Grievance Proceedings
The objective of the grievance process is to provide a method to resolve problems which may affect regular staff, non-exempt employees. In doing this, you have two options to grieve: Informal or Formal Hearing Process. Each step is different and is explained to the participant by the Employee Relations Counselor upon initial engagement.
Any UTHSC staff can seek the advice of Employee Relations; however, our involvement does not replace or supersede other university grievances, complaint, or appeal procedures. As a result, employees seeking relief through the formal grievance process must initiate this process through the Human Resource Department. This provides a method for the resolution of problems which may arise between the University and regular, staff non-exempt employees.
Grievance Hearing Panel
The Human Resource Department recruits diverse groups of volunteers to serve on panels for the UTHSC Grievance Hearing Process. Panelists must be active regular full-time employees of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and should possess the following characteristics:
- Ability to be fair and objective in hearing others’ concerns
- Ability to exercise sound judgment
- Strong analytical and communication skills
- Good standing with the university (disciplinary action, parking services, etc…)
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and be discreet
- Willingness to help resolve employee workplace issues
- Willingness to learn new skills
For years, the Grievance Hearing Process has been providing non-exempt employees with a fair and equitable process to resolve employment concerns that have not been satisfactorily addressed through informal means. Panel members examine relevant information as the parties involved present their issues. This panel will make a recommendation for resolution that will be given to the Chancellor for the final decision.