PA Bureau of Employee Relations – Harrisburg, PA

Pennsylvania Bureau of Employee Relations

The Bureau of Employee Relations (BER) is a specialized division within the Office of Administration of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Headquartered in the Finance Building at 404 Finance Building in the Capitol Complex of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, this bureau serves as the primary interface for labor-management interactions within the state government. The BER is responsible for developing, implementing, and administering the Commonwealth’s labor relations strategies, policies, and programs. Its mandate covers the negotiation and administration of collective bargaining agreements (union contracts) for the state’s unionized workforce. This office is critical in maintaining a stable and productive work environment for thousands of state employees by managing grievances, arbitration hearings, and meet-and-discuss sessions with employee organizations.

Strategic Functions and Services

• Collective Bargaining: The Bureau acts as the Governor’s representative in negotiations with major state employee unions, such as AFSCME and SEIU, determining wages, hours, and working conditions.
• Grievance Management: Overseeing the resolution of workplace disputes and contract interpretations to preventing litigation and work stoppages.
• Policy Advisory: Providing guidance to other state agencies and department heads on labor law compliance, employee discipline, and contract administration.
• Training and Development: Educating state supervisors and managers on best practices for employee relations and the nuances of union contracts.

Location and Security

Located in the historic Finance Building, the Bureau operates within the secure perimeter of the State Capitol Complex. The building is known for its stunning friezes and Art Deco design. Access to the Bureau’s offices is restricted to authorized personnel and scheduled visitors. All entrants to the Finance Building must undergo security screening, including magnetometer checks and x-ray inspection of bags. Valid photo identification is required. Public visitors generally do not have walk-in access to this administrative bureau; meetings regarding labor disputes or contract negotiations are typically scheduled in advance.