A labor relations manager and specialist not only provides services for handling employee benefits questions or recruiting, interviewing, and hiring new staff in accordance with policies established by top management, but today’s human resources workers also consult with top executives regarding strategic planning. The job has moved from staff work to leading the company in suggesting and changing policies.

In an effort to enhance productivity, reduce job turnover, and help companies increase performance, these workers also help their companies effectively use employee skills, provide training and development opportunities to improve those skills, and increase employees’ satisfaction with their jobs and working conditions. Dealing with people is an important part of the job.

Average Salary: $64,930 to $86,500

Average Hours (per week): 40

Union: No.

Certifications: College graduates and those who have earned certification will have the best job opportunities. There are also professional associations that specialize in human resources classes. A combination of courses in business administration, social and or behavioral sciences is recommended. Some labor relations jobs require graduate study in industrial or labor relations. A strong background in industrial relations and law is highly desirable for contract negotiators, arbitrators and mediators.

Training Period: Entry-level workers often enter on-the-job training programs in which they learn how to classify jobs, interview applicants, or administer employee benefits; they then are assigned to specific areas in the human resources department.

Strongest Market(s):

Human resources, training, and labor relations managers and specialists held about 904,900 jobs in 2008, and they are employed in virtually every industry. In addition there are12,900 managers and specialists who are self-employed.

Entry Level Salary: $49,350

Top Salary: $113,480 to $147,050

Job Growth Forecast: Employment is expected to grow faster than average for all human resources, training, and labor relations managers and specialists. Overall employment is projected to grow by 22 percent between 2008 and 2018, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Related posts:

1. Public Relations Manager
2. Public Relations Director
3. Public Relations Specialists
4. Advertising Manager
5. Culinary Jobs – Kitchen Manager