Labor Relations Manager

Columbia College Chicago•Chicago, IL

21h•$75,000 - $90,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Columbia College Chicago is an acclaimed undergraduate and graduate institution that provides a comprehensive education in the arts, communications, and public relations. We constantly aim to reach our full potential as an educational innovator, incubator of new creative practice and generator of real-world success for young creatives. We are in the heart of Chicago, across the street from historic Grant Park, and housed in some of the most iconic buildings in the South Loop. Columbia College Chicago is a private urban institution of approximately 4,000 undergraduate and graduate students, four-year College offering a distinctive curriculum that blends liberal arts, creative and media arts and business is currently searching for a General Labor Manager. POSTION SUMMARY: Reporting to the Vice President of Legal Affairs and General Counsel, the Labor Relations Manager provides strategic counsel and operational support for the institution’s labor and employee relations programs. This role serves as a key advisor and subject matter expert on labor matters, fostering productive relationships with unions, ensuring compliance with collective bargaining agreements, and aligning labor strategies with institutional goals. The position supports the administration of collective bargaining agreements, facilitates grievance management, addresses employee concerns, and ensures adherence to applicable labor laws and institutional policies. As a resource to supervisors, managers, and employees, the Labor Relations Manager promotes effective communication and collaborative workplace relationships. In partnership with the Office of the Provost, Human Resources, academic leadership, and administrative departments, this role contributes to a work environment that supports the college’s academic and operational mission. Flex work options are available.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in human resources, industrial relations, business administration, or a related field.
At least three (3) years of experience in labor relations, employee relations, or HR operations; higher education labor relations experience preferred.
Experience participating in collective bargaining or union negotiations in higher education a plus.
Knowledge of compliance and regulatory reporting related to labor relations.
Familiarity with collective bargaining agreements, labor laws, and grievance processes.
Strong interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
Strong organizational and analytical skills, with attention to detail.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and across functional teams.
Proficiency with HRIS, case management systems, and standard office software.
Ability to independently lead projects or initiatives in labor relations.

Nice To Haves

higher education labor relations experience preferred
Experience participating in collective bargaining or union negotiations in higher education a plus

Responsibilities

Assist in the administration and interpretation of collective bargaining agreements, ensuring compliance with contract provisions.
Serve as a point of contact for union representatives and employees regarding labor and employment-related inquiries.
Support the grievance and dispute resolution process, including documentation, tracking, and coordination with management or legal counsel.
Monitor and track labor relations activities, maintaining accurate case records and reporting metrics as needed.
Advise managers and supervisors on policy interpretation, labor law compliance, and day-to-day employee relations issues.
Cultivate and maintain collaborative, constructive relationships with union representatives.
Attend and facilitate monthly labor management meetings with staff union leadership to support collaborative problem-solving, track issues, and promote positive labor-management relationships.
Participate in labor-management meetings and assist in preparing materials for negotiations or informational sessions.
Collaborate with HR, legal counsel, and academic or departmental leaders to address operational and labor-related concerns.
Assist in training managers on labor contract provisions, policies, and best practices in employee relations.
Support the preparation of reports, analyses, and recommendations related to labor relations trends and issues.
Contribute to special projects, including contract renewals, labor negotiations support, and organizational policy updates.
Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned or required.