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Labor Relations Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Labor Relations information

See Minnesota salary details

$57.3K

$109.1K

$163.1K

How much do labor relations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for labor relations in Minnesota is $109,076.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,100.00 and $124,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Labor Relations specialists act as key intermediaries between management and union representatives, facilitating communication and negotiation during disputes or contract discussions. They often organize and participate in meetings, clarify contract terms, and mediate disagreements to ensure both parties' concerns are addressed fairly and within legal guidelines. This role requires strong interpersonal and negotiation skills, as well as a thorough understanding of labor laws and collective bargaining agreements. Working closely with HR, legal teams, and union leaders, Labor Relations specialists help maintain a productive and cooperative work environment.

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

To thrive in Labor Relations, you need a solid understanding of labor laws, contract negotiation, and conflict resolution, typically supported by a degree in human resources or industrial relations. Familiarity with HR information systems (HRIS), collective bargaining software, and relevant certifications like SHRM or PHR is often expected. Strong interpersonal skills, diplomacy, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These capabilities are crucial for fostering positive employer-employee relationships, ensuring legal compliance, and facilitating productive workplace negotiations.

Is labor relations a stressful job?

Labor relations professionals often work in high-pressure environments involving negotiations, conflict resolution, and compliance with labor laws, which can contribute to job stress. The role requires strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage complex and sometimes contentious situations, making it potentially stressful for some individuals.

What is the difference between Labor Relations vs Human Resources?

AspectLabor RelationsHuman Resources
Primary FocusManaging employer-union relationships, collective bargaining, labor agreementsEmployee recruitment, onboarding, benefits, compliance, and employee relations
Work EnvironmentUnionized workplaces, industries with collective bargainingVarious industries, non-unionized settings
Required CredentialsLabor relations certifications, labor law knowledgeHR certifications, general management or business background
Employer UsageLarge organizations with unionized employeesMost organizations, including non-unionized

While both roles involve employee management, Labor Relations primarily focuses on union negotiations and collective bargaining, whereas Human Resources handles overall employee management, policies, and benefits. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and professionals to each area.

What is labor relations?

Labor relations refer to the interactions between employers and employees, particularly regarding the negotiation and enforcement of collective bargaining agreements, workplace conditions, and dispute resolution. Professionals in labor relations often work to ensure compliance with labor laws, facilitate communication between management and unions, and help resolve conflicts that arise in the workplace. Their goal is to foster a productive work environment while protecting the rights and interests of both employees and employers.

What degree do you need for labor relations?

A bachelor's degree in labor relations, human resources, industrial relations, or a related field is typically required for labor relations roles. Advanced positions may prefer or require a master's degree or relevant certifications such as the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP. Strong communication, negotiation skills, and knowledge of employment laws are also important.
What are the most commonly searched types of Labor Relations jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Labor Relations jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Labor Relations jobs in Minnesota? For Labor Relations jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Labor Relations jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Labor Relations job openings:
Infographic showing various Labor Relations job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,076 per year, or $52.4 per hour.

Employee Relations Manager - Labor Relations

Scott County

Shakopee, MN • On-site

$117K - $138K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Scott County (Minnesota) rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 841 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Hiring Range:

$117,452 - $138,176/annually

Full Pay Range:

$110,537.02 - $172,731.52

Job Summary:

As a member of the Employee Relations Management Team, the incumbent works independently for expert management and implementation of Employee Relations/Human Resources policy and procedures, programming, and operations. Incumbent works with the Director to provide leadership, guidance, support, and direction to staff, supervisors, managers, directors, and elected officials on a wide variety of human resource topics, issues, and practices. Oversees and provides program planning and direct supervision for staff in program areas assigned. Performs highly specialized and complex work in the application of state and federal employment law and serves as a subject matter expert on Employee Relations/Human Resources.

Scott County is seeking a Labor Relations Manager with expertise in labor relations, collective bargaining, and employment law. This highly independent leadership role partners closely with the ER Director to shape labor strategy, guide contract administration, and support a positive, equitable workplace culture.

Program Focus

  • Serve as a subject matter expert in labor relations, providing guidance on collective bargaining, contract interpretation, grievance resolution, and compliance with state and federal labor laws (ADA, FMLA, FLSA, Public Employment Labor Relations Act, Minnesota Veteran's Preference Act).

  • Serves as primary negotiator in collective bargaining negotiations, grievance arbitrations, mediations, and related labor proceedings; develop and implement negotiation strategies aligned with operational, financial, and legal interests.

  • Advise management, supervisors, and elected officials on labor relations policy, contract provisions, and best practices to ensure consistent and compliant application of labor agreements.

  • Administer labor contracts by guiding departments on contract interpretation, avoidance of grievances, and proper application of discipline; manage grievance procedures and represent the organization in dispute resolution.

  • Conduct research and analysis of labor markets, precedents, and economic data to inform bargaining positions and strategic planning; prepare briefs and reports for leadership and governing bodies as assigned by ER Director.

  • Maintain effective working relationships with union representatives, county attorney staff, and labor management committees; participate in labor negotiation strategy sessions and provide input on scenarios, options, and impacts regarding bargaining positions.

  • Provide technical assistance and advice on the application of rules, regulations, and practices related to labor relations; draft, interpret, and administer labor contract provisions and implement supporting processes.

General Essential Duties

  • Plans, develops, and implements Employee Relations programs, policies, and procedures consistent with HR best practices, state, and federal laws/regulations, county policies. Work is done in support of business goals and objectives, working collaboratively with others promoting practices of empathy, respect, understanding, and active listening.

  • Oversees, supervises, and coordinates the work of other employees; hires, promotes, mentors, and trains employees. Makes work assignments, directs work, evaluates performance, rewards, and disciplines.

  • Serves as coach and mentor to others addressing issues, providing policy and practice guidance, and providing training and education for program area implementation across a multi-disciplined organization. Provides advice and counsel on people management issues; directs and guides ER department staff in their work on these matters.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Equivalency of a Bachelor's Degree and six (6) years' of professional level, increasingly responsible and in the realm of HR program administration, implementation, and development and staff oversight.

  • 1 or more years' experience managing HR programs or staff.

Preferred

  • Five or more years of experience performing duties directly related to those in the position, including handling grievances and acting as a labor negotiator.

If you are interested in viewing the entire job description, please use the following link: https://www.scottcountymn.gov/837/Job-Descriptions.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.

The class specification may not include all work that may be assigned or restrict the emphasis of the work assigned. The eligible register developed from this posting may be used to fill future FT and PT vacancies within this classification.

Work Location:

Shakopee, MN

A comprehensive benefits package is provided for all employees who work 20 hours per week or more. For detailed benefit information visit the Scott County Benefit Hub using this LINK


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