Description

HCLS is seeking a Employee & Labor Relations Manager. The role is primarily responsible for overseeing employee and labor relations including collective bargaining negotiation and administration. This individual will serve as the Library’s spokesperson in meetings with union representatives to review and respond to cases involving claims, grievances, and discipline appeals. The Employee & Labor Relations Manager reports to the Director of Human Resources.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Develop, maintain, and implement employee relations strategies with the Director of Human Resources
• Support the Director of Human Resources on interpreting and applying applicable labor and employment laws, regulations, and standards at the federal and state level, in consultation with legal counsel
• Conduct grievance hearings, respond to grievances, and negotiate grievance settlements
• Coordinate all aspects of labor contract negotiation and administration between union and management
• Participate in negotiation and writing of memoranda of agreement with union
• Collaborate with managers and supervisors in employee relations best practices and strategies for addressing problems and grievances through proper questioning and risk assessment and the application of HR knowledge, such as relevant policies, procedures, collective bargaining agreements and applicable law, to provide consultation that reduces risk and builds a positive work environment for all
• Cultivate a strong partnership with the union at all levels
• Prepare for and participate in arbitration hearings
• Work closely with Chief of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion for continual development and evaluation of anti-discrimination practice
• Work with the Staff Development Coordinator to develop and conduct training programs related to employee and labor relation policies, procedures, and the grievance process
• Responsible for all bargaining unit related reporting
• Responsible for ensuring compliance with any collective bargaining agreements in effect
• Keep abreast of professional development and seeks to continually improve knowledge and expertise
• Act as an ambassador and advocate for the library
• Attend meetings, training, and workshops as assigned
• Adhere to current library policies, procedures, and the union contract
• Assist with special projects as required
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

The employee is expected to perform or possess the following:

• Ability to gain thorough knowledge of HCLS’ systems, practices, policies, and procedures
• Ability to act as a representative of HCLS to the public
• Experience working with bargaining unit contracts, contract administration, interpretation, and negotiation
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local employment and benefit laws and regulations
• Knowledge of principles and practices of employee and labor relations, collective bargaining, and employment laws, and skill in their application
• Knowledge of Human Resources best practices and procedures
• Ability to analyze and evaluate relevant legal guidelines and correctly apply these principles to relevant facts of cases
• Ability to effectively establish trust and rapport and delivers challenging information effectively
• Ability to produce high volume and quality work within deadlines
• Ability to use a solutions-oriented approach
• Strong problem solving and conflict resolution skills
• Strong communication skills across a variety of mediums
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion at all times
• Exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills
• Experience with maintaining and manipulating data
• Strong analytical skills
• Strong organization and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and with other staff
• Ability to operate relevant computer systems including hardware and software, such as
• Microsoft Office, Google apps, electronic databases, e-mail, and internet navigation in addition to other office equipment and security systems
• Hold a valid driver’s license.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources or related field; advanced degree (i.e., Master’s Degree in HR, Industrial Relations, Legal, Business, Communications, or JD) preferred
• Three to five years of relevant experience in labor relations field, such as contract administration, grievance handling, and problem resolution.
• Experience with strategic, labor relationships in public library, public-sector, and/or a union environment is preferred
• Professional certifications in employee and labor relations, human resources, employment law, etc., preferred.

Working Conditions

• Work may travel (usually within the county) up to 40% of the time
• Occasional light lifting may be required
• Work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions.

Additional Information

• Position located at the Administrative Branch
• Grade 14: Salary range: $69,335 - $121,580 annually
• Works under the supervision of the Director of Human Resources
• Full-time; 37.5 hours per week; Monday – Friday, typically day time hours; required to work evenings and weekends as needed to accommodate staff availability
• Position open until filled

EEO STATEMENT

Howard County’s diversity is its greatest asset. Howard County Library System embraces its multi-cultural and multi-ethnic character. All communities, including communities of color and immigrant communities, are fundamental to our spirit of service, workforce and long-term success. Equity and empowerment are top priorities. We believe all Howard County residents must have equitable opportunities to reach their full potential and share in the benefits of community progress. Among our goals is for our workforce to reflect the community it serves. We are actively working to eliminate racial and other disparities and welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and/or multicultural skill sets and experiences. Howard County Library System takes pride in providing equal employment opportunities.

The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job.