Grievance and Dispute Resolution

Amended date: 12/01/2018
 

Although the University recognizes that there is a need for a mechanism that addresses unresolved disputes in the workplace, it strongly encourages the use of informal and assisted conflict resolution techniques to manage disagreements about disciplinary actions, policy interpretation differences and other conflicts that need assistance with resolution.  The policy below and resources listed at the bottom of the page support those efforts formally.

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The University has established a grievance policy to ensure fairness and consistency in employee relations and to resolve certain specified contested actions as quickly as possible. This is an internal process and while an employee may seek legal advice, their counsel may not actively participate in the process.
 
You are assured that your status as an employee of the University will not be jeopardized merely for seeking assistance with a problem. Only employees who have completed their probationary period are covered by this policy.
 
Issues considered appropriate for the grievance process include matters such as:

• Disciplinary actions against the aggrieved employee, such as written warnings or termination.
• A violation, misinterpretation, or inequitable application of policy or procedure affecting the employee.
• Discrimination against an employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, or covered veterans. Discrimination complaints will be investigated by the Office of Equal Opportunity.

 
The following issues are not subject to the grievance process:

• Performance Reviews
• Termination resulting from a reduction in force, or termination for reasons stemming from grants or contracts.
• The content of published University personnel policies and procedures.

 
Please contact your Human Resources Business Partner for any grievance related issues.
 

Definitions:  

Staff: any benefits-eligible employee who has standard hours of 17.5 hours/week or more and is not otherwise covered by a collective bargaining agreement.  Postdoctoral scholars’ hiring practices are outlined in the postdoc handbook.  Faculty should refer to the by-laws of their primary school affiliation for guidance.

Related Links and Resources:

Postdoctoral Scholars Handbook

HR Business Partners list

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This Grievance and Dispute Resolution Statement is part of the HR Employee Policies and Procedures that can be found here

Disclaimer: Changes to this policy and the handbook in which it is maintained may be made at any time, at the sole discretion of the University and is not a contract.  Employment by the University is at will and either the employee or the University may end the employment relationship at any time.