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Employee Relations Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Employee Relations Partner - EMEA Summary The Employee Relations Partner - EMEA is a key contributor to the Employee Relations Center of Expertise (COE) team and the Human Resources function ...

Sr. HR Investigator (Employee Relations)

Redmond, WA ยท On-site +1

$115K - $150K/yr

SR. HUMAN RESOURCES INVESTIGATOR (EMPLOYEE RELATIONS) We are looking for a skilled and experienced investigator who can objectively, thoroughly, and empathetically investigate sensitive employee ...

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Employee Relations information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$22.2K

$72.9K

$125.8K

How much do employee relations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for employee relations in Seattle, WA is $72,919.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,100.00 and $92,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is employee relations?

An employee relations job is an HR position in which you manage interactions between HR and employees. Your responsibilities include training new employees about various aspects of the workplace culture, such as specific procedures, and how to find support during difficult times and helping them learn how to take advantage of company policies about grievances, promotions, and benefits. Your duties include leading training sessions, working closely with other HR professionals who support your efforts by developing new policies, reviewing company guidelines, and ensuring workers understand their rights and benefits.

How does an employee relations specialist typically collaborate with HR and management to resolve workplace conflicts?

Employee Relations specialists work closely with HR teams and management to address workplace issues such as conflicts, grievances, and disciplinary matters. They often act as mediators, facilitating open communication between employees and supervisors to ensure fair and consistent application of company policies. In addition, they may lead investigations, recommend solutions, and support managers in implementing corrective actions. This collaboration helps maintain a positive work environment and ensures compliance with labor laws and organizational standards.

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

To thrive as an Employee Relations Specialist, you need a solid understanding of labor laws, conflict resolution, and HR policies, often supported by a degree in human resources or a related field. Familiarity with HR information systems (HRIS), case management tools, and sometimes certifications like SHRM-CP or PHR are commonly required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and negotiation skills set standout professionals apart in this role. These skills are vital for fostering a positive workplace environment, ensuring legal compliance, and effectively resolving employee issues.

What is the difference between Employee Relations vs HR Generalist?

AspectEmployee RelationsHR Generalist
Primary FocusManaging employee relationships, conflict resolution, and workplace cultureHandling a broad range of HR functions including recruitment, onboarding, and compliance
Required CredentialsTypically HR certification or related experienceHR certification or degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentEmployee-focused, often within HR teamsVaried, covering multiple HR functions across departments
Industry UsageCommon in organizations emphasizing employee engagementWidely used across industries for general HR duties

While both roles are part of HR, Employee Relations specializes in maintaining positive employee relationships and resolving workplace issues. HR Generalists handle a broader range of HR tasks, including recruitment and compliance. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and professionals to each area.

Is employee relations in demand?

Employee relations is a growing field within human resources, as organizations increasingly focus on workplace culture, employee engagement, and conflict resolution. Demand for professionals with skills in communication, conflict management, and HR software remains strong across various industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Employee Relations jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Employee Relations jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Employee Relations jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Employee Relations jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Employee Relations jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Employee Relations jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Employee Relations jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Employee Relations job openings:

Infographic showing various Employee Relations job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,919 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Employee Relations Manager

YMCA of Pierce & Kitsap Counties

Tacoma, WA โ€ข On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties seeks an Employee Relations Manager to join our team.

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading non-profit, charitable organization committed to strengthening our communityby connecting all people to their potential and purpose, and to each other. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives, and generations, we ensure that we all have access to the opportunities, relationships, and resources necessary to learn, grow, and thrive.

