Labor Relations Specialist

Nature of Work

The purpose of this job is to investigate grievances and complaints and coordinate their resolution. Provides advice and clarification to city management regarding labor contracts, city policies, and rules and regulations. Attends and conducts hearings, negotiations and arbitration. Supervises the work of assigned personnel; participates in hiring, training and disciplinary actions; delegates work assignments

• Serves on the City's bargaining team in contract negotiations with unions representing city employees; analyzes and compiles data related to wages, hours of work, employee benefits and general conditions of employment; drafts proposed contract language and supplemental agreements; projects costs and implications of collective bargaining positions

• Investigates grievances and coordinates their resolution; schedules meetings with union and management representatives; writes responses outlining City's position; clarifies issues and prepares for arbitration

• Represents the City in arbitration hearings; reviews materials, conducts research, prepares witnesses and exhibits; presents City's case

• Provides advice and clarification to city management regarding labor contracts, city policies and rules and regulations

• Assists in the preparation and presentation of cases in labor related lawsuits against the City

• Represents the City in unit determination proceedings and in fair labor practice hearings before the Michigan Employment Relations Commission and in unemployment compensation hearings before the Michigan Employment Security Commission; investigates disciplinary complaints

• Organizes and conducts training seminars on labor relations

Minimum Training and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, or a related field
• -AND--
• At least three (3) to five (5) years of progressively responsible professional experience in labor relations and collective bargaining
• -OR--
• Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that provides the reuired skills, knowledge and abilities

Desired Qualifications

• Law Degree

Other Information

We Offer:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 1

• 6% employee 401a contribution with employer matching (6% or 7% based on bargaining unit)

• Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings Account

• Voluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan options

• Twelve Paid Holidays

• Paid Vacation and Sick Time

• Paid parking (if applicable)

• Employee Home Ownership Incentive

• Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities

• Paid Parental Leave

• Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling

• Comprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentive

• Employee Discounts and Perks

Should an applicant need any disability related accommodation or other consideration in the application or selection process, please notify the human resources department upon submittal of application

The City of Grand Rapids does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

SHOULD AN APPLICANT NEED ANY DISABILITY RELATED ACCOMMODATION OR OTHER CONSIDERATION IN THE APPLICATION OR SELECTION PROCESS, PLEASE NOTIFY THE HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT PRIOR TO THE TEST.