Chief Labor Relations Negotiator

City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision starting 1

6% employee 401a contribution with 6%/

Retiree Health Savings Account

Voluntary benefits such as life, FSA,

Twelve Paid Holidays

Paid Vacation and Sick Time

Paid parking

Employee Home Ownership Incentive

Tuition Reimbursement

Paid Parental Leave

Employee Assistance Program

Wellness program

Employee Discounts and Perks

Job summary

The City of Grand Rapids is seeking an experienced HR professional specializing in labor relations, collective bargaining, and employee relations to shape workplace policies and strengthen labor-management partnerships for a fair, productive workforce.

You will lead negotiations, interpret contracts, advise leadership, ensure compliance, supervise HR staff, and drive strategic labor relations initiatives across the city government.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business administration or public/public administration or related field.
• Five years of progressively responsible professional and supervisory experience in employee and labor relations, including collective bargaining, serving as a management spokesperson, and conducting internal investigations.
• Strong negotiation, leadership, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead collective bargaining negotiations and serve as the City's chief negotiator.
• Interpret and administer labor contracts and resolve grievances.
• Advise City leadership on employee relations, investigations, and disciplinary matters.
• Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws, regulations, and City policies.
• Supervise HR professionals and develop effective labor relations strategies.

Skills

Negotiation

Leadership

Communication

Analytical

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in business administration or public administration

Master's degree or J.D. or HR certification preferred

Equivalent combinations of education, training and experience considered

Job description

The City of Grand Rapids is seeking an experienced HR professional specializing in labor relations, collective bargaining, and employee relations to shape workplace policies and strengthen labor-management partnerships for a fair, productive workforce.

You will lead negotiations, interpret contracts, advise leadership, ensure compliance, supervise HR staff, and drive strategic labor relations initiatives across the city government.