Labor Relations and Dispute Resolution Partner

Purpose/Description

The Labor Relations and Dispute Resolution Partner administers collective bargaining agreements to resolve disputes between workers and managers, negotiates collective bargaining agreements, and coordinates grievance procedures to handle employee complaints. The Labor Relations and Dispute Resolution Partner represents Wayne County’s position in contract negotiations and grievance arbitrations. The position is also responsible for drafting contract proposals and compiling information and statistics on the economic proposals of both labor and management. The Labor Relations and Dispute Resolution Partner participates in meetings between labor and management to discuss and attempt to resolve issues of mutual concern. Generally, the position serves as a resource for managers and County executives.

The duties and responsibilities of the Labor Relations and Dispute Resolution Partner are generally the same as the Labor Relations Analyst. However, the Labor Relations and Dispute Resolution Partner is expected to have more knowledge and experience in labor relations, be able to work more independently, and have a greater mastery of the field than the Labor Relations Analyst and provide training on employee development, corrective action, collective bargaining agreements, and other needed subject matters.

• Educational Requirements
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Labor Relations, Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, or closely related field or the equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis.
  • Juris Doctor degree or MBA highly desirable

• Experience Requirements

  • Public Sector labor relations experience, Human Resources certification, and/or legal training preferred.
  • 3 to 5 years of relevant experience

• Required Tasks

  • Advise managers on the proper application of collective bargaining agreements (“CBAs”) and various other labor relations matters
  • Serve on the management bargaining team for collective bargaining negotiations
  • Provide training on collective bargaining agreements, and other needed subject matters.
  • Investigate union complaints alleging improper conduct, and/or CBA violations.
  • Advise managers on proper utilization of the grievance process.
  • Serve as Step 4 grievance hearing officer and issue responses.
  • Advocate on behalf of County at grievance arbitrations and other labor hearings.
  • Draft briefs related to above mentioned administrative hearings.
  • Research various aspects of labor and employment law, as needed.
  • Assist in the development of strategies for collective bargaining negotiations, the preparation of County proposals, and the implementation of newly negotiated CBAs.
  • Participate in collective bargaining negotiation sessions as part of the management negotiation team.
  • Develop and deliver training to management regarding proper application of the CBA provisions, including newly negotiated provisions and a summary of changes.
  • Prepare and draft memoranda of understanding, settlement agreements, and other writings setting forth the terms of agreements made between the County and the various unions.
  • Perform any other related duties or responsibilities as assigned.