The Division of Employee Relations is responsible for negotiating on behalf of Albany County with each of the fourteen collective bargaining units representing approximately 2,100 county employees. This includes conducting labor negotiations, as well as implementing and interpreting labor agreements throughout the county structure.

Functioning in close collaboration with the Department of Law, the Division provides consultation on policy matters, applicable regulations, and disciplinary issues. It also researches, evaluates, and responds to employee grievances, and is responsible for negotiating and administering all collective bargaining agreements.

The Division further represents the County in contract arbitration, proceedings before the Public Employees Relations Board (PERB), and civil service hearings.

Within Albany County government, seven distinct labor organizations represent a broad spectrum of the workforce. These unions, along with their members, are essential to maintaining a strong and effective county operation.

Additionally, this division also assists in interpreting and applying the Rules and Regulations for all non-union county employees.

Unions Representing Members of the County Workforce