What are the responsibilities and job description for the Employee and Labor Relations Representative position at King County Department of Adult & Juvenile Detention?
Are you someone who is motivated and passionate about public service and making a difference? The Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) Human Resources team seeks an Employee & Labor Relations Representative to serve as a trusted advisor within the department on employee and labor relations issues. These issues primarily include advising and collaborating on complex employee performance management concerns, union contract interpretation, workplace investigations, contract negotiations, disciplinary decisions, and employee workplace complaints. You will navigate challenging situations with labor unions, employees, and management with a focus on resolving issues while building relationships. As a trusted and influential resource with a high level of responsibility and autonomy, your work and perspective will be part of the future direction of the Department.
At DAJD, we provide in-custody and community-based services that are data informed, advance safety, lead system change, and promote equitable outcomes for the people we serve. This Employee & Labor Relations Representative position works in service to DAJD’s mission, by providing support to our employees and supervisors working across the Department.
Responsibilities
The work of this position is not transactional in nature; it requires strong critical thinking skills, including the ability to identify important considerations even when not explicitly presented. This position will require composure, and the ability to see the bigger picture while building consensus among groups that may have differing perspectives and goals. Successful candidates will be able to step up to address difficult issues, often saying what needs to be said to both labor and management to provide the best guidance on effective outcomes. They will collaborate across multiple Divisions and sometimes with different Departments, building partnerships and working effectively with others to meet shared objectives. It is essential that the incumbent manages conflict and develops and delivers concise communication that conveys a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences. Successful candidates will operate effectively in an ambiguous situation, making good and timely decisions that keep the organization moving forward.
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING:
Serve as the primary consultant to DAJD in the areas of labor negotiations and contract administration for multiple bargaining units, as well as the resolution of employee relations issues and grievances.
Work closely with the County’s designated labor negotiator throughout the bargaining process, serve as a central point of contact for DAJD and represent the Department’s interests.
Advise on employee investigations and appropriate discipline where needed.
Advise, guide, and serve as the department's process owner on union grievances.
Review investigative reports about employee conduct and consult with managers on the findings.
Interpret and provide guidance on matters involving collective bargaining agreements.
Coordinate the development of DAJD policies and strategies for all employment and labor-related activities, including potentially litigious and sensitive employment issues.
Qualifications
Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills
A minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in employee and labor relations, including conducting workplace investigations and preparing investigative reports, advising on performance management matters, and interpreting and applying federal, state, and local employment laws, as well as human resources policies and procedures.
Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and skills that enables successful performance of the job.
Advanced interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively at all levels in a collaborative team environment. Demonstrated ability to build trust across multiple constituencies.
A well-rounded understanding of labor rules, labor relations and collective bargaining principles and practices. Knowledge of grievance, arbitration, and mediation processes.
Strong presentation, facilitation, and consensus-building skills.
Strong negotiation, problem solving, and conflict resolution skills.
A proven ability to handle highly confidential, sensitive, and potentially litigious issues.
A thorough understanding of the principles of labor contract interpretation and administration.
Demonstrated analytical, planning, and problem-solving skills, along with the ability to think critically and strategically to advise on complex employment and labor matters.
Strong oral and written communication skills.
A strong and proven commitment to the principles of equity and social justice.
The ability to work daily in a fast-paced environment, with multiple competing priorities and sensitive situations.
Proficiency in commonly used MS Office applications.
Public sector experience or experience with large, unionized organizations
You will use your skills to apply a racial equity and social justice lens to the work to promote equitable outcomes in employee and labor relations issues.