What are the responsibilities and job description for the Labor and Employee Relations Manager - Hybrid position at Wellesley College?
At Wellesley, our mission is to deliver an outstanding liberal arts education
to women who will make a difference in the world. Our collaborative
community, comprising of faculty, students, staff, and alumnae, is guided by
our shared commitment to educational excellence. Join us in this transformative journey!
When applying for the position, please ensure a thorough review of the job
details. If you are an internal employee, kindly utilize the internal portal on
Workday for your application. Prepare a comprehensive resume/cv and cover
letter for upload. Acceptable formats for these documents are either PDF
(.pdf) or Word (.doc).
Job Posting Title
Labor and Employee Relations Manager - Hybrid
Job Description Summary
Administrative Exempt
Job Description
Reporting to the Director of Labor and Employee Relations, the Labor and Employee Relations Manager plays a key role in creating a positive working environment by working closely with College senior leaders, managers, and administrative and union staff. Proactively addresses labor and employee relations issues and opportunities across the College. Responsibilities include maintaining productive relationships with union partners, collaborating with the Director of Labor and Employee Relations on core labor relations functions including grievance handling, contract administration, and collective bargaining, employment policy development and interpretation, and providing advice and guidance on employment matters to managers and supervisors.
Position Responsibilities:
- Meets with and provides advice and guidance to campus leaders, Department Heads, supervisors, managers, and employees on work-related issues, with a focus on advising on strategic issues to improve employee and labor relations.
- Serves as a key member of the College’s bargaining team in contract negotiations with campus unions. Provides support during contract negotiations, including preparation of negotiation materials. Assists in contract administration and compliance, including contract interpretation, grievance processing, and coordination of joint labor-management committees.
- Participates in the development and delivery of formal and informal training for managers on various labor and employment topics including collective bargaining agreements, policies and procedures, absence management, corrective discipline, and federal, state, and local laws. Maintains current knowledge of employment law and labor relations trends, best practices, legal decisions, and statutory changes.
- Develops and maintains a positive working relationship with leaders and representatives of campus union partners to address and resolve labor relations matters.
- Works collaboratively with other members of the HR team and on special projects or strategic initiatives.
- Collaborates with departments across the College including the Office of the General Counsel, Risk Management, Ombuds, Accessibility and Disability Resources and the Nondiscrimination Initiatives/Title IX office on employment and labor matters, including complaints, investigations, arbitrations, and litigation.
- Maintains employment related documents and files. Responds to union information requests and other requests for employment related documentation.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s Degree or above in a related field or equivalent experience required
- A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible labor and employee relations experience, preferably in a higher education institution.
- SHRM certification is a plus.
- Knowledge of employment and labor laws and HR best practices.
Skills and Abilities :
- Strong computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office specifically Outlook, Word, Excel, & PowerPoint.
- Knowledge of employee database systems, such as Workday.
- Excellent verbal and written communications skills and the ability to recommend solutions in a tactful and professional manner.
- Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and sensitivity.
- Must possess excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and the ability to maintain composure in stressful situations and to handle changing priorities.
Other:
Hybrid schedule, subject to business needs. Flexibility is required, as the role involves in-person commitments such as negotiations, meetings, grievance hearings, and union-related discussions. The number of in-office days may vary based on these requirements.
Company Description
Wellesley’s mission is to provide an excellent liberal arts education to women who will make a difference in the world. We advance our mission by working together as a community—faculty, students, staff, and alumnae.
Embark on a fulfilling career journey at Wellesley College, where we prioritize your well-being and professional growth. As a valued member of our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive array of benefits and resources designed to enhance both your work-life balance and long-term success.
- Competitive Compensation: Experience competitive wages ensuring your dedication is recognized and rewarded.
- Exceptional Benefits Package: Access a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision and pre-tax saving benefits, life insurance, disability coverage, and more to safeguard your health and that of your loved ones.
- Commuting and Transportation: Enjoy the convenience of free parking on our picturesque campus, easily accessible from major roadways. We are also accessible via the MBTA commuter rail.
- Paid Time Off: Take advantage of paid vacations, personal days, sick time, and holidays to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life harmony.
- Retirement Savings: Plan for the future with our retirement savings plan. Wellesley College contributes up to 10.5% towards your 403(b) plan for eligible employees
- Work/Life and Wellness: A hybrid work environment for select positions (additional details will be provided during the interview process), caregiving support through Wellthy, legal plan insurance, pet insurance discount and a variety of other resources including retirement planning, and access to cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
- Professional Development: Enhance your skills and explore growth opportunities through continuing training and pathways for growth within our supportive environment.
- Tuition and Education Benefits: Invest in your education with tuition benefits, and access resources to navigate student loan forgiveness, reinforcing our commitment to your ongoing learning.
- Campus Privileges: Enjoy free use of our state-of-the-art athletic and fitness facilities with onsite fitness classes, Library resources, and seize opportunities to attend diverse campus events that contribute to a vibrant community.
Apply today and take your first step toward a rewarding career with Wellesley College – where your unique strengths and success are celebrated as part of our shared commitment to inclusivity.
Worker Sub-Type
Administrative
Time Type
Full time
EEO Statement
At Wellesley, we embrace and honor difference and diversity. We believe the best ideas—the best solutions—draw on a range of voices, perspectives, and experiences. As a college, and as a community, we are dedicated to assuring that all members of the Wellesley community have an equal opportunity to flourish.
Wellesley College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals in hiring and advancement based on any legally protected status. Candidates who believe they can contribute to the College community are encouraged to apply.
