Expert Labour Relations - Arbitration

CN; Toronto; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A major railroad company in Canada is looking for an Expert in Labour Relations - Arbitration. This role involves preparing for arbitration hearings and ensuring compliance with collective agreements. The ideal candidate will have 5–7 years of HR experience, a strong focus on labour relations, and be fluent in both English and French. The position requires strong negotiation skills and the ability to thrive in a collaborative environment. Join a safety-focused culture and contribute to impactful labour relations strategies.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of progressive HR experience focused on labour relations.
• Expertise in arbitration and mediation processes.
• Hands-on experience in collective bargaining.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and participate in arbitration hearings.
• Conduct research on legal precedents.
• Collaborate with business units to defend case strategies.

Skills

Fluently bilingual (English, French)

Negotiation techniques

Critical thinking

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Relations

Master’s Degree in a related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

At CN, everyday brings new and exciting challenges. You can expect an interesting environment where you’re part of making sure our business is running optimally and safely–helping keep the economy on track. We provide the kind of paid training and opportunities that long‑term careers are built on and we recognize hard workers who strive to make a difference. You will be able to thrive in our close-knit, safety-focused culture working together as ONE TEAM. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us!

Job Summary

The Expert, Labour Relations - Arbitration isresponsiblefor preparing and participatingin 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
• Keeps the business and stays current on industry needs
• Demonstrates 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 U.S. 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.

About CN

CN is a premium railroad that sustainably generates value for our customers, shareholders, employees, and stakeholders with an unwavering commitment to safety and service. Essential to the economy, to the customers, and to the communities it serves, CN safely transports more than 300 million tons of natural resources, manufactured products, and finished goods throughout North America every year. CN's network connects Canada's Eastern and Western coasts with the U.S. South through a 20,000‑mile rail network. CN and its affiliates have been contributing to community prosperity and sustainable trade since 1919. CN powers the North American economy and is committed to programs supporting social responsibility and environmental stewardship.

At CN, we are dedicated to building North America's safest (https://www.cn.ca/en/safety/), most inclusive (https://www.cn.ca/en/careers/inclusion) and sustainable (https://www.cn.ca/en/delivering-responsibly/environment/) railroad, which includes reflecting the communities in which we operate. Research shows that candidates often don't apply unless they feel they fit the job posting at 100%. To all potential applicants, even if you don't meet every job requirement listed in a posting, we still encourage you to apply. If you require an accommodation for the recruitment process (including alternate formats of materials, accessible meeting rooms or other accommodations), please get in touch with our team at [e-mail].

As an equal opportunity employer, qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

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