About Us

As part of the University Human Resources Department, Staff HR Services provides advice, guidance, and direction to management, staff, and unit-based partners to support an engaged and productive workforce. Listed below are some of the areas of service.

Labor Relations

Staff HR administers the following collective bargaining agreements and memorandum of understanding:

  • American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (A.F.S.C.M.E. Local 1583, Council #25, AFL-CIO)  
  • Police Officers Association of Michigan (P.O.A.M.)
  • University of Michigan Skilled Trades Board of Directors
  • International Union of Operating Engineers (I.U.O.E. Local 547)
  • International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (I.A.T.S.E.)

Under these collective bargaining agreements Staff HR is responsible for:

  • Contract negotiations
  • Contract administration, including interpretation of contracts
  • Grievances, discipline and discharge processes

Staff HR is prepared to respond to a broad range of questions, concerns and issues related to the provisions of these agreements and to employee activity in general.

Employee Relations

Staff members and supervisory personnel can contact Staff HR for the following services:

  • Dispute resolution
  • Performance management (including attendance)
  • Non-bargained-for grievances, discipline, or discharge processes
  • Negotiated termination agreements
  • Organizational redesign   

Policy Development and Administration

In order to maintain an effective and efficient workforce and meet the requirements of state and federal regulations, the University of Michigan has developed a host of operating policies and practices, many of which are reflected in the Standard Practice Guide (SPG). The SPG is available on-line at http://spg.umich.edu/. Specific questions related to the application of Human Resource policies should be directed to the Human Resource Representative for the involved department.

Training Programs

Staff HR Services participates in the design and presentation of a wide range of training related to University policy and effective human resource practice. These include catalogue courses as well as programs tailored to unit needs.

External Agency Complaints and Lawsuits

Employment has become a complex arena governed by numerous state and federal laws and regulations interacting with numerous administrative and enforcement agencies external to the University. Complaints or charges may be filed with external agencies (e.g. the Michigan Employment Security Agency, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Michigan Employment Relations Commission, Michigan Department of Civil Rights, Department of Labor, etc.) and lawsuits may be filed in any court.

The University's Office of the General Counsel is responsible for responding on behalf of the University to arbitrations, lawsuits and formal complaints to external agencies.  Staff HR Services works closely with O.G.C. and unit representatives to investigate and respond appropriately to complaints and charges. Questions or concerns about law or regulations related to employment or to complaints filed externally may be directed to the Human Resource Representatives.

Other Staff HR Services include:

  • Review and Approval of reduction-in- force requests
  • Consultation on compliance requirements
  • Coordination of the DPS Oversight Committee