investigations. Their goal is to foster a culture of trust and collaboration within the organization.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of employee relations, and how can they effectively address them?

A Director of Employee Relations often encounters challenges such as navigating complex workplace conflicts, ensuring compliance with evolving labor laws, and balancing the needs of both employees and management. Effectively addressing these issues requires strong communication skills, a thorough understanding of employment regulations, and the ability to build trust across all levels of the organization. Proactively fostering a positive workplace culture, providing timely conflict resolution, and staying updated on best practices in employee relations are key strategies for success in this role.
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Infographic showing various Director Of Employee Relations job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,880 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

**Internal Only** Director of Employee Relations

University of Kansas

Lawrence, KS • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago


University Of Kansas rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

122nd of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

50% Employee Relations Leadership and Strategic Planning
  • Lead the University's employee relations function across all KU campuses, ensuring consistent practices aligned with institutional goals, values, and legal requirements.
  • Develop and implement employee relations strategies, programs, policies, and initiatives that support employee engagement, organizational effectiveness, and workplace culture.
  • Partner with HR leadership and campus stakeholders to identify and address workforce challenges and opportunities.
  • Analyze workforce trends, metrics, and organizational data to inform decision-making and continuous improvement efforts.
  • Advise administrators, managers, and supervisors on employee relations matters, including performance management, corrective action, conflict resolution, policy interpretation, and workplace concerns.
  • Lead the resolution of complex employee issues, including disciplinary actions, performance concerns, separations, and non-renewals.
  • Direct and conduct complex workplace investigations involving policy violations, misconduct allegations, and other sensitive employment matters.
  • Facilitate conflict resolution and mediation efforts to improve workplace relationships and outcomes.
  • Represent the University in disciplinary hearings, appeals, grievances and other employment-related proceedings.
  • Partner with the Office of General Counsel to assess risk, ensure compliance, and develop proactive employment strategies.
20% Management and Supervision
  • Provide leadership, supervision, coaching, and professional development for Employee Relations staff.
  • Oversee staffing, workload/caseload management, service delivery, and operational effectiveness.
  • Establish performance expectations and accountability measures to ensure responsive, accurate, and high-quality services.
  • Review and advise on complex employee relations matters and employment actions.
  • Promote continuous improvement in processes, technology, and service delivery.
10% Performance Management
  • Lead the University's performance management program and annual review process.
  • Oversee performance management systems, processes, reporting, training, and continuous improvement efforts.
  • Partner with campus stakeholders to promote effective performance management practices and employee development.
10% Training, Communication, and Workforce Development
  • Develop and deliver employee relations, leadership, and supervisory training programs.
  • Create resources and communication tools that promote employee development, compliance, and management best practices.
  • Support onboarding and development initiatives for supervisors and employees.
  • Collaborate with campus partners to promote employee relations and workforce development initiatives.
  • Participate in labor-management discussions and represent Human Resources in labor relations activities, as assigned.
5% Policy and Compliance
  • Lead the development, review, and implementation of employee relations policies and procedures.
  • Monitor employment law developments and recommend policy or program changes as needed.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert on employment-related policies, compliance requirements, and workplace practices.
  • Partner with University stakeholders to ensure consistent policy interpretation and application.
5% Other Duties as Assigned,This position is open to University of Kansas employees (all campuses) only.
Director of Employee Relations
The University of Kansas seeks an experienced, collaborative, and strategic Director of Employee Relations to lead employee relations programs and initiatives across all KU campuses. This One KU position will be a key member of the Human Resources leadership team, and will serve as a trusted advisor to university leaders, providing expertise in employee relations, workplace investigations, performance management, conflict resolution, policy interpretation, and organizational effectiveness.
The leader partners with campus leadership, Human Resources colleagues, affiliated organizations, and the Office of General Counsel to develop and implement programs that foster a positive, respectful, and high-performing workplace culture. This role leads efforts to strengthen employee engagement, support leadership effectiveness, ensure compliance, and enhance the overall employee experience.
The successful candidate will be a strategic thinker, relationship builder, and leader who combines sound judgment, empathy, confidentiality and business acumen to advance KU's mission and support faculty and staff success.
 

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