Director of Employee Relations

Director of Employee Relations Human Resources Office SUNY Cortland Position Summary The Director of Employee Relations is responsible for responding to employee-related and contractual matters. This position plays a key role in managing internal employee and labor relations complaints, investigations, union grievances, disciplinary matters and ensuring compliance with the collective bargaining agreements. The Director provides proactive advice and recommendations for appropriate courses of action involving all university employees and facilitates the resolutions of employee matters. Works closely with and provides guidance to the Employee Relations Specialist. Salary Range: $105,000 + depending on experience (DOE) SUNY Employee and Labor Relations Serve as the Presidents designee for employee and labor relations on campus. Participate in investigations, interrogations, counseling, fact-finding, grievance meetings with union officials and employees. Make determinations of facts and contractual/policy obligations. Maintain accurate, thorough and confidential records of employee and labor relations matters, including investigations, grievances, consultations, disciplinary actions and related case activity in accordance with applicable laws, policies and record retention requirements. Responsible for contract administration with CSEA, GSEU, NYSCOPBA, PBANYS, PEF, and UUP bargaining units. Participate as management representative in all Step 2, Step 3 and arbitration hearings. Communicate with System Administration regarding interpretation, clarification, and deficiencies in contract language. Consult with supervisors and university leaders regarding employee performance concerns and ensure applicable policies, procedures and collective bargaining agreement provisions are appropriately applied. ADA Compliance Supervise the ADA Coordinator and provide oversight of the ADA accommodation process. Supervision Articulate a vision that unites team members/staff and define departmental objectives and goals to establish a common purpose. Assign duties to staff based on their roles and adjust assignments as needed. Plan, organize and monitor the progress of work and goal completion. Hire, onboard, and train staff. Provide clear instructions, regular feedback, and coaching. Communicate performance expectations and goals, complete performance programs and evaluations in a timely manner. Nurture the development of staff by identifying opportunities for training and career development. Confirm staff complete required training to maintain compliance with university policies and state and federal laws. Act as a liaison between staff and senior management, relaying information in both directions. Facilitate open communication and collaboration within the office. Address and help resolve staff issues and workplace concerns. Required Qualifications: Bachelors degree; Several years of experience in employee relations, labor relations or related unit in a unionized environment; Experience conducting employee relations investigations, conflict resolution, and/or disciplinary processes; Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply collective bargaining agreements, policies, and procedures; Thorough knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations Preferred Qualifications: Bachelors or Masters degree in human resources, labor studies, psychology/organizational development or related field; Professional certification in human resources, such as PHR, SHRM-CP, HRIC, or similar. Apply Today! For more information, application instructions, and to apply online, go to: https://jobs.cortland.edu/postings/11781 and be prepared to attach a cover letter and resume. Review of applications will begin November 5, 2026, and application materials will be accepted until the position is filled.