Employee & Labor Relations Manager, Howard County Library System, Ellicott City, MD
Howard County Library System -
N/A
Ellicott City, MD,
US
N/A
Employee & Labor Relations Manager
Date Posted: 2024-06-01
Job 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.
EducationandExperience
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.
WorkingConditions
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.
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.