Labor Relations Specialist 1 - Administration

The final salary will depend on the candidate's qualifications. Those with 8 years or more of required experience can expect offers up to the midpoint of the salary range. Metra provides full pay ranges so candidates can consider their growth potential.

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Qualified veterans who meet the minimum requirements will receive outreach during the recruitment process in accordance with Federal and State laws, including the Illinois Veterans Preference Act. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview or job offer. The most qualified candidate will be selected.

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 Labor Relations Specialist 1 is an entry level position that will assist with labor relations proceedings and provide support for the assigned area in advocacy or administration; may be assigned core duties involving grievance procedures, mediation sessions, gathering, collecting, and maintaining documents and records required for contract negotiations, dispute resolution, policy development, and claim investigations.

The primary duties include: Provide support to assigned area that may include labor negotiation proceedings; conduct research; compile benchmark information; and review data related to on-property or industry-specific concerns. Follow labor relations procedures ensuring compliance with applicable laws; and update documents with legislative changes appropriately. Collaborate with staff on the development of tactics and strategies that align with department and agency goals.

For Administration
May participate in disciplinary investigations; consult with supervisors and managers regarding contract application and interpretation; and respond to employee questions.
Assist in the collection of Discipline Policy data; the management of the discipline database; and the collection and analysis of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) data.
Complete administrative tasks to support the full cycle of the discipline process, including research prior to issuing Notice of Investigations, preparation of scheduling, and assisting in conducting disciplinary investigations.

For Advocacy
Assist with the preparation of responses to questions on contract provisions; documents and cases scheduled for arbitration; drafts to arbitration briefs; grievance appeals from labor organizations; and dispute resolutions.
Maintain records and documentation related to grievances, decisions, discipline, and terminations.

Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

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

1. Bachelor's degree OR in lieu of specified degree any combination of education and experience that equals four years in labor relations.
2. Knowledge of principles and practices of labor relations, labor management theories, and research.
3. Familiar with principles and practices of labor negotiation and arbitration.
4. Familiar with contract drafting and administration.
5. Familiar with grievance and claims handling.
6. Proficient in Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, and Outlook)
7. Familiar with on-line legal research sites or resources.
8. Good written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
9. Good organizational, research, and analytical skills.
10. Ability to research, interpret, and apply laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and labor/management agreements.
11. Ability to work independently or in a team environment and manage multiple projects in a demanding environment.
12. Ability to work with sensitive information while maintaining strict confidentiality.
13. Ability to analyze issues and exercise judgment in making decisions.
14. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
15. Must be able to operate a vehicle.
16. Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.

Preferred

1. Microsoft 365 database skills are desirable.

Metra employees in an active review period under the current discipline policy or who have documented attendance or performance issues will not be considered and/or selected for this position.

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 preemployment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is committed to ensuring that our career website and recruiting process are accessible to all individuals. If you encounter difficulties or limitations in using or accessing our online application, or if you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, participate in interviews, complete any pre-employment testing, or engage in any other aspect of the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to RAC@Metrarr.com.

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.