Assistant Director of Employee Relations

City of Boston

2mo ago

Job
Full-time
Mid Level
Government & Politics
People, HR & Administration
Boston

AI generated summary

You must have 3+ years in employee relations, strong mediation skills, knowledge of labor laws, excellent communication, discretion, and problem-solving abilities. Boston residency required.
You will foster a positive work environment, mediate conflicts, manage performance issues, handle unemployment claims, support training initiatives, and maintain compliance with employment laws.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience in conducting mediation and/or other dispute resolution processes preferred.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with employees from a wide variety of backgrounds and identities, discerning systemic issues that surface during the investigative process.
Ability to effectively communicate and make recommendations regarding any systemic issues identified.
A high degree of empathy is balanced against an ability to provide direct feedback and confront witnesses with difficult information.
Excellent people management, conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to exercise objectivity, confidentiality, and discretion with highly sensitive information.
In-depth knowledge of employment and human resources laws, regulations, policies, and practices.
The ideal candidate will be proactive, possess exceptional listening skills, and demonstrate strong consultative abilities, with the capacity to objectively and confidentially assess sensitive, complex employee relations issues.
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources Management, or a similar field of study preferred (or equivalent experience) in Human Resources, Employee Relations, or related field plus three (3) years of employee relations experience.
Experience working in a large or mid-size organization. Experience in the public sector and/or unionized environments is preferred.
Three plus (3+) years in an employee relations context, including experience conducting impartial fact-finding investigations in the employment context, establishing familiarity with the requirements of labor law and employment law.
Thorough understanding of human resources and employee/labor relations principles, practices, and procedures.
Must possess excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills and ability to maintain composure in stressful situations.
Ability to exercise outstanding judgment and significant patience, understanding, and empathy, recommend solutions in a tactful and professional manner, and maintain the integrity of confidential information.
Excellent oral and written communication and organizational skills.
Strong interpersonal skills, plus a high level of professionalism and discretion.
Proficiency in Microsoft applications and Google Suite.
Positive, can-do attitude and flexibility.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Ability to work under deadlines.
BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Responsibilities

Promoting and encouraging a positive work environment while working respectfully and effectively within and for highly diverse workers at all levels of the organization.
Providing subject matter expertise and delivering innovative solutions to leadership on employee relations matters, corrective actions, and performance management to promote an equitable, inclusive, and respectful workplace.
Meets with employees and managers regarding workplace concerns; provides guidance and recommendations for resolution of issues.
Conducts interviews, gathers information and drafts correspondence for employee relations matters such as harassment allegations, work complaints, or other concerns involving potential violations of City policy or other workplace standards; takes further action when required.
Mediates conflict between employees; works to improve communication within and between departments; answers questions from department heads and supervisors concerning personnel policies and procedures.
Supports departments with performance management including but not limited to drafting and issuing performance reviews, coaching materials, corrective action documents, and performance development plans.
Conducts separation meetings and oversees compliance with the City’s separation procedures as needed.
Responsible for administering the unemployment compensation for the City of Boston governed by MG.L. 151A to ensure that eligible employees receive unemployment insurance benefits in a timely manner while ensuring the City is not liable for claims it is not responsible for.
Manages the unemployment insurance claims process, including charging departments for their monthly unemployment costs, auditing the monthly bill, working with the City’s outside vendor, and generating monthly and yearly claims and billing reports.
Represents the City of Boston at administrative unemployment compensation hearings and other administrative hearings as needed.
Educates departments on their role in the unemployment process and develops training resources related to this work as needed.
Works closely with OHR’s Training and Development team by developing and delivering educational programs to proactively address workplace issues and increase compliance with City of Boston policies.
Develops trust, rapport, and strong working relationships with the Offices of Human Resources and Labor Relations, the Law Department, and leads in other City departments.
Maintains knowledge and understanding of laws and regulations related to employment law, EEO, affirmative action, collective bargaining, labor relations, and human resources.
Supports departments with exit interviews, summarizes findings, and discusses trends and concerns with senior leadership.
Supports the Office of Human Resources in writing reports as needed.
Performs related work as required.

FAQs

What is the primary role of the Assistant Director of Employee Relations?

The primary role is to handle complex human resources-related issues, concerns, and complaints, providing guidance and support in resolving such matters, while promoting effective workplace relationships.

What qualifications are required for the Assistant Director of Employee Relations position?

A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources Management, or a similar field is preferred, along with three (3) years of employee relations experience. Experience in public sector or unionized environments is also favored.

What skills are essential for this position?

Essential skills include excellent people management, conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to communicate effectively, maintain confidentiality, and exercise discretion with sensitive information.

Is previous experience in mediation required?

While it is preferred, demonstrated experience in conducting mediation and/or other dispute resolution processes is highly valued but not strictly required.

What is the expected work environment for this position?

The Assistant Director of Employee Relations is expected to work in a collaborative environment, promoting a positive work atmosphere among highly diverse employees and departments.

Is there a residency requirement for this position?

Yes, Boston residency is required for the Assistant Director of Employee Relations position.

What does the role involve regarding unemployment compensation?

The role involves administering unemployment compensation processes, managing claims, representing the City at hearings, and providing education to departments about their roles in the unemployment process.

What type of organizational skills are necessary for this position?

Excellent oral and written communication skills, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work under deadlines are crucial for success in this role.

How many hours per week is the position?

The position requires 35 hours of work per week.

Are there opportunities for training and development in this role?

Yes, the Assistant Director works closely with the Training and Development team to develop and deliver educational programs aimed at addressing workplace issues and ensuring compliance with City policies.

City of Boston

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Mission & Purpose

Public service is a noble calling: to help others, to make our communities stronger, and to uphold the public trust. As city employees, we see the results of our hard work in our own community— in street and infrastructure improvements, new buildings rising from the ground, safer and more prosperous neighborhoods, and happier, healthier children, families, and senior citizens. We may all come from different backgrounds, but we are connected through our passion for service. What we do at work today, and everyday, shapes the Boston of tomorrow. Join us! The City of Boston is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. Therefore, qualified applicants will be considered regardless of their sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, military and veteran status, or other protected category.