Labor Relations Specialist: Arbitration & Policy Expert

Metra Commuter Rail; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 103,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

Metra is seeking a Lead Labor Relations Specialist to oversee administration of labor agreements, policy, and discipline processes. The role involves advising management, conducting investigations, and representing Metra in arbitration, with emphasis on complex union matters across multiple bargaining agreements.

The candidate should bring extensive labor relations experience, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to lead staff while protecting organizational interests.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 7+ years in labor relations with contract negotiations and administration.
• Knowledge of union contract administration and disciplinary investigations.
• Knowledge of contract drafting and administration; and of labor negotiation/arbitration.

Responsibilities

• Follow labor relations procedures and update documents with legislative changes.
• Develop tactics and strategies aligned with department/agency goals.
• Lead and support staff on administrative tasks, meetings, and analyses.
• Handle complex disciplinary hearings, investigations, and findings reports.
• Collect, analyze and report on discipline data related to labor and railroad trends.
• Maintain discipline database, DEI metrics, and related data in systems.
• Act as SME on labor relations, laws, changes, dispute resolution.

Skills

Labor relations

Contract negotiations

Disciplinary investigations

Arbitration

Verbal & written communication

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations

Tools

Microsoft 365

Job description

Metra is seeking a Lead Labor Relations Specialist to oversee administration of labor agreements, policy, and discipline processes. The role involves advising management, conducting investigations, and representing Metra in arbitration, with emphasis on complex union matters across multiple bargaining agreements.

The candidate should bring extensive labor relations experience, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to lead staff while protecting organizational interests.