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Employee Relations Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

State of Iowa

Employee Relations Partner

Ames, IA

$50K - $85K/yr

The Iowa DOT is seeking an Employee Relations Partner to join our dynamic Human Resources team. Are you passionate about delivering exceptional customer service, solving complex problems, and ...

Sears Seating

Labor Relations Coordinator

Davenport, IA · On-site

$65K - $97K/yr

Support supervisors and managers in understanding contract provisions related to attendance ... Employee Relations Support * Assist with employee relations matters, including investigations into ...

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Employee Relations Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$44.6K

$91.6K

$155K

How much do employee relations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for employee relations manager in Iowa is $91,610.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,900.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Employee Relations Manager vs HR Generalist?

AspectEmployee Relations ManagerHR Generalist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in HR, Business, or related field; HR certifications often preferredBachelor's degree in HR, Business, or related field; HR certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentFocus on employee relations, conflict resolution, and policy enforcement within organizationsHandles a broad range of HR functions including recruitment, onboarding, and employee relations
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in medium to large organizations across various industriesWidely used across industries, especially in organizations with dedicated HR teams

In summary, an Employee Relations Manager specializes in managing employee relations and resolving workplace conflicts, while an HR Generalist handles a broader spectrum of HR functions. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to HR departments, but their focus areas differ.

What does an employee relations manager do?

An employee relations manager provides a vital link between employees and management. You focus on problem resolution which may involve non-biased internal investigations. Your responsibilities include a wide range of duties such as oversight of employee rights; this can range from conflict to sexual harassment issues. You also provide guidance for management in regards to worker discipline and termination. You help ensure that the company complies with all required laws and regulations, and work closely with human resources for other tasks such as HR analytics. Work is typically full-time during regular business hours in an office environment. Some positions may require travel.

What does an employee relations manager do?

An Employee Relations Manager is responsible for fostering positive relationships between employees and management within an organization. They handle workplace disputes, ensure compliance with employment laws, and develop policies that support a healthy work environment. Their duties often include investigating complaints, advising management on employee issues, and implementing strategies to improve employee morale and engagement. This role is key to maintaining a productive workplace and preventing legal issues related to employment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an employee relations manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Employee Relations Manager, you need a thorough understanding of labor laws, conflict resolution, and HR best practices, typically supported by a degree in human resources or a related field. Familiarity with HR information systems (HRIS), case management tools, and certifications like SHRM or HRCI are commonly required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, discretion, and the ability to mediate sensitive situations distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for fostering a positive work environment, minimizing legal risks, and ensuring fair and equitable workplace practices.

What are some common challenges faced by employee relations managers, and how are they typically addressed?

Employee Relations Managers often encounter challenges such as resolving complex workplace conflicts, navigating sensitive investigations, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. These situations require strong communication and mediation skills, as well as the ability to remain impartial and confidential. Managers typically address these challenges through ongoing training, clear policies, and close collaboration with HR, legal, and management teams to ensure fair and consistent outcomes.
More about Employee Relations Manager jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Employee Relations jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Employee Relations jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Employee Relations Manager jobs in Iowa? For Employee Relations Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Employee Relations Manager jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Employee Relations Manager jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Employee Relations Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Employee Relations Manager job openings:
Employee Relations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Employee Relations Manager job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,610 per year, or $44 per hour.

Employee Relations Specialist

Cottingham & Butler

Dubuque, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Cottingham & Butler rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 304 rated insurance

Job description

Employee Relations Specialist

We're looking for a proactive, detailoriented Employee Relations Specialist who's ready to jump in and make an impact. In this role, you'll support our Human Resources - Operations team by handling employee relations, managing HRIS systems, and driving the core HR processes that keep our organization running smoothly.

Essential Functions:

Employee Relations

  • Serve as the first point of contact for employee concerns, conducting initial investigations and escalating when appropriate.
  • Coach supervisors on performance and policy matters while supporting training on respectful workplace practices.
  • Identify trends, recommend proactive solutions, and maintain accurate, confidential documentation.

HRIS & Data Management

  • Act as the HRIS expert for configuration, reporting, and data integrity.
  • Lead audits, reconciliations, and compliancedriven reporting.
  • Troubleshoot issues and partner with IT and vendors on improvements.
  • Train HR and operational leaders on system tools and reporting.

Operational HR Support

  • Lead and support HR projects that improve efficiency and experience.
  • Provide handson support during peak seasons and special events.
  • A collaborative, detailoriented, eagertolearn mindset.

If you love variety, collaboration, and being the person people rely on to get things right, apply and bring your strengths to our HR Generalist role!

Benefits

  • Most Benefits start Day 1
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Flex Spending or HSA
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Profit-Sharing/ Defined Contribution (1-year waiting period)
  • PTO/ Paid Holidays
  • Company-paid ST and LT Disability
  • Maternity Leave/ Parental Leave
  • Subsidized Parking
  • Company-paid Term Life/ Accidental Death Insurance

About Cottingham & Butler:

At Cottingham & Butler, we sell a promise to help our clients through life's toughest moments. To deliver on that promise, we aim to hire, train, and grow the best professionals in the industry. We look for people with an insatiable desire to succeed, are committed to growing, and thrive on challenges. Our culture is guided by the theme of "better every day" constantly pushing ourselves to be better than yesterday - that's who we are and what we believe in.

As an organization, we are tremendously optimistic about the future and have incredibly high expectations for our people and our performance. Our ability to grow as a company, fuels investments in new resources to better serve our clients and provide the amazing career opportunities our employees want and deserve. This is why we are a growth company and why we are committed to being better every day. 

Want to learn more? Follow us on www.CottinghamButler.com | LinkedIn | Facebook

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