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Employee Relations Manager Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Help support Managers with employee relations Requirements HR Manager Qualifications: * Must have ... patience, tact, a cheerful disposition and enthusiasm, as well as the willingness to handle ...

This individual will partner closely with leaders while overseeing employee relations, labor relations, talent acquisition, performance management, and other core HR initiatives. The Human Resources ...

Regularly consults with the Support Office Employee Relations team on escalated employee relations cases and investigations. Responsible for daily entries into our case management system to retain ...

Regularly consults with the Support Office Employee Relations team on escalated employee relations cases and investigations. Responsible for daily entries into our case management system to retain ...

Regularly consults with the Support Office Employee Relations team on escalated employee relations cases and investigations. Responsible for daily entries into our case management system to retain ...

Regularly consults with the Support Office Employee Relations team on escalated employee relations cases and investigations. Responsible for daily entries into our case management system to retain ...

Regularly consults with the Support Office Employee Relations team on escalated employee relations cases and investigations. Responsible for daily entries into our case management system to retain ...

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Employee Relations Manager information

See Madison, WI salary details

$47.9K

$98.3K

$166.3K

How much do employee relations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for employee relations manager in Madison, WI is $98,278.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,500.00 and $116,900.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Employee Relations jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Employee Relations jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Employee Relations Manager jobs in Madison, WI?

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

What job categories do people searching Employee Relations Manager jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Employee Relations Manager jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Employee Relations Manager jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Employee Relations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Employee Relations Manager job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $98,294 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Human Resources & Labor Relations Manager

Madison, WI • On-site


SSM Health

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 551 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

498th of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Recommended by parents


Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

It's more than a career, it's a calling.
WI-SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital - Madison
Worker Type:
Regular
Job Highlights:
Are you an experienced Labor Relations leader who thrives in a union environment? As the Human Resources & Labor Relations Manager, you'll play a key role in leading labor relations strategy, supporting collective bargaining efforts, and partnering with leaders to navigate complex employee and union-related matters. This highly visible position serves as a trusted advisor on contract interpretation, grievance management, negotiations, and employee relations while helping drive a positive and productive workplace culture.
We're seeking a candidate with hands-on experience in union negotiations, strong labor relations expertise, and the ability to influence outcomes through effective collaboration and strategic leadership. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful contribution within a mission-driven healthcare organization while shaping labor and employee relations strategy.
This is an onsite role based at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital in Madison, WI.
Job Summary:
Manages the operational activities of one or more Human Resources functional areas.
Job Responsibilities and Requirements:
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assists with the design, planning and implementation of human resources programs and policies to achieve the strategic business plans.
  • Provides assistance, advice and guidance to employees; provides or coordinates provision of a range of work-related dispute resolution services as required, to include mediation, conciliation, negotiation, and/or formal arbitration. Ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
  • Assists with the development and implementation of Human Resources initiatives.
  • Assists with the development and implementation of activities needed to automate and streamline processes to ensure operational excellence, high reliability and continuous improvement.
  • Provides individual and group advice, guidance, professional support to Human Resources staff and others with respect to interpretation and application of employee relations and associated policies, practices, and procedures. Handles complex,high-profile operational issues.
  • Interprets and provides advice and guidance regarding the terms of the collective bargaining agreements to ensure systemwide administrative compliance.
  • Directs and leads labor negotiators during the collective bargaining process; develops and implements collective bargaining parameters, guidelines, and procedures on behalf of the organization.
  • Researches, identifies, and interprets current and emerging employee and labor relations issues, trends, and opportunities.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION
  • Bachelor's degree

EXPERIENCE
  • 5 years' experience

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Frequent lifting/carrying and pushing/pulling objects weighing 0-25 lbs.
  • Frequent sitting, standing, walking, reaching and repetitive foot/leg and hand/arm movements.
  • Frequent use of vision and depth perception for distances near (20 inches or less) and far (20 feet or more) and to identify and distinguish colors.
  • Frequent use of hearing and speech to share information through oral communication. Ability to hear alarms, malfunctioning machinery, etc.
  • Frequent keyboard use/data entry.
  • Occasional bending, stooping, kneeling, squatting, twisting and gripping.
  • Occasional lifting/carrying and pushing/pulling objects weighing 25-50 lbs.
  • Rare climbing.

REQUIRED PROFESSIONAL LICENSE AND/OR CERTIFICATIONS
  • None

Department:
8711010033 Human Resources-WI
Work Shift:
Day Shift (United States of America)
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
40
Benefits:
SSM Health values our exceptional employees by offering a comprehensive benefits package to fit their needs.
  • Paid Parental Leave: we offer eligible team members one week of paid parental leave for newborns or newly adopted children (pro-rated based on FTE).
  • Flexible Payment Options: our voluntary benefit offered through DailyPay offers eligible hourly team members instant access to their earned, unpaid base pay (fees may apply) before payday.
  • Upfront Tuition Coverage: we provide upfront tuition coverage through FlexPath Funded for eligible team members.

Explore All Benefits
SSM Health is an equal opportunity employer. SSM Health does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity,pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Click here to learn more.

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