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Employee Relations Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Relativity

Senior Employee Relations Partner

Detroit, MI · On-site

$112K - $168K/yr

The Senior Employee Relations Specialist (Level 6) is a senior IC expert responsible for leading ... Partner closely with Legal to manage risk, escalation thresholds, and compliance requirements

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Employee Relations Manager information

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How much do employee relations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for employee relations manager in Michigan is $85,010.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,300.00 and $101,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

More about Employee Relations Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Employee Relations jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Employee Relations jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Employee Relations Manager jobs in Michigan?

For Employee Relations Manager jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Employee Relations Manager jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Employee Relations Manager jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Employee Relations Manager jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Employee Relations Manager job openings:

Employee Relations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Employee Relations Manager job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,010 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Senior Employee Relations Specialist

The Grosse Pointe Public School System

Grosse Pointe, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Employee Relations Specialist serves as the Chief Personnel Officer's primary professional Human Resources partner and provides day-to-day support in the administration of employee relations, labor relations, recruitment, compliance, and strategic Human Resources initiatives.

Working under the direction of the Chief Personnel Officer, this position provides responsive consultation and coaching to district administrators, conducts workplace investigations, assists with labor contract administration, supports recruitment and retention initiatives, and promotes the consistent application of district policies, collective bargaining agreements, and employment laws.

The Senior Employee Relations Specialist expands the district's Human Resources capacity by providing day-to-day operational leadership and professional Human Resources support while allowing the Chief Personnel Officer to focus on executive leadership, strategic workforce planning, collective bargaining, organizational development, and Board and Superintendent priorities.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Employee Relations

  • Serve as the day-to-day Human Resources partner for principals, supervisors, and district administrators regarding routine employee relations matters.
  • Conduct workplace investigations involving employee complaints, misconduct, policy violations, harassment, discrimination, and other personnel matters under the direction of the Chief Personnel Officer.
  • Prepare investigative reports, findings, and recommendations.
  • Coach administrators regarding performance management, attendance concerns, documentation, conflict resolution, and progressive discipline.
  • Draft disciplinary correspondence, counseling memoranda, performance improvement plans, and settlement documentation.
  • Assist administrators in resolving workplace conflict while promoting positive employee relations.
  • Escalate complex, high-risk, or legally sensitive matters to the Chief Personnel Officer.

Labor Relations

  • Assist the Chief Personnel Officer in administering collective bargaining agreements.
  • Interpret labor contracts and provide day-to-day guidance to administrators regarding contract language.
  • Assist in responding to grievances and preparing supporting documentation.
  • Participate in grievance meetings and labor-management meetings.
  • Support collective bargaining preparation through research, costing, data collection, and implementation of negotiated agreements.
  • Monitor compliance with collective bargaining agreements.

Recruitment & Talent Acquisition

  • Partner with administrators throughout the recruitment and selection process.
  • Coordinate recruitment efforts for instructional, administrative, and exempt staff positions.
  • Participate in interviews and selection processes.
  • Develop recruitment strategies to address hard-to-fill positions.
  • Support executive-level recruitment.
  • Coordinate onboarding for new employees in collaboration with the HR Coordinator.
  • Evaluate recruitment effectiveness and recommend process improvements.

Workforce Planning & Retention

  • Analyze workforce trends including vacancies, turnover, retirements, and staffing patterns.
  • Conduct exit interview analysis and identify retention opportunities.
  • Assist in developing recruitment and retention strategies.
  • Support succession planning initiatives.
  • Prepare workforce analytics and reports for district leadership.
  • Assist with employee engagement and recognition initiatives.

Leadership Support

  • Serve as a trusted advisor to principals and department leaders on routine Human Resources matters.
  • Provide day-to-day guidance regarding employment practices, district policies, and personnel procedures.
  • Assist in developing and delivering administrator training related to employee relations, investigations, documentation, supervision, and labor contract administration.
  • Partner with district leaders to proactively identify and resolve employee concerns.

Compliance & Risk Management

  • Assist in the administration of ADA accommodations and the interactive process.
  • Coordinate FMLA, Workers' Compensation, and other employee leave programs.
  • Monitor compliance with employment laws, Board policy, administrative guidelines, and district procedures.
  • Maintain confidential personnel records and employment documentation.
  • Assist with state reporting and compliance requirements.

Strategic Human Resources

  • Prepare Human Resources reports, Board reports, staffing analyses, and workforce metrics.
  • Assist with implementation of Human Resources initiatives aligned with the district Strategic Plan.
  • Participate in policy review and development.
  • Recommend improvements to Human Resources processes, procedures, and systems.
  • Participate in special projects assigned by the Chief Personnel Officer.

Department Operations

  • Prepare HR Board reports, staffing reports, and required state reports.
  • Track administrator certifications and district compliance requirements.
  • Coordinate executive and administrative hiring processes.
  • Oversee implementation of HRIS contract changes and assist with system troubleshooting.
  • Coordinate special HR initiatives and grant-related personnel projects.
  • Support onboarding of instructional and administrative staff.
  • Collaborate with Payroll, Business Services, and district leadership regarding personnel actions.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief Personnel Officer.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

  • Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Labor Relations, Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field.
  • Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible professional Human Resources experience.
  • Demonstrated experience conducting workplace investigations.
  • Experience providing employee relations guidance and coaching to supervisors.
  • Experience interpreting and administering collective bargaining agreements.
  • Experience in a unionized environment.
  • Knowledge of federal and state employment laws.
  • Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, conflict resolution, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain strict confidentiality.

Preferred

  • Master's Degree.
  • Legal Coursework
  • SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification.
  • Public school Human Resources experience.
  • Collective bargaining experience.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

12-month position, 261 days.

Some evening work required for Board meetings, grievance meetings, negotiations, or special district events.

SALARY

$49,970.88-$74,174.40 hiring range. NIS Members are also eligible for a  comprehensive and competitive benefits package including health/dental/vision/life and long-term disability insurance. Membership in the Michigan Public Schools Employee Retirement System www.michigan.gov/ors. 

Application Procedure:

  • External Applicants: Click on the Apply button to initiate the application process. Please electronically attach or send the following materials:
     
    • Cover Letter
    • Resume
    • Copy of your transcripts



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