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Employee & Labor Relations

The Employee and Labor Relations function of the Human Resources Department is commonly associated with matters such as investigations, counseling and disciplinary actions, but that certainly is not its primary mission. This critical HR component operates as a nexus between staff and management, bridging gaps that oftentimes seem insurmountable to either party. Through various forms of intervention, including problem-solving, mediation, training and counseling, Labor Relations offers balanced advocacy to management and individual employees to protect their respective rights and facilitate a more harmonious work environment.

The Labor Relations Office provides assistance and advice to UCM managers and supervisors in the following areas:

  • Performance Management
  • Layoff Planning
  • Discipline & Dismissal
  • Contract interpretation and administration (Union contracts and relevant personnel policies)
  • Complaint/Grievance processing (represented and non-represented staff)
  • Represents management in employee disputes/grievance proceedings
  • Mediates/negotiates resolution of complaints with employee representatives
  • Responds to union information requests

Important Links

General email: laborrelations@ucmerced.edu

Employee and Labor Relations Staff

Paul Garza

Employee & Labor Relations Manager
+1 (209) 259-8161

Margaret Franklin

Employee & Labor Relations Consultant
+1 (209) 285-8737

Luis Figueroa

Employee Relations Specialist
+1 (209) 819-6099