MANAGER OF LABOR RELATIONS - (DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELATIONS) - SHAKMAN EXEMPT

Cook County Government; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Manager of Labor Relations to lead labor activities and ensure compliance with laws and agreements. This role involves developing strategies, managing negotiations, and fostering collaboration between management and employee representatives. Located in the vibrant Loop District of Chicago, this position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to public service while enjoying a rewarding work environment. If you are passionate about labor relations and want to make a significant impact in a dynamic setting, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off

Paid sick leave

Minimum of 10 vacation days annually

Up to 4 personal days annually

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; 3 years in Labor Relations or related field.
• 2 years in a supervisory role preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Labor Liaison Officers and manage workflow for the Bargaining & Policy unit.
• Communicate with staff and union officials with diplomacy and confidentiality.
• Track bargaining files and prepare resolutions for the County Board.

Skills

Directing and supervising staff members

Knowledge of County policies and union labor agreements

Business communication principles

Resolving labor/management negotiation disputes

Effective communication

Education

Bachelor's degree

Juris Doctor or Master's degree

Job description

Job Description - MANAGER OF LABOR RELATIONS - (DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELATIONS) - SHAKMAN EXEMPT (00135453)

Requisition ID

00135453

Job Posting

Jan 9, 2025, 10:44:43 PM

Closing Date

Ongoing

Shift

Start Time: 8:30 A.M. | End Time: 4:30 P.M.

Organization

Offices Under the President

OVERVIEW

The Cook County Bureau of Human Resources is seeking a Manager of Labor Relations to oversee labor relations activities ensuring compliance with labor laws, regulations, and collective bargaining agreements. This role involves developing and implementing labor relations strategies, managing union negotiations, resolving workplace disputes, and fostering collaborative relationships between management and employee representatives.

Cook County offers great benefits and the chance to participate in a strong tradition of public service. Cook County is home to more than five million residents, roughly 45% of Illinois’ population. Cook County Government provides a range of vital services and programs that enhance the quality of life for residents across the region.

WHY PURSUE A CAREER WITH COOK COUNTY?

In addition to providing employees with a challenging, rewarding environment for career and personal growth, we offer some of the best benefits in the public sphere, including:

• Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; Minimum of 10 vacation days annually; Up to 4 personal days annually; and Paid sick leave)
• Cook County serves 5.28 million residents of Chicago and its inner suburbs.
• Cook County employs over 22,000 employees who work in a variety of skilled jobs and trades.
• Cook County maintains almost 600 miles of roads and highways.
• Cook County assesses the value of more than 1.5 million parcels of taxable land.
• Cook County provides vital services to local government, including conducting elections and offering 911 services.

LOCATION:

Located in the Loop District of downtown Chicago, the area has an astounding number of cultural foundations, stunning parks such as Millennial Park and Maggie Daley Park, steps away from the Chicago Riverwalk, award-winning restaurants, and plenty of shopping.

ROLE SUMMARY

Under the general supervision of the Deputy of Labor Relations – Bargaining & Policy, oversees the work of the Bargaining & Policy unit. Supervises the Labor Liaison Officers and provides support for the Senior Labor Liaison Officers. Coordinates and directs the workflow of the Bargaining & Policy Unit to ensure proper distribution of work, and reviews task lists of Labor Officers to ensure that projects and assignments are completed on time. Works with department and agency leadership to develop and track progress on strategic goals for the Labor Department.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Supervises and directs Labor Liaison Officers and provides support for the Senior Labor Liaison Officers.
• Communicates with staff members, department heads, management, employees, and union officials with diplomacy and confidentiality.
• Tracks the bargaining files and notes to ensure all confidential bargaining material is maintained.
• Creates and manages project plans, schedules, deliverables, and performance metrics.
• Conducts performance management of assigned staff.
• Identifies and proposes solutions to existing backlogs and/or barriers to resolution of collective bargaining issues.
• Develops recommendations concerning inefficient workflow procedures.
• Monitors and coordinates the timely preparation of Resolutions for the County Board.
• Designs and presents training courses and programs for internal and external County staff.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Directing and supervising staff members.
• Knowledge of County policies and technical vernacular used throughout each union labor agreement.
• Thorough knowledge of business communication principles and techniques.
• Skill in resolving labor/management contractual negotiation disputes.
• Ability to communicate effectively and conduct oneself in a professional manner.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree; and
• Three (3) years of experience in Business Administration, Public Administration, Labor Relations, or related field; and
• Two (2) years of experience in a supervisory or managerial capacity.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Juris Doctor or master’s degree in business administration, Public Administration, Labor, or Human Resources.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Sedentary Work involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally or a negligible amount of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.

EMPLOYMENT TERMS:

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: This position is exempt from the County’s career service rules, is at-will, and political reasons or factors may be considered when taking any employment action.