Job Description

ABOUT THE ROLE:

The Employee Relations Manager plays an important role in fostering a fair, compliant, and inclusive workplace at the City of Cambridge. The Employee Relations Manager is responsible for independently managing complex employee issues, conducting thorough investigations, and serving as a subject matter expert on employee relations and labor practices. We are looking for a seasoned, discreet, and analytical HR professional who is deeply familiar with employment and labor law; skilled at resolving workplace issues with empathy, objectivity, and sound judgment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various type of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

• Lead the end-to-end management of complex employee relations matters, including allegations of misconduct, harassment, discrimination, and other workplace conflicts.

• Conduct prompt, thorough, and impartial investigations: gather documentation, interview relevant parties, analyze facts, and determine findings.

• Prepare clear, detailed investigative reports and present findings and recommendations to the Director of Labor Relations, Chief People Officer, City Solicitor’s Office and other stakeholders as needed.

• Act as a subject matter expert on employee relations policies, disciplinary procedures, and workplace standards.

• Partner with the City Solicitor’s Office to ensure consistency, compliance, and legal soundness in recommendations and outcomes.

• Review trends in employee relations data and provide insights to guide proactive interventions and policy updates.

• Assist in the development, revision, and communication of HR policies to ensure alignment with current employment laws, best practices, and City values.

• Advise and coach managers on conflict resolution, performance management, and consistent application of HR policies.

• Maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism while handling sensitive information.

• Promote and uphold the City’s antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion (ADEI) values in all investigations and employee interactions.

• Other duties as assigned.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Public Administration, Labor Relations, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive HR management experience with a strong emphasis on employee relations and workplace investigations.

• Demonstrated experience conducting complex investigations and writing clear, objective reports.

• Strong working knowledge of relevant federal, state, and local employment and labor laws (e.g., FMLA, ADA, Title VII, FLSA, EEO, etc.).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Juris Doctor (JD) preferred.

• Public sector or unionized workforce experience.

• HR certification such as SHRM-SCP, SPHR, or similar.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, particularly in documentation and report writing.

• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities; able to assess complex situations and propose balanced, practical solutions.

• Advanced knowledge of employee relations and investigation protocols.

• High level of professionalism, discretion, and emotional intelligence.

• Strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills.

• Ability to manage multiple issues simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

• Capable of building trust with employees and leaders while maintaining objectivity.

• Commitment to principles of equity, inclusion, and fair treatment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work is conducted primarily in a professional office setting, with frequent use of standard office equipment including computers, telephones, and printers. The role involves frequent interactions with employees, managers, and stakeholders across various departments, which may require occasional visits to other City facilities.

This position may be eligible for hybrid work under the City’s Telework Policy depending on operational needs. Attendance at in-person meetings and on-site engagements may be required, particularly for sensitive matters such as employee relations issues or workplace investigations.

Some extended hours may occasionally be necessary to meet deadlines or respond to urgent matters.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk, hear, and use hands to operate a computer and other office equipment. The position requires the ability to occasionally stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms.

Specific vision abilities required include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. The employee may be required to carry files, documents, or equipment weighing up to 15 pounds.

The position may require occasional travel between work sites and attendance at off-site meetings or trainings.

OF BENEFITS:

• Health, dental and vision insurance

• Vacation, personal and sick days

• Paid parental leave

• Sick incentive pay eligibility

• Management stipend of $2,700 annually

• 14 paid holidays

• City employee commuter benefits (T-Pass reimbursement, Blue bikes membership, EZRide Shuttle membership)

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:

Please upload the below documents to complete your application:

• Resume

• Cover Letter