The Employee Relations Manager is responsible for cultivating positive relationships between our employees and directors, providing strategic guidance on employee relations and compliance, and assisting directors in resolving workplace issues. This role manages employee relations processes through understanding and communicating policies, providing guidance to directors and employees, conducting investigations, and providing training on various HR related subjects. This position does not have direct reports. Key responsibilities:

  • Conduct independent investigations on key employee relations issues such as employee complaints, workplace harassment, sexual harassment, discrimination, retaliation, grievances, etc.
  • Participate in problem-solving, mediation, and conflict resolution with employees and/or leadership.
  • Coach and advise leadership in employee relations matters and concerns, discipline, interpretation of policies, grievance resolution, and employment separation.
  • Partner with leadership in writing and/or editing disciplinary actions, performance success plans, letters of expectation, separation letters, and other formal documentation.
  • Conduct trainings to employees and/or leadership in-person and via Microsoft Teams.
  • Assist with the creation, revision, and communication of HR policies and practices.
  • Provide exceptional customer service to staff and leadership members while maintaining professionalism, tact, and respect.
  • Actively listen to employee and leadership concerns or grievances to ensure a thorough understanding of issues presented.
  • Assist leadership with the Reasonable Suspicion process, related testing, discipline, EAP referrals and/or employment separation.
  • Respond to questions and concerns regarding the interpretation and application of human resources policies and procedures, laws, standards, and other government regulations.
  • Maintain proficiency in HR related topics and continuous education on best practices, laws, and trends.
  • Recommend new approaches and other areas of continual improvement to the Sr. HR Director and VP/CHRO.
  • Support and positively affect continuity between the YMCA and employee goals, and safeguard the Y's position at all times.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in human resources or related field or equivalent professional employee relations experience.
  • Minimum of 5 years of employee relations, investigation, and grievance resolution experience is required.
  • Prior experience investigating and responding to EEOC or WSHRC claim notices is highly preferred.
  • Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and consultative skills, with the ability to engage and support employees and leaders across all levels of the organization.
  • Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders at all levels; strong communication and influencing skills are essential for success in this role.
  • Experience in a mission-driven environment with multiple stakeholders and limited resources is highly valued; familiarity with the unique dynamics of child-focused organizations is a strong plus.
  • Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple high-priority tasks in a fast-paced environment; strong organizational skills and adaptability are essential.
  • Ability to operate in both strategic and hands-on capacities in a lean organizational structure.
  • High emotional intelligence and a solution-oriented mindset.
  • Ability to work effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions.
  • Professional proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Outlook, Teams, Word, PowerPoint and Excel) and ADP Workforce Now or other HRIS required.
  • Able to support employees and/or Directors after regular business hours.
  • Holds a valid driver's license, valid insurance, and can drive your vehicle to various YMCA locations throughout Pierce and Kitsap Counties as needed.
  • Must be willing and able to work evenings or on weekends on a limited basis as needed.
  • Must complete an online Child Abuse Prevention training on the first day of employment and complete other online and in-person training throughout employment as required.

Compensation: $95,000.00 to $105,000.00 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.

Position type: Full-Time, exempt, salaried position. This position does not have direct reports.

Location: Hybrid position. Must be able to work remotely and in-person at the YMCA PKC Association Office in Tacoma, WA, two days per week.

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision benefit plan options (with FSA and HSA options)
  • YMCA Membership for you and your household
  • YMCA paid Life and Long-term Disability Insurance
  • Opportunity to participate in the YMCA 403(b) retirement saving plan and 403(b) ROTH plan. After 2 years of Full-Time employment, the YMCA will contribute 8% of your monthly earnings
  • Accrual of 15 days of paid vacation (vacation accruals increase with years of service)
  • 8 paid Holidays/Floating Holidays per calendar year (prorated based on date of hire)
  • Paid Sick Leave accrued at 1.23 hours for every 40 hours worked per year
  • Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), Digital mental health counseling platform, Wellness program, and LifeMart employee discount center
  • 20% discount on YMCA programs, Child Care services, and merchandise

Ignite your Passion, Live the Y Cause, and Join our Team! To apply, visit our website at www.ymcapkc.org.

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is committed to diversity and inclusion throughout our organization and is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled