Expert Labour Relations - Arbitration

CN; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading transportation company in Canada is seeking an Expert in Labour Relations to prepare for arbitration and support corporate strategies. The role involves extensive collaboration across departments, research, and maintaining union relationships. Candidates should have over 5 years of HR experience, a relevant degree, and be fluently bilingual in English and French. This position offers a dynamic work environment with minimal travel requirements.

Qualifications

• Over 5–7 years of progressive experience in HR focused on labour relations.
• Experience preparing and presenting cases for arbitration.
• Proven ability to maintain constructive management–union relationships.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and participate in arbitration and mediation proceedings.
• Support corporate labour relations strategy and compliance.
• Conduct research on grievances and historical decisions.

Skills

Labour relations expertise

Negotiation skills

Fluency in English and French

Communication skills

Critical thinking

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Relations

Master’s Degree in HR or related field

Certified Human Resource Professional (CPHR)

Certified Industrial Relations Counsellor (CRIA)

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Job Summary

The Expert, Labour Relations - Arbitration is responsible for preparing and participating in arbitration, mediation, and other proceedings such as those before the CIRB and CHRC involving unionized employees in Canada. The role supports case development, coordinates the interpretation and application of collective agreements, and contributes to the effective representation of the organization during hearings. Additionally, the position supports the corporate labour relations strategy by providing guidance on collective agreements and ensuring compliance with applicable labour laws.

Main Responsibilities

Arbitration Case Preparation & Support

• Partner with Operations and Labour Relations teams to compile documentation and formulate arguments for arbitration cases.
• Present grievances during arbitration hearings and coordinate with legal counsel as required.
• Conduct in-depth research on historical arbitration decisions and legal precedents to strengthen case strategy.
• Collect, analyze, and summarize relevant case documents, evidence, and witness statements.
• Prepare comprehensive case files, organize exhibits, and manage post-hearing documentation.
• Collaborate with business units to develop and refine arguments defending the company’s position.
• Facilitate pre-arbitration meetings with union representatives to explore resolution opportunities.
• Support leaders in implementing arbitration outcomes and provide post-resolution guidance.
• Maintain accurate and compliant records of arbitration cases, ensuring legal and organizational standards are met.
• Promote cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing within Labour Relations teams.
• Track arbitration trends and outcomes to inform future case strategies and training needs.

Corporate Labour Relations Strategy & Execution

• Support strategic labour relations initiatives by contributing to corporate strategies, arbitration execution, and change management efforts.
• Collaborate across departments including HR, leadership, and Learning & Development to align labour relations with business goals and shape risk-reducing training programs.
• Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness to ensure labour relations initiatives are impactful and aligned with organizational needs.
• Contribute to policy development by integrating insights from arbitration outcomes and legal updates.
• Engage in benchmarking and best practice reviews to continuously improve labour relations capabilities.

Working Conditions

The role has standard working conditions in an office environment with a regular workweek from Monday to Friday. Due to the nature of the role, the incumbent must be able to meet tight deadlines, handle pressure and manage stress. The role requires minimal travel (~15%) to various CN properties or hearing locations.

Requirements

Experience

Labour Relations

• Over 5–7 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with a strong focus on labour relations and collective agreement administration.
• Demonstrated expertise in preparing and presenting cases for arbitration and mediation, including comprehensive grievance resolution, legal research, and meticulous case documentation.
• Proven ability to foster and maintain constructive management–union relationships, adeptly navigating complex union environments and dynamics.
• Hands‑on experience in collective bargaining and negotiations, serving effectively as either a spokesperson or strategic support.

Education / Certification / Designation

• Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Relations, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field
• Master’s Degree in Industrial Relations, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field
• Certified Human Resource Professional (CPHR)
• Certified Industrial Relations Counsellor (CRIA)
• Any designation for these above would be considered as an asset

Competencies

• Communicates with impact
• Sets direction and inspires others
• Collaborates with others and shares information
• Applies critical thinking
• Knows the business and stays current on industry needsDemonstrates agility and drives change
• Identifies potential safety and security risks
• Leads by example for the safety and security of all
• Identifies needs and finds solutions to create value for all stakeholders

Technical Skills / Knowledge

• Fluently bilingual both written and verbal (English, French)
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Solid understanding of Canadian and labour laws and regulations.
• Skilled in negotiation techniques and jurisprudence research to support informed decision‑making.
• Demonstrated experience in mediation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) strategies.
• Proven ability to analyze complex information, ask insightful questions, and develop strategic recommendations with a long‑term perspective.