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Labor Relations Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Labor Relations information

See Boston, MA salary details

$63.6K

$121K

$180.9K

How much do labor relations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for labor relations in Boston, MA is $120,992.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,800.00 and $138,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Labor Relations jobs in Boston, MA?

For Labor Relations jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Labor Relations jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Labor Relations job openings:

Infographic showing various Labor Relations job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,992 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Labor Relations Representative

Keolis America

Boston, MA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

At Keolis Commuter Services (KCS), we give every team member—and their ideas—a seat for the journey. We are a diverse team made up of different backgrounds, stories, and perspectives, which is our strength. If you’re looking for a career with a company that invests in your future, KCS is the place for you. We Imagine. We Care. We Commit! 

Since 2014, Keolis Commuter Services has been entrusted with operating and maintaining the Commuter Rail network on behalf of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA).  During this time, we have worked to deliver a safe and reliable service, thanks to the knowledge and dedication of our team, and our experience operating transit networks around the world. Today, we're proud of the progress we have made together to deliver a best-in-class service for the Greater Boston community. 

We believe our people are what make us great. That is why we demonstrate a commitment to a safe, healthy, and inclusive culture that welcomes ideas, encourages innovation, and values belonging. Your future starts here. 

At Keolis Commuter Services, LLC we provide a competitive compensation package that is designed to be flexible and comprehensive to meet the needs of our hard-working employees and their families. 

Benefits Package Highlights:  

  • Generous Medical & Rx plan
  • Dental & Vision Plan
  • Railroad Retirement Benefits – a federal program that administers retirement, survivor, unemployment, and sickness benefits to U.S. railroad workers and their families.
  • Fidelity 401K Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Transit and Parking Reimbursement Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Company Sponsored Life & Accidental Death and Dismemberment Benefits
  • Education Assistance
  • Short- & Long-term Disability Benefits
  • Voluntary Benefits Plan options including
    • Supplemental health plans for accidents, critical illness, hospital stays
    • Pet, Home, Auto insurance

Knowledge and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field, or equivalent education, training, and experience.
  • Proven labor relations experience, ideally in the railroad industry.
  • Strong knowledge of labor relations functions, including disciplinary processes, grievances, negotiations, and training.
  • Familiarity with the Railway Labor Act and related labor laws, with a commitment to staying current.
  • Hands-on experience with collective bargaining agreements (CBAs).
  • Proficient in labor relations functions, administrative duties, and employee relations.
  • Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite.

Skills:

  • Exceptional organizational and time-management abilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong interpersonal abilities.
  • Critical thinking, problem-solving, and sound decision-making expertise.
  • High ethical standards, reliability, and resilience in challenging work environments.
  • Draft and manage Labor Relations-specific documents, including Notices of Investigation, Out-of-Service Letters, Rescheduling Letters, and Waivers.
  • Provide leadership and training on Labor Relations policies and practices.
  • Maintain and audit databases for discipline, grievance, and arbitration records to ensure accuracy and completeness.
  • Monitor workplace conditions to ensure compliance with legal standards.
  • Respond to record and document requests from stakeholders in a timely and accurate manner.
  • Create reports and presentation materials as required for various stakeholders.

Key Accountabilities:

  • Lead investigations, interpret policies, analyze trends, and monitor regulatory changes in collaboration with stakeholders.
  • Investigate and document union grievances and contractual issues, following established grievance procedures.
  • Conduct disciplinary investigations, draft charge letters, negotiate settlements, and serve as a Charging Officer in hearings as needed.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders and the Labor Relations team on policy development and review.
  • Assist in the timely gathering, preparation, and maintenance of records/documents required in the administration of CBAs, including discipline, grievances, and arbitration processes.
  • Support Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) processes by preparing required records.
  • Provide regular updates to Labor Relations managers regarding deadlines and meetings.
  • Act as a liaison between field management and the Labor Relations team.
  • Assist in developing and presenting Labor Relations training programs.

Administrative Responsibilities:

  • Maintain accurate employee records and documentation.
  • Prepare and maintain meeting minutes and other administrative correspondence.
  • Participate in performance evaluation processes.
  • Complete additional administrative duties as assigned.

Additional Statements:

  • Drug and alcohol screening: Employment contingent upon passing pre-employment drug and alcohol screen. Also, contingent upon receiving a favorable background check. Must pass a physical examination.
  • Safety commitment: Safety is a way of life at Keolis. By placing safety first, we ensure the wellbeing of our employees, customers, and communities. Together we can become the most successful transportation company in the world. 
  • Environmental commitment: Keolis is committed to protecting the environment by minimizing the impact of operations on our people and the communities in which we operate.
  • EEO statement: Our policy is to afford Equal Employment Opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of their race, color, sex, religion, age, creed, marital status, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, or gender identification. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.
  • Disclaimer and closing statement: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees assigned to this job. Keolis is committed to offering our employees competitive compensation and benefits, opportunities for development and growth throughout an exciting and rewarding career, and the safest work environment possible.

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