Labour and Employee Relations Specialist

York Region (The Regional Municipality of York); Newmarket; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Labour Relations Specialist to foster a positive work environment and address employee issues proactively. This role involves providing guidance on collective agreements and employment laws while maintaining effective communication with union representatives. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in labour relations, strong HR generalist skills, and a thorough understanding of Ontario employment law. Join a recognized employer of choice in Canada and contribute to building a caring and inclusive workplace culture.

Benefits

Defined Benefit Pension Program

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Employee and Family Assistance Program

Corporate Discounts

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Qualifications

• 5+ years of management experience in labour and employee relations.
• Strong HR skills with extensive experience in grievances and negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary contact for labour inquiries and provide advice.
• Lead investigations into employee relations issues and recommend actions.
• Ensure compliance with policies and manage documentation.

Skills

Labour Relations

Employee Relations

Grievances Handling

Mediations

Negotiations

Investigations

Ontario Employment Law

Education

Degree in Human Resources

Degree in Labour Relations

Equivalent combination of education and experience

Job description

ABOUT US

Almost 1.2 million residents call York Region home, making it one of the largest regions in Canada and the fastest-growing, with a population expected to exceed 2 million by 2041. Covering approximately 1,800 square kilometers across nine municipalities, our diverse geography is as vibrant as our community. We operate within a two-tier local government structure, collaborating with municipalities to provide comprehensive services and resources to residents and businesses.

WHAT WE OFFER

Recognized as one of Canada's Best Employers by Forbes, we foster a collaborative and progressive workplace that values our organizational culture and adheres to The 13+ Factors of Psychological Health and Safety. Our goal is to build strong, caring, and safe communities both within and outside our organization.

• Defined Benefit Pension Program - Participation in the OMERS pension plan ensures a lifelong income, with eligibility from the first day of full-time employment and employer-matched contributions.
• Employer of Choice - Ranked as the top government employer in Canada and fourth overall among 300 organizations.
• Benefits and Wellness - A comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, life insurance, 24/7 Employee and Family Assistance Program, and corporate discounts.
• Inclusive and Diverse Workforce - Committed to diversity, equity, and accessibility, with recognition from the United Nations for our leadership in these areas.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to the Lead, Employee and Labour Relations, this role involves addressing employee and labour issues proactively and fostering a positive work environment. The position provides coaching, guidance, and interpretation of collective agreements and employment laws to various departments.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Serve as the primary contact for labour/employee inquiries, providing advice on collective agreements and employee relations.
• Maintain effective communication and cooperative relationships with union representatives, facilitating positive labour relations.
• Offer guidance on employee and labour issues such as complaints, performance, discipline, and absences, collaborating with the Lead as needed.
• Lead investigations into employee relations issues, prepare reports, and recommend actions.
• Ensure compliance with policies and legislation, manage documentation, and support grievance and arbitration processes.
• Assist the Employee Health & Safety Unit with investigations and accommodation matters.
• Identify emerging trends and recommend solutions to leadership.
• Act as a change agent, promoting organizational development and cultural transformation.
• Engage with internal and external partners to share best practices in employee and labour relations.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• A degree in Human Resources, Labour Relations, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least 5 years of progressive management experience in labour and employee relations within complex unionized environments.
• Strong HR generalist skills with extensive experience in grievances, mediations, arbitrations, investigations, and negotiations.
• Thorough knowledge of Ontario employment and labour law, including relevant statutes and regulations.
• Ability to demonstrate the Region’s core competencies.