HR Counsel - Labour Relations Specialist

Labour Relations Specialist; Fredericton; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of New Brunswick is seeking a Labour Relations Specialist to oversee labour relations expertise with a focus on collective agreements and employee relations. This full-time position offers hybrid work flexibility and is essential for advising on unionized academic appointments. Candidates must have a law degree and at least three years of related experience to effectively balance university operations and foster productive union relationships.

Benefits

Flexible hours

Work-from-home options

Comprehensive benefit package, including pension and insurance

Minimum of three weeks of vacation annually

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of related experience.
• Experience in labour relations or employment law is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Advise administration on collective agreements and policies.
• Foster relations with unions and negotiate effectively.
• Conduct research and provide legal advice on labour matters.

Skills

Employee Relations

Leadership Experience

Communication

Negotiation

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving

Education

Law degree (LLB / JD)

Job description

OFFICE OF THE VICE-PROVOST ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION

The Vice-Provost Academic Administration office oversees UNBs academic planning and support program quality assurance and accreditation instructor contracts and faculty labour relations.

WHAT WE OFFER

Full-time Continuing Bi-Campus Position Saint John or Fredericton Campus location Hybrid

UNB is committed to ensuring employees can maintain a healthy work-life balance. As such we are proud to support a hybrid work approach which includes flexible hours and work-from-home options.

Standard Work Hours : Mon - Fri 7 : 45 am - 4 : 00 pm 36.25 hours per week (Summer Hours)

Additional Working Conditions :

• Ability to travel routinely between both campuses (Fredericton / Saint John)

Salary : Commensurate with qualifications & experience

YOUR FOCUS

Under the general supervision of the Senior Labour Relations Counsel the Labour Relations Specialist will provide labour relations expertise for administrative leaders (Deans Directors and above) at the University particularly concerning the terms of employment and collective agreements that cover staff and academic appointments at the University with a primary focus of providing advice regarding unionized academic appointments.

• Advise University administration on the interpretation application and implementation of collective agreements and policies both through informal and formal processes including attendance at and advice regarding grievance and arbitration hearings.
• Foster positive and productive relations within the University and with its Unions by meeting with and negotiating with them.
• Research and provide legal advice on labour relations issues as they arise.
• Work to resolve labour relations disputes as they arise through informal and formal processes.
• Work closely and collaboratively with the Faculty Relations staff within the office of the Vice-Provost Academic Administration and staff from the People & Culture department on issues as they arise.
• Liaise with the office of the Universitys General Counsel to discuss issues and provide assistance where necessary on related issues.
• Represent the University at other related hearings (human rights labour relations board mediations and others as necessary).
• Liaise with external legal counsel when necessary.
• Perform activities related to the negotiation of collective agreements including preparatory information gathering developing collective bargaining proposals communications during bargaining participating in bargaining and post-bargaining implementation. Consult with University administration on bargaining matters.
• Participate in joint union-management committees and bargaining sessions as required.
• Conduct preparatory research benchmarking and costings.
• Develop revise and advise on policies and guidelines.
• Draft advice memorandums related to labour relations issues as required.
• Prepare develop and deliver resource materials and training sessions.
• Other assignments as required.

WHAT YOU BRING

• Law degree (LLB / JD) is required.
• Minimum 3 years of related experience.

Additional Strengths :

• Experience in labour relations or areas related to labour and employment law would be an asset.
• Planning analytical and creative problem-solving skills will be particularly important.
• Demonstrated excellent advocacy conflict resolution negotiation and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build partnerships to gain consensus and commitment.
• Excellent time management skills to work on multiple responsibilities with varying deadlines.
• Prior experience in the public post-secondary or university sector would be an asset.

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A little bit about us

University of New Brunswick

The University of New Brunswick employs more than 3200 full- and part-time staff including faculty support staff and students. UNB values people and we have proudly been named as one of Canadas Top 100 Employers for 2025 and one of Atlantic Canadas Top Employers for 2024.

UNB is situated on the unceded territory of the Wolastoqiyik and Mikmaq peoples along the banks of the beautiful and bountiful Wolastoq river a region recognized worldwide for its natural beauty. UNB is a comprehensive university with a long history of excellence in teaching and research.

Are you interested

Work With Us

WHY CHOOSE UNB

UNB offers a large variety of benefits for employees including a full pension a minimum of three weeks of vacation annually the Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) and dental life and health insurance.

ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL GROUP (APT)

This position is part of the non-union Administrative Professional and Technical (APT) group.

COMMITMENT TO EQUITY DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

The University of New Brunswick is committed to employment equity and fostering diversity within our community and developing an inclusive workplace that reflects the richness of the broader community that we serve. The University welcomes and encourages applications from all qualified individuals who will help us achieve our goals including women visible minorities Aboriginal persons persons with disabilities persons of any sexual orientation gender identity or gender expression. Preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada.

We thank all who apply; however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Required Experience :

Unclear Seniority

Key Skills

Employee Relations,Typing,Succession Planning,Human Resources Management,Military Experience,Case Management,Benefits Administration,HRIS,Payroll,ADP,Human Resources,Leadership Experience

Employment Type : Full-Time

Experience : years

Vacancy : 1

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Labour Specialist Hr • Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada