Senior Labor Relations & Arbitration Specialist

newhavenct.gov; New Haven (CT); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

City of New Haven seeks an experienced Labor Relations Specialist to provide high‑level legal research, drafting, and arbitration support. You will prepare briefs, memoranda, and contract language, organize case files, and assist with negotiations and settlements.

Work requires discretion and confidentiality, with independent handling of complex assignments and collaboration with the Director and attorneys. Knowledge of public sector labor relations and strong writing skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Graduation from a four-year college with related field and 5–7 years of labor relations or legal research experience.
• Or four-year degree with paralegal certification and 4–6 years of labor/employment support experience.
• Equivalent additional experience may substitute for a degree.

Responsibilities

• Conducts legal research related to public sector labor relations, bargaining, arbitration, and employment matters.
• Drafts memoranda, case law summaries, statutory analyses, and decisions impacting labor relations.
• Prepare written submissions for arbitration, hearings, or court proceedings, including briefs and motions.
• Organizes case files, prepares exhibits, and coordinates witness materials for litigation or arbitration.
• Maintain internal docketing for grievances, arbitration matters, and complaints.
• Support contract provisions, past practice documents, and arbitration records for case strategy.
• Draft and revise contract language, MOUs, and negotiated proposals for review.

Skills

Legal research

Legal writing

Contract drafting

Arbitration support

Labor relations knowledge

Analytical