Senior Labor Relations Specialist-Administration

Job Description

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service.

Labor Relations is charged with the negotiation and administration of 17 collective bargaining agreements between Metra and its employees represented by 14 unions. These responsibilities include representing Metra in arbitration with respect to minor disputes and the ongoing negotiations meant to reach amicable settlements and thus avoid a major dispute as defined by the Railway Labor Act with each of these unions.

Reporting to the Director Labor Relations, the Sr Labor Relations Specialist will act as a subject matter expert (SME) of the assigned Labor Relations area, in advocacy or administration; provide leadership and guidance to junior level staff; and may be assigned core duties involving the most complex grievance procedures, mediation sessions, monitoring and implementing collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), dispute resolution, policy development, and claim investigations.
This position will require some specialized experience in advocacy or administration to be identified in the position posting and will demonstrate the ability to perform the duties of the assigned area.

The primary duties include: Act as a subject matter expert (SME) for assigned area that may include contract interpretations, labor negotiation proceedings; conduct research; and compile benchmark information. Collaborate with other Labor Relations staff on the development of strategies that align with department and agency goals; assist with the training and development of junior staff; and review their work products for consistency. Collaborate with other departments on the development and implementation of department and agency goals.
For Administration
Conduct disciplinary investigations and serve as hearing officer; prepare reports; make preliminary recommendations; prepare findings; consult with supervisors and managers regarding contract application and interpretation; and respond to employee questions. Provide support to managers on employee claims to ensure fair and impartial disciplinary investigations. Collect, review, analyze, and present policy and other data; manage the various databases; and assist with various projects.

Coordinate team’s day-to-day activities, assign tasks/projects and monitor performance, and provide guidance and training, but is not a supervisor. Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Final salary will be determined in part by the qualifications of the selected candidate.

Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree OR in lieu of a degree, any combination of education and experience that equals four years in Labor Relations.
• In addition to #1, must have five years of Labor Relations experience, that includes collective bargaining, contract administration, and/or administrative hearings.
• Good knowledge of principles and practices of labor negotiation and arbitration.
• Good knowledge and exposure to contract drafting and administration.
• Good knowledge of grievance and claims handling.
• Proficient in Microsoft 365 and computer based legal research.
• Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational, research, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a demanding environment.
• Ability to work with sensitive information while maintaining strict confidentiality.
• Ability to understand, interpret, and apply laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and labor/management agreements.
• Ability to independently analyze issues and exercise judgment in making decisions.
• Must be willing to travel within and outside of Metra's 6-county region.
• Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

Preferred:

• Proficient in Microsoft 365 database skills is desirable.

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees’ use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for pre-employment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.