Labor Relations Specialist

Swissport; Montreal (administrative region); On-site; CAD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Swissport Canada is seeking a Labour and Employee Relations Specialist to partner with leaders across the organization, providing expert guidance on union and workplace relations, policy compliance, and workforce planning.

Reporting to the VP of Human Resources, you will drive fair, consistent practices, support disciplinary matters, oversee grievance processes, and help shape a positive, compliant employee experience across Canada.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, industrial relations, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of HR experience with a focus on labour relations in a unionized environment.
• CHRP designation strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of Canadian labour laws including Canada Labour Code is an asset.
• Experience in aviation or airport operations is an asset.
• Excellent communication skills in English and French.

Responsibilities

• Interpret and apply collective agreements and company policies.
• Guide on disciplinary matters and employee relations issues.
• Address union concerns, investigate complaints, and manage cases under the National Harassment and Violence Policy.
• Prepare for and participate in labour-management committees.
• Oversee grievance management and coordinate with union representatives toward resolution.
• Train managers on collective agreements, HR policies, and procedures.

Skills

Labour relations

Disciplinary guidance

Employee engagement

Policy training

Bilingual English/French

Education

Bachelor’s degree in human resources management or Industrial Relations

Job description

The Labour and Employee Relations Specialist plays a key role in partnering with leaders across Swissport Canada to provide expert guidance and strategic support on labour and employee relations matters. Acting as a trusted subject matter expert, this role ensures fair, consistent, and effective practices while promoting positive employee relations and compliance with collective agreements, employment legislation, company policies, and organizational standards.

Reporting to the Vice President, Human Resources, the Labour and Employee Relations Specialist will influence workplace culture, support operational leaders, and help build a strong, engaged workforce across Swissport Canada.

Job Responsibilities

Labour relations / Employee Relations

• Interpret and apply collective agreements (14) and company policies, including attendance, conduct, harassment, workplace violence, and drug & alcohol policies.
• Guide on disciplinary matters and employee relations issues.
• Address union concerns, investigate complaints, and manage cases under the National Harassment and Violence Policy.
• Prepare for and participate in labour-management committees.
• Manage grievances and collaborate with union representatives toward resolution.
• Prepare arbitration cases and coordinate with legal counsel as required.
• Train managers on collective agreements, HR policies, and procedures.
• Support CBA negotiations through proposal preparation and participation.
• Oversee complaint tracking, follow-ups, and resolution across Canadian stations.
• Update, develop, and implement HR policies and procedures as required.
• Drive employee engagement initiatives that enhance employee experience and satisfaction.
• Ensure Federal compliance reporting and governance requirements, including Pay Equity, Accessibility, Diversity, and Inclusion.
• Monitor employee relations trends and recommend improvements based on organizational and industry developments.

Disability management

• Lead and coordinate return-to-work programs, including temporary and permanent accommodations arising from occupational and non-occupational disabilities.
• Manage the full lifecycle of workplace accommodation cases, ensuring timely, fair, and compliant resolution.
• Partner closely with third-party disability management providers to coordinate claims, accommodations, and return-to-work plans.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal and provincial legislation, including the Canada Labour Code, Canadian Human Rights Act (and applicable provincial Human Rights Codes), Occupational Health and Safety legislation, and other regulatory requirements.
• Represent the organization in matters involving government agencies and regulatory bodies, including Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), provincial Workers' Compensation Boards (e.g., WSIB, WorkSafeBC, CNESST), Human Rights Commissions and Tribunals, and Transport Canada.

Qualifications and Competencies

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources management, Industrial Relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive HR experience with a strong focus on labour relations in a unionized environment.
• CHRP designation strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of Canadian labour and employment legislation; knowledge of the Canada Labour Code is an asset.
• Experience in the aviation, airport services, or other fast-paced operational industries is considered an asset.
• Proven ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-changing environment while managing multiple priorities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both English and French, with the ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated experience partnering with managers to implement performance management processes, employee relations strategies, and organizational initiatives.