Find & Apply For Human Resources / Labor Relations Specialist Jobs in Wilmington, Delaware

LABOR & EMPLOYEE RELATIONS SPECIALIST

Type:

Open Competitive

Salary/Pay Rate:

Level 9 ($70,007- $105,012)

Posted Date:

09/01/2026

Deadline to

Apply:

09/14/2026

Announcement No.: 3340001

Department:

Human Resources Affiliation:

Non- Union

FLSA:

Exempt

DESCRIPTION

The City of Wilmington, a leading Delaware employer, upholds its commitment to quality public services and fiscal stability through the Human Resources Department. We manage recruitment, training, payroll, benefits, collective bargaining, and risk management. The Labor and Employee Relations Specialist will join our dynamic, fast-paced team.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Labor and Employee Relations Specialist manages labor relations, administers labor contracts, policies, and procedures, resolves grievances, and provides assistance with various Human Resources matters. This individual reports to the Director of Employee Services.

Additional responsibilities include:

Handles routine labor relations inquiries related to the administration and interpretation of collective bargaining agreements; refers complex matters to appropriate management staff. Advises and trains management in labor relations matters related to City policies, employee discipline, effective management practices, and industry trends. Serves as designated grievance hearing officer and issues written decisions based upon the facts presented at the hearing and a fair and reasonable interpretation and application of the applicable contract provision(s). Holds regular labor-management meetings with all bargaining units and acts as a liaison between management and unions to foster positive relationships and address grievances and unfair labor practices. Assists with mediations, arbitrations, and litigation alongside the Law Department. Create and maintain various databases to provide statistical insights into grievances, arbitrations, and bargaining history. Collaborates with management and outside counsel to develop data-driven negotiation strategies to support operational needs and goals. Coordinates with the Learning and Development Coordinator to deliver training to the workforce. Performs all related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Requires a bachelor's degree in human resource management, labor and industrial relations, or a related field. Four (4) years of experience in labor or employee relations or an equivalent combination of education and experience with a demonstrated ability to perform the job responsibilities.

Preferred:

HR/Labor relations certification (SHRM, HRCI, IPMA, CLRP, etc.)

Knowledge:

Thorough knowledge of labor/employee relations and contract negotiations. Proficiency in the application of federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws, rules, and regulations (FLSA, FMLA, ADA, EEO, etc.).

Skills:

Solid workplace investigation, mediation, and conflict resolution skills. Excellent communication skills (written and oral); strong critical thinking and project management skills.

Abilities:

Proficiency in Microsoft suite, strong attention to detail, excellent listener, collaboration and trust; maintains confidentiality and high ethical standards

Licenses:

Possess and maintain a valid driver's license with a good driving record.

CANDIDATE EVALUATION

Evaluation for this position includes a review of the applicant materials, certification of qualified applicants, a work sample, and a panel interview.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

All selected applicants must pass a criminal background investigation and a pre-employment physical. Work is normally performed in a quiet office, seated at a desk, utilizing a computer. Work requires the employee to frequently sit, talk, or hear. Occasionally required to walk, use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands or arms. May occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Vision requirements include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Location and Schedule:

Business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. in the City/County Building, 800 North French Street, Wilmington, DE 19801. During peak periods or times of increased workload, the position may require additional hours beyond the standard work week.

TOTAL COMPENSATION

Compensation encompasses both salary administration and a comprehensive benefit package: Salary Administration New employees are hired at the starting salary up to the median salary step four based on qualifications and internal equity within the classification. Merit increases are given after a satisfactory performance review.

Benefits A comprehensive benefits package is available from day one. Visit www.

WilmingtonDE.gov/Benefits for details.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

This position is open to all internal and external applicants who meet the minimum qualifications. To apply online visit www.

WilmingtonDE.gov. Computers are available for interested candidates in the Department of Human Resources, City County Building, 800 N French St, 4th Floor, Wilmington, DE 19801. Contact Human Resources at 302-576-2460 to schedule computer use.

Equal Opportunity Employer.

City code provides a preference for eligible current city employees, veterans, and current city residents.

The City of Wilmington is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act ADA and the Delaware Persons with Disabilities Employment Protections Act, reasonable accommodation will be provided when requested without causing undue hardship. If reasonable accommodation is needed please contact Human Resources at 302 576 2466.

BENEFITS