Human Resource Services Client Partner (HR Business Partner equivalent)

The University of Montana invites applications for a Human Resource Services (HRS) Client Partner to join the People & Culture team. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the employee experience at Montana’s flagship public university.

This position performs general human resources functions for a host of clients and stakeholders throughout the University of Montana (UM) campus and is similar to a traditional HR Business Partner role.  As the Client Partner you are responsible for fostering and maintaining highly functional professional relationships, coaching for performance improvement, advising and negotiating in conflict-based situations, and assisting in organizational effectiveness efforts.  You will deliver solutions intended to address a variety of needs related to the human resources function of the institution in a number of key areas such as, employee and labor relations, performance management, and learning and development.  As a member of the HRS department within the People and Culture (P&C) sector of UM, you will partner with other members of the P&C team, and work collaboratively with all levels of personnel within the institution to implement policies, practices and procedures, and administer personnel actions and transactions as appropriate.

This position reports to and serves under the direct supervision of the Employee and Labor Relations Manager.

University of Montana People & Culture encompasses the people-centered functions of the University of Montana. More information about this sector can be found on our website.

*This position is not represented by a bargaining unit*

Employee and Labor Relations

• Provide consultation and guidance to managers and employees on employee and labor relations matters, including conflict resolution, performance management, and policy interpretation.
• Analyze workplace concerns and recommend solutions that support a respectful, productive, and legally compliant work environment.

• Partner with departments and People & Culture colleagues to address staffing, compensation, and workforce planning needs.
• Provide guidance to leaders on organizational changes, restructuring, and workplace practices that support effective teams.

• Ensure employment actions comply with federal, state, and university policies while maintaining discretion and confidentiality in sensitive situations.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of HR policies, procedures, and tools that support consistent and equitable practices.

• Partner with Organizational Learning and Development to support training initiatives for managers and employees.
• Deliver training and guidance on key HR topics such as employee relations, performance management, and workplace practices.

• Support initiatives that strengthen employee engagement, retention, and the overall employee experience.
• Participate in campus committees, strategic initiatives, and efforts that promote inclusive and equitable workplace practices.

We recognize that candidates may bring a range of experiences and backgrounds to this role. If your experience aligns with many of the qualifications listed below, we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every requirement.

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Development, or a related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Two (2) years of professional experience in human resources, employee relations, labor relations, or a closely related area
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee matters with discretion and professionalism.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including students, faculty, staff, and administrators. 
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and ability to stay current on relevant legal and policy updates.
• Working knowledge of human resources practices, particularly employee relations.
• Ability to interpret and apply collective bargaining agreements in a unionized environment.

• Strong interpersonal and presentation skills, including the ability to facilitate discussions with small and large groups.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Ability to use technology and systems (such as Microsoft Office and HRIS tools) to gather, analyze, and present information.
• Sound judgment and critical thinking skills to address complex workplace concerns.
• Ability to build and maintain productive working relationships with union representatives and campus partners.
• Experience coaching or advising managers and employees on workplace policies and practices.
• Experience working in a complex organization and adapting to changing priorities.
• Experience working in a service-oriented environment.
• Familiarity with learning and development and talent management practices.
• Commitment to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Preferred Qualifications

We encourage candidates with a combination of the following experience to apply:

• Experience in employee or labor relations within a human resources environment.
• Experience working in higher education or another complex, service-oriented organization.
• Experience working with labor unions or in unionized workplaces.
• Experience designing or delivering training, workshops, or professional development programs.

Position Number: 013110

Compensation Title: Personnel Officer

Bargaining Unit: *This position is not represented by a bargaining unit*

Work Schedule: Full-time, 1.0 FTE, Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Probationary Period: Six (6) months minimum 

Benefits Include: Insurance package, mandatory retirement plan, partial tuition waiver, and wellness program. 

Screening of applications will begin after April 1, 2026; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.

A complete application includes:

• Letter of Interest – addressing your qualifications and experience related to the stated required skills for the position. A general letter salutation such as “Dear Search Committee” or “Dear Hiring Manager” is acceptable.

• Detailed Resume – listing education and describing work experience

• Three (3) Professional References – names and contact information

At the University of Montana, we believe our people make our mission possible. Guided by the principle of “Mission First, People Always,” we seek candidates who are committed to fostering respectful workplaces, supporting employee success, and helping our campus community thrive. We welcome applicants who are motivated to partner with leaders and colleagues across the University to strengthen our workplace culture and contribute to UM’s priorities for student success, innovation, and community impact.

Must be eligible to work in the United States upon hire. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

The Affiliation of the University of Montana (UM Affiliation) is an equal opportunity employer.  UM Affiliation does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM’s non-discrimination policy and any applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the offer of employment. In accordance with university regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.

References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. UM partners with SkillSurvey for reference checking.  Applicants may receive emails from SkillSurvey to submit reference information. 

Testing: Individual hiring departments within the UM Affiliation may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.

Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM and all affiliated campuses, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9). The University of Montana will require proof of authorization to work in the United States before final hiring. Due to the September 19, 2025 Presidential Proclamation and related guidance from USCIS and the Department of State, the University may be limited in its ability to offer H-1B sponsorship. At this time, we are unable to sponsor new H-1B visas that require payment of the additional fee introduced by the Proclamation.

Address  32 Campus Drive, Missoula, Montana, 59812

Posted 3/25/2026