Salary : $114,398.86 - $145,802.69 Annually
Location : City Hall 300 Monroe Ave NW Grand Rapids, MI
Job Type: Permanent
Job Number:Department: Human Resources
Opening Date: 11/09/2026
Closing Date: 12/9/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Nature of WorkAre you an experienced HR professional with expertise in labor relations, collective bargaining, and employee relations? Join the City of Grand Rapids and help shape workplace policies, strengthen labor-management partnerships, and support a productive and equitable workforce.
WHAT YOU'LL DO- Lead collective bargaining negotiations and serve as the City's chief negotiator.
- Interpret and administer labor contracts and resolve grievances.
- Advise City leadership on employee relations, investigations, and disciplinary matters.
- Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws, regulations, and City policies.
- Supervise HR professionals and develop effective labor relations strategies.
WHAT YOU BRING- Bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, or a related field.
- Five years of progressively responsible professional and supervisory experience in employee and labor relations, including collective bargaining, serving as a management spokesperson, and conducting internal investigations.
- Strong negotiation, leadership, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
A master's degree, Juris Doctor (J.D.), or professional HR certification is preferred.
Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.
Other InformationBeneifts We offer:- Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 1
- 6% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)
- Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings Account
- Voluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan options
- Twelve Paid Holidays
- Paid Vacation and Sick Time
- Paid parking (if applicable)
- Employee Home Ownership Incentive
- Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities
- Paid Parental Leave
- Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling
- Comprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentive
- Employee Discounts and Perks
It's important to keep a close eye on your email, as we will communicate with you via email throughout the recruitment process.
You can check your application status anytime by logging into your account at If you have questions regarding your application, you can email or call the Human Resources main phone line at (616) 456.3176.Do you hold a bachelors degree in business administration, public administration or a related field?
If your degree is in a related field please list the field.
Do you have at least five (5) years of progressively responsible professional and supervisory experience in employee and labor relations, including collective bargaining and internal investigations experience?
If you have experience conducting internal investigations please describe your experience and the length of time you have been performing this work. If no experience, enter NA.
Have you lead collective bargaining negotiations in a chief negotiator capacity?
Do you hold any of the following? Select all that are applicable.
- Juris Doctor (JD)
- Master Degree
- Human Resources Certification(s)
Do you have prior human resources experience working within a local, state, or federal government agency?
Required Question
