Employment relations adviser

Employment relations advisers give advice about issues between employers and employees. They may negotiate contract agreements, attend grievance hearings and handle employee complaints.

Also known as

Human resources adviser, workplace relations adviser, employment relations adviser, employee relations adviser, labour relations adviser, union official, industrial relations adviser

Work environment

  • Usually work regular business hours but may work extra hours
  • Work in offices and may travel locally and nationally
  • Need to be organised, solve problems and communicate well

Salary information

MOST COMMON
UPPER
LOWER
$54K-$140K 54000

Typical tasks

  • Give advice about workplace issues and disputes
  • Help solve problems between workers and bosses
  • Negotiate and write work agreements
  • Arrange and lead workplace meetings
  • Check businesses follow employment laws
  • Collect and review evidence for disputes
  • Train workers on workplace rights and rules
  • Advise managers on work laws and policies
  • Assess risks that could affect workplaces
  • Attend and speak at legal meetings

Outlook

Employment relations advisers help organisations navigate changing workplace laws and employment practices. In New Zealand, developments in employment legislation, workplace wellbeing, flexible work arrangements and workforce diversity are shaping the field. Internationally, employers are adapting to remote work, artificial intelligence and evolving employee expectations, creating ongoing demand for sound employment relations advice and support.

What employers and industry want in graduates

  • Strong communication and listening skills
  • Ability to interpret policies and legislation
  • Problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills
  • Professional judgement and integrity
  • Relationship-building and negotiation skills
  • Attention to detail and organisation

AUT programmes

The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.

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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.