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Labor Relations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a Union Manager to lead labor relations at Suzano Packaging's Pine Bluff paperboard mill, serving as the company's primary representative with United Steelworkers (USW). Reporting ...

Develop and implement the organization's labor relations strategy, aligned with business objectives and legal requirements. Collaborate with senior management to define goals, objectives, and ...

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Labor Relations Manager information

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$58.5K

$111.4K

$166.5K

How much do labor relations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for labor relations manager in the United States is $111,369.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $127,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a labor relations manager do?

A Labor Relations Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing the relationship between an organization and its employees, specifically focusing on matters related to labor unions and collective bargaining agreements. They work to resolve disputes, negotiate contracts, interpret labor laws, and ensure that company policies comply with relevant labor regulations. Their goal is to maintain productive working relationships while protecting the interests of both the employer and the employees.

What does a labor relations manager do?

Labor relations managers negotiate contracts and agreements between labor organizations or individual employees and their organization. As a labor relations manager, your primary duties involve researching industry data, handling all aspects of negotiations, and resolving labor disputes. Most labor relations managers work in the human resources department of a company. The career requires knowledge of labor laws, union practices, and bargaining procedures, as well as wage information for your industry. Additional qualifications include at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as business administration or human resources, prior management experience, and strong negotiation skills.

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

To excel as a Labor Relations Manager, you need expertise in labor law, contract negotiation, and dispute resolution, typically supported by a degree in human resources, labor relations, or a related field. Familiarity with HR information systems (HRIS), collective bargaining agreement software, and relevant certifications such as SHRM or HRCI can be advantageous. Outstanding interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to communicate persuasively make a candidate stand out. These competencies are vital to maintain positive employer-employee relationships, ensure compliance, and achieve organizational goals through effective labor management.

How does a labor relations manager typically collaborate with both management and union representatives to resolve workplace disputes?

A Labor Relations Manager acts as a crucial liaison between company management and union representatives, aiming to foster effective communication and resolve workplace disputes efficiently. They participate in negotiations, facilitate meetings, and help interpret labor contracts to ensure both parties' concerns are addressed fairly. This role often requires balancing organizational goals with employee rights, making strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills essential. Successful collaboration builds trust and helps maintain a positive, productive workplace environment.

What is the difference between Labor Relations Manager vs Human Resources Specialist?

AspectLabor Relations ManagerHuman Resources Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in HR, labor relations, or related field; certifications like SHRM-CP or PHR are commonSame as Labor Relations Manager: bachelor’s degree, HR certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentFocuses on union negotiations, employee relations, and compliance within organizationsHandles recruitment, onboarding, employee benefits, and general HR functions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries with unionized workforces such as manufacturing, transportation, and public sectorUsed across various industries including corporate, healthcare, and retail

The main difference is that Labor Relations Managers specialize in union negotiations and employee relations within unionized environments, while Human Resources Specialists handle broader HR functions like recruitment and benefits. Both roles require similar credentials and are essential in organizations with or without union presence.

Is labor relations a stressful job?

Labor relations managers often work in high-pressure environments, as they handle negotiations, conflicts, and compliance issues between employers and employees. The role requires strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage complex and sometimes contentious situations, which can contribute to job stress.

What degree do you need for labor relations manager?

A labor relations manager typically needs a bachelor's degree in human resources, labor relations, business administration, or a related field. Some roles may prefer or require a master's degree or professional certifications in labor relations or HR management. Strong communication, negotiation skills, and knowledge of employment laws are also important for this role.

What cities are hiring for Labor Relations Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Labor Relations Manager job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Labor Relations jobs?

The most popular types of Labor Relations jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Labor Relations Manager jobs?

The top employers for Labor Relations Manager jobs are:

What states have the most Labor Relations Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Labor Relations Manager jobs include:

Infographic showing various Labor Relations Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,369 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

$109K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Heidelberg Materials rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 76 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

425th of 546 rated manufacturers


Job description

Line of Business: Service & Support Pay Range: $109,950.00 – $146,596.66

About Us 

Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest suppliers of building materials. Heidelberg Materials North America operates over 450 locations across the U.S. and Canada with approximately 9,000 employees. 

What You'll Be Doing 

  • Provide expert guidance on collective bargaining agreement (CBA) interpretation, administration, and compliance.  

  • Support and lead collective bargaining negotiations, including strategy development and negotiation of assigned labor agreements.  

  • Manage the grievance process for assigned CBAs, including investigations, settlements, and arbitration preparation.  

  • Partner with business leaders to advise on employee relations matters, including discipline, accommodations, and contract-related issues.  

  • Administer union compliance activities and collaborate with Corporate Benefits to ensure compliance with company-sponsored benefit plans.  

  • Work with operations leadership to optimize staffing, workforce planning, and training practices within unionized facilities.  

  • Conduct wage market analyses, evaluate labor costs, and utilize labor costing models to support contract negotiations and labor relations strategies. 

What Are We Looking For 

  • Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations, Human Resources, Business Management, or a related field preferred.  

  • Three to five years of experience in Human Resources or Operations with significant exposure to labor relations and unionized environments.  

  • Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate documentation and records.  

  • Knowledge of compensation and benefits programs, along with experience representing organizational interests during grievance, dispute resolution, or labor relations proceedings. 

  • Solid business acumen, including an understanding of labor cost structures and their operational impact.  

  • Knowledge of compensation and benefits programs, along with experience representing organizational interests during grievance, labor law, and NLRB (National Labor Relations Board) procedures.

Work Environment 

  • Office and field-based environment supporting multiple operational locations. 

  • Regular interaction with employees, union representatives, HR professionals, and business leaders. 

  • Periodic travel may be required to support labor relations activities, negotiations, and business needs. 

  • Fast-paced environment requiring collaboration, adaptability, and proactive problem-solving. 

  • Reports directly to the Director of Labor Relations US 

What We Offer 

  • Competitive base salary 

  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with an automatic company contribution as well as matching contributions 

  • Highly competitive benefits programs, including:  

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision along with Prescription Drug Benefits 

  • Health Saving Savings Account (HSA), Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) 

  • AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability Coverage as well as Basic Life Insurance 

  • Paid Bonding Leave, 15 days of Paid Vacation, 40 hours of Paid Sick Leave and 10 Paid Holidays 

Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled


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