Labor and Employee Relations Manager

Labor and Employee Relations Manager Human Resources Agency Overview

Felton Institute responds to the needs of our community by providing innovative, evidence-informed social services that transform lives. Our organization offers 50+ programs that address mental health, the unhoused, early care and education, those impacted by the justice system, transitional age youth, as well as aging adults. Our programs combine the latest scientific research with cultural sensitivity and a deep commitment to supporting and reflecting the communities we serve.

Felton offers a dynamic, challenging, and supportive work environment where we encourage the use of professional development, that staff can utilize throughout their career.

The Labor and Employee Relations Manager supports the Chief People & Labor Relations Officer (CPLRO) to enhance the organization’s labor and employee relations strategy. This position is responsible for managing complex employee relations matters, overseeing labor contract administration, ensuring compliance with employment laws and organizational policies, and fostering a culture of respect, transparency, accountability, and collaboration. The Manager serves as a resource and advisor to leaders across the organization and plays a critical role in maintaining positive, constructive, and professional relationships with union partners.

• Manage administration of collective bargaining agreements, ensuring consistent and accurate interpretation and implementation across departments.
• Serve as a primary representative in union employee issues.
• Manage, track, and analyze union information requests, grievances, arbitrations, and contractual timelines.
• Provide strategic recommendations to CPLRO.
• Build and maintain effective, professional working relationships with union representatives.

• Lead and manage complex employee relations cases, including investigations, conflict resolution, disciplinary actions, and policy interpretation.
• Conduct fair and thorough investigations with high standards of documentation, neutrality, and confidentiality.
• Provide coaching and guidance to supervisors, managers, and staff on employee relations issues, workplace expectations, and performance management.
• Identify patterns and trends in employee relations matters and recommend proactive interventions to improve workplace climate and retention.

• Lead or contribute to cross-functional HR projects, data reporting, workforce analytics, and organizational initiatives.
• Collaborate with leadership to support change management efforts and organizational effectiveness.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the CPLRO.

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field required.
• Master’s degree or HR certification (PHR/SPHR/SHRM‑CP/SCP) preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in employee relations, labor relations, or human resources, preferably in a nonprofit or healthcare setting.
• Demonstrated hands‑on experience working directly with unions, including:
  • Interpreting and administering collective bargaining agreements
  • Handling grievances and information requests
  • Participating in labor‑management meetings
  • Supporting or preparing for negotiations
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and facilitation skills with the ability to manage conflict and influence outcomes effectively.
• Proven ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
• Strong analytical and critical‑thinking skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and provide strategic, solutions‑focused guidance to leadership.

Reports to:

CPLRO

Job Type: Full‑time

Work Schedule:

Hybrid

FLSA Status:
Exempt

Salary Range – $90,000 – $100,000 Annually (DOE)

Benefits (subject to election and eligibility):
Fully‑Paid Medical and Dental Plans;
Health Reimbursement Card;
Paid Time Off (personal, vacation, and sick time); 403B with company match.

Candidates should apply for the position at our career page “careers.felton.org” OR directly email resumes to “jobs”.

IMP

NOTE:

Job responsibilities are subject to change according to program requirements