Industrial Relations Officer

Summary

Industrial relations officers manage employment conditions and related issues. Industrial relations officers aim to encourage employees and employers to work towards effective organisational practices. They may represent industrial, commercial, union, employer or other organisations in industrial negotiations.

Duties & Tasks

Industrial relations officers may perform the following tasks:

  • advise on the operation of industrial awards and agreements
  • undertake negotiations on rates of pay and conditions of employment for employees and employers through enterprise bargaining negotiations
  • represent employees or employers before industrial tribunals on matters such as enterprise bargaining agreements, disputes and termination of employment
  • develop and administer policies on different employee classifications, wage structures and related matters
  • establish and maintain good relationships between employers and employees
  • examine and attempt to resolve industrial disputes and grievances in the workplace (for example, by acting as the management representative in discussions with trade unions about the effects of technological change on the duties of employees in a manufacturing workshop)
  • study and interpret relevant industrial legislation (the laws formulated by parliament to control industrial practices in the workplace)
  • advise others on the proper procedures for carrying out negotiations and on the special regulations relating to employment and salary agreements
  • conduct research into particular industrial relations issues (such as the effects of changes in work practices on productivity)

Working Conditions

The work of industrial relations officers varies according to where they are employed. Those working for organisations with a large workforce aim to minimise industrial disputes by acting as a communication link between management and employees. Those working for employer associations or trade unions aim to protect the interests of the group they are representing.

Personal Requirements

  • good communication skills
  • good conflict-resolution and negotiation skills
  • willing to work within rules (legislative and legal).

Related Courses:

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