Employee Relations Specialists on Upwork cost $25–$60/hr.

Learn about common cost factors to budget your hiring on the world's work marketplace.
Employee Relations Specialists average prices bell curve

$25 $60

Median hourly rates (USD)*

How Much Does an Employee Relations Specialist Cost?

An employee relations specialist is a key part of human resources, focused on managing relationships between employees and the organization. This role addresses workplace issues, resolves conflicts, and fosters a positive work environment. Employee relations specialists handle compliance with labor laws, oversee collective bargaining agreements, and guide employee grievances. 

Given their role in supporting a productive workforce, understanding the average salary and hiring costs for an employee relations specialist can help businesses budget effectively.

Salary range

The average employee relations specialist salary in the United States typically ranges from $68,000 to $111,000 per year, depending on their years of experience, location, and industry. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for an employee relations specialist is around $86,000 annually. 

Salaries can also vary significantly based on geography and job market demand. For example, professionals working in high-demand areas such as Los Angeles, New York, and Washington, D.C., tend to earn more due to the higher cost of living and the increased demand for skilled labor in these regions. 

Specialists in the 75th percentile can earn upwards of $90,000 annually, while those in the 90th percentile may earn over $100,000, especially in industries like health care or large corporate environments. On the other hand, states like Virginia, Maryland, and California offer competitive salaries due to the large HR presence in these areas.

In regions with a lower cost of living, such as Oklahoma or New Jersey, salaries may be closer to the national average or slightly below, particularly for entry-level positions. The job market for employee relations specialists in these areas is also influenced by the size of the local industries and the overall economic climate.

Hourly pay

If you're considering hiring an employee relations specialist on an hourly basis—whether as a consultant or a part-time employee—the pay range will vary depending on expertise, location, and the complexity of the projects. Here's a general overview of what you can expect for hourly wages:

  • Entry-level: $15-$25/hr
  • Intermediate: $25-$60/hr
  • Expert: $60-$95/hr

Hourly rates may also depend on the specialist's familiarity with specific areas of HR, such as labor relations, collective bargaining, and employee grievances. Specialists with more experience in project management or those who have worked with a variety of industries can charge higher rates. In major cities like Los Angeles or New York, hourly rates may be at the higher end of the spectrum due to increased demand and the cost of living in these areas.

How much is an employee relations specialist?

The cost of hiring an employee relations specialist can vary depending on whether you are hiring for a full-time position or need assistance on a part-time or project basis. Full-time employees typically receive an annual salary, while freelance or part-time workers may charge by the hour or per project. Many organizations find value in hiring freelance specialists through platforms like Upwork, which allows for flexibility in project length and scope.

Employee relations cost factors

Several factors influence the cost of hiring an employee relations specialist. These include:

  • Years of experience. More experienced specialists who have handled complex labor issues or employee grievances typically command higher salaries or hourly rates. Senior specialists often bring extensive knowledge of labor laws, conflict resolution, and collective bargaining.
  • Certifications and education. Specialists with a high level of education or a bachelor's degree in human resources or related fields, coupled with additional certifications in employee relations or labor law, can charge more due to their specialized knowledge. Some roles may require a deeper understanding of project management or HR technology, further increasing their rates.
  • Location. The geographic region where the specialist is based affects salary. Areas with a higher cost of living tend to have higher salary ranges compared to other regions.
  • Industry. Employee relations specialists working in highly regulated industries like health care or finance may charge more due to the complexity of the labor laws and regulations in those sectors. Specialists who are familiar with specific industry standards are often in higher demand.
  • Project complexity. More complex projects, such as managing large-scale employee grievances, overseeing union negotiations, or working in HR departments of companies with thousands of employees, often come with higher costs. Specialists who handle intricate labor relations cases or lead initiatives to resolve workplace disputes are more likely to charge premium rates.

Example employee relations specialist roles

The responsibilities of an employee relations specialist can vary depending on the size of the company, the industry, and the level of experience required. Below are five common variations of the employee relations specialist job title:

  • Junior employee relations specialist. This entry-level role focuses on supporting senior HR staff with basic employee relations tasks, such as documenting grievances, gathering feedback from employees, and assisting in employee relations training. Junior specialists typically focus on administrative tasks and learning the basics of labor laws.
  • Senior employee relations specialist. A senior employee relations specialist handles more complex issues such as workplace investigations, managing employee grievances, and facilitating negotiations between employees and management. They work closely with the HR leadership team to ensure compliance with labor laws and company policies.
  • Employee relations manager. In this role, the employee relations manager oversees the employee relations function within the organization. Responsibilities include managing a team of specialists, conducting high-level investigations, and developing strategies to improve employee satisfaction and reduce turnover.
  • Labor relations specialist. A specialist in collective bargaining and union-related issues, the labor relations specialist works primarily with organizations that have unionized workforces. They are responsible for negotiating contracts, handling union disputes, and ensuring compliance with collective bargaining agreements.
  • HR business partner. Although broader in scope, an HR business partner often works in tandem with employee relations specialists to align HR policies with business goals. They play a strategic role in managing employee relations issues while helping the organization meet its legal obligations and promoting a positive workplace environment.

FAQ

When considering hiring an employee relations specialist, it's natural to have questions about the costs and what the role entails. Here are five frequently asked questions about employee relations specialists to help guide your decision.

What is the average employee relations specialist salary?

The average base salary for an employee relations specialist in the United States typically ranges between $68,000 and $111,000 per year, depending on factors such as years of experience, location, and industry. In high-demand areas, salaries can exceed $90,000, particularly for senior specialists in the 75th percentile.

Do employee relations specialists need a degree?

Yes, most employee relations specialist jobs require a bachelor's degree in human resources, labor relations, or a related field. In some cases, additional certifications in labor law or HR management can enhance a candidate's qualifications and earning potential.

What industries hire employee relations specialists?

Employee relations specialists are hired across various industries, including health care, finance, manufacturing, and government. In particular, companies with large employee bases or unionized workforces rely on employee relations specialists to handle collective bargaining and manage workplace disputes.

How much do senior employee relations specialists make?

A senior employee relations specialist typically earns between $75,000 and $95,000 per year, depending on their years of experience and the complexity of the role. Specialists handling sensitive cases, overseeing large teams, or managing employee relations initiatives in high-demand industries often earn on the higher end of this spectrum.

How can I hire an employee relations specialist?

You can hire an employee relations specialist by posting job openings on platforms like Upwork, LinkedIn, or other job boards. Make sure to include the required qualifications, years of experience, and any industry-specific knowledge in your job posting. 

Upwork is an excellent platform for finding freelance or contract-based specialists who can provide flexible support for short-term projects or ongoing initiatives.

Hire employee relations specialists on Upwork

If you're looking to hire an employee relations specialist to manage workplace issues, ensure compliance, and improve employee satisfaction, Upwork is the perfect platform to find skilled professionals. Whether you need a full-time expert or someone for a specific project, Upwork gives you access to a global pool of talented HR specialists. 

Sign up today to browse available employee relations specialists or post a job to start your hiring process!

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