Description
About the Role
The Labor Relations Department is looking for a Principal Labor Relations Specialist to join their team. In this role, reporting directly to the Assistant Director of Labor Relations, the selected candidate will have the opportunity to work on a variety of labor relations functions in support of the agency's represented workforce.
This role is of a hybrid nature, where the individual will handle his or her own docket of matters, including discipline, grievances, and improper practice charges, as well as providing support to the department related to negotiations, both impact and collective bargaining. Key to success in this role will be the ability to develop and maintain strong working relationships with internal stakeholders across the agency and with union leadership.
Note - Candidates who have relatives who are Port Authority or PATH employees represented for collective bargaining cannot be considered for this position.
Responsibilities
Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Contract Interpretation, Research, and Negotiations
Support the negotiation team and perform bargaining-related functions as assigned
Conduct research and analysis on emerging labor issues and agency precedent, policies, and procedures using various sources - synthesis into memoranda for use by leadership and staff
Assist in the negotiations and drafting of successor collective bargaining agreements
Draft polished memoranda, side letter agreements, and position statements on discrete and complex labor issues
Provide the Port Authority's functions and staff with proper interpretation and administration of collective bargaining agreements and labor-related issues regarding contract language, work rules, past practices, unit work, law and policies; develop contract language for agreements
Serve as a point of contact, coordinator, and representative of the department in special assignments requiring LRD participation
Develop, update, and maintain a database/repository of agency's prior labor decisions for use by department as well as development of other resources and tools to improve accessibility to precedent
Dispute Resolution and Disciplinary Matters
Under direct supervision of the Senior Labor Relations Executive (grievances and improper practices) or Labor Relations Executive (discipline): Maintain a docket of grievances, improper practices, and disciplinary cases in adherence with all contractual timeframes. Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Investigation
Analysis, identification of issues
Contractual, policy, rule, and case research
Site visits and collaboration with stakeholders
Coordinate and lead prior to attorney assignment
Recommendations for disposition and conclusions on liability/exposure
Drafting of memoranda, responses, and charges
Service of documents
Union engagement and negotiation of settlement terms
Drafting of settlement documents
Attendance and participation at hearings and conferences, including putting on the agency's case in certain disciplinary matters
Implementation of disposition terms
Record keeping and tracking of matters
Assist with inquiries regarding contractual provisions, procedures, and matters
Conduct ad hoc research projects as directed
Compile data to identify trends and areas for improvement and action
Track and analyze key performance indicators for reporting to leadership
General
Prepare and conduct training sessions to Port Authority staff on various labor topics and/or emerging issues
Develop and prepare labor guidance and communications for use by stakeholders
Develop and maintain relationships with union representatives
Any other related work pertinent to the Labor Relations Department's dynamic and fast-paced function.
Minimum Qualifications
Juris Doctor or Master's Degree in Labor and Employment Relations or a related field
Minimum three years demonstrated, progressively responsible experience in labor relations, human resources, business administration, law, and/or investigations. This experience should include experience in legal research and drafting, the ability to understand/interpret union contracts, and knowledge of general collective bargaining terminology/practices.
Experience working in a confidential environment
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel and the ability to communicate and present both verbally and in writing in a clear and concise format
Desired Qualifications
Experience in collective bargaining and working in a unionized environment.
Knowledge of Port Authority policies, procedures, and operations
Demonstrated ability to conduct thorough and factual investigations andpresent findings in a clear, concise and persuasive format.
Excellent analytical and complex problem solving to make quality decisions.
Excellent written, oral communication and listening skills.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and prioritize projects in time-sensitive situations paying keen attention to detail.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with unionized and non-unionized staff at all levels and with external contacts.
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team oriented, collaborative environment
Demonstrated ability to prioritize and meet multiple deadlines
Selection Process
The application process varies by position, but typically includes an initial phone interview for qualified candidates, followed by a more in-depth interview(s) and/or assessment(s). Selected candidates who are made a conditional job offer will be asked to undergo a background check.
Compensation, Benefits & On-Site Collaboration Requirements:?
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.? Click here for more information about benefits, our culture, and career development opportunities.?
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The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey anticipates that the actual salary offered to a successful candidate will depend on aspects such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and internal factors. The expected compensation range for this role is:?
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Minimum: $100,256 Midpoint: $130,318 Maximum: $160,394?
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In accordance with Port Authority policy, this position permits employees to work remotely a maximum of one day per week. In person collaboration is essential to how the Port Authority conducts business, and regular in-office days or team collaboration days may be required on business needs.
REQNUMBER: 64644
