Management of employment relationships is the focus of industrial relations jobs. Industrial relations is a term that is commonly used to refer to unionized employment relationships, though it has been largely replaced by employment relations, human resources, or personnel. The various types of jobs in this field can be divided into a variety of categories, regardless of the name used. Industrial relations jobs may handle union employee relationships, which are often handled differently than non-union employee relationships. An industrial relations position may be office-based or require a significant amount of field work, depending on the industry. These jobs can also differ depending on the types of employees managed — professionals or trade workers — and the work focus — compensation, benefits, or recruitment.
Early industrial relations careers were centered on the implementation of unions, employee safety, and fair labor practices and policies in unionized settings. Other industrial jobs manage working relationships outside of an organized labor union, while modern industrial relations jobs focus on employment relationships between union workers and employers. The primary distinction between these two types is the mechanisms used to resolve conflicts and implement changes. Because union employees are usually protected by a detailed set of procedures spelled out in the labor contract, these jobs in a unionized setting necessitate a thorough understanding of labor union relationships in general, as well as the specific collective bargaining agreement in effect. Non-unionized industrial relations jobs may have a better chance of implementing new programs like performance management and recognition and retention.
Industrial relations positions are typically found in offices, though in some companies, these employees may work near or on the production floor. Close proximity to the workplace frequently aids the industrial relations coordinator in remaining engaged with the job, the employees, and the managers. Whether they work on the production floor or in an office, all successful industrial relationships managers have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Computer, organizational, and mathematical abilities are also necessary.
The types of employees involved in this field may also affect the jobs available. Aside from the union distinction, trade workers and licensed professionals may require different types of assistance. Licensed professionals, such as attorneys and physicians, may require assistance in staying current with license requirements. Salaried employees will also require different compensation and benefits assistance than hourly employees.
The focus of the work is another way to categorize industrial relations jobs. In some jobs, the coordinator may be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the employment relationship. Others may call for the industrial relations expert to concentrate solely on recruitment, compensation, or benefits.