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What does a Labor Relations Specialist do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A labor relations specialist is responsible for maintaining harmonious relationships between employees and management. They work to resolve conflicts and grievances, and negotiate contracts.

Labor Relations Specialist job duties include:

  • Advise management on labor relations issues and represent the company in grievance meetings and arbitration hearings
  • Negotiate collective bargaining agreements with unions
  • Administer employee benefit programs related to union contracts, such as health insurance and pension plans
  • Investigate union organizing campaigns and file unfair labor practice charges with the National Labor Relations Board
  • Develop and implement strategies to prevent or resolve union organizing efforts
  • Educate managers and supervisors on their rights and responsibilities under labor laws
  • Monitor compliance with labor laws and union contracts
  • Keep abreast of developments in the field of labor relations through reading, research, and attendance at seminars and conferences
  • Prepare reports on labor relations activities for senior management

Labor Relations Specialist Job Requirements

A Labor Relations Specialist typically needs a bachelor's degree in human resources, labor relations, business administration, or a related field. Many employers prefer candidates who have a master's degree in human resources or labor relations. Certification is not required, but it may give job seekers an advantage in the hiring process. Employers also value experience, so candidates with relevant work experience may have an advantage over those without it.

Labor Relations Specialist Skills

  • Negotiation
  • Communication
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Human Resources
  • Employment Law
  • Organizational Skills
  • Writing
  • Research
  • Analysis
  • Public Speaking
  • Interpersonal Skills

Related: Top Labor Relations Specialist Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Labor Relations Specialist

The role of a labor relations specialist is to help resolve disputes between employees and management. They work with both sides to ensure that the workplace is fair and productive. To become a labor relations specialist, you will need to have strong communication and negotiation skills. You should also be familiar with employment law and have a solid understanding of the collective bargaining process.

Related: Labor Relations Specialist Resume Example

Related: Labor Relations Specialist Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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