Attorney, Labor Relations (SY26-27)

Boston Public Schools; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Boston Public Schools is seeking a Labor Relations Manager responsible for overseeing all aspects of labor relations, including negotiation of collective bargaining agreements and advising school leaders on employment issues. Applicants should hold a Law Degree and be admitted to the Massachusetts Bar.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in labor relations, exceptional legal writing and presentation skills, and the ability to work independently while managing sensitive matters.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of employee and labor relations protocols, M.G.L. 150E, and employment laws.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive matters.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in employee and labor relations.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate and enforce collective bargaining agreements.
• Advise on labor and employment issues.
• Lead litigation related to labor grievances.

Skills

Excellent legal writing skills

Excellent oral and presentation skills

Strong computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Proficient project management skills

Education

Law Degree, Juris Doctor from an accredited law school

Admission to the Massachusetts Bar

Job description

Responsibilities

Responsible for all aspects of labor relations for the entire Boston Public Schools District, including, but not limited to:

• Negotiate, administer, interpret, and enforce 13+ collective bargaining agreements for approximately 9,600 employees; devise and implement strategies for effective negotiations.
• Advise principals, headmasters, executives, managers and supervisors regarding labor and employment issues.
• Lead litigation related to labor grievances at district-level disciplinary hearings, arbitrations regarding employee performance, discipline, and contract interpretation, and before the Massachusetts Division of Labor Relations, Civil Service Commission, and State Courts.
• Draft motions, collective bargaining agreements, legal memoranda, and post-arbitration briefs.
• Develop and maintain relationships with Union Leadership such as monthly labor-management meetings.
• Develop, train, and provide instruction necessary to support BPS labor relations objectives and ensure the fair, consistent, and efficient administration of its collective bargaining agreements.

Reports to

Director of Labor Relations

Qualifications - Required

• Law Degree, Juris Doctor from an accredited law school
• Admission to the Massachusetts Bar
• Extensive knowledge regarding employee and labor relations protocols, M.G.L. 150E, and state and federal employment laws
• Excellent legal writing skills
• Excellent oral and presentation skills
• Proficient project management skills in a multiple location/unit environment
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive matters
• Strong computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Current authorization to work in the United States – must have such authorization by the first day of employment

Qualifications - Preferred

• Minimum of 5 years of employee and labor relations experience, including conflict resolution, dispute resolution, collective bargaining, and litigation
• Experience with mediation and other dispute resolution systems and techniques
• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain collaborative working relationships
• Excellent coaching skills regarding employee and labor relations
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a team-based environment
• Experience managing collective bargaining agreements
• Experience with impact bargaining negotiations

Terms

Managerial, D61. This position is subject to the City of Boston residency requirement.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Boston Public Schools, in accordance with its nondiscrimination policies, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, criminal record, physical or mental disability, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, homelessness, sex/gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetics, natural or protective hairstyle, military status, immigration status, English language proficiency, or any other factor prohibited by law in its programs and activities. BPS does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals’ dignity or interferes with their ability to work or learn. If you require an accommodation pursuant to the ADA for the application process, please contact the Accommodations Unit at [e-mail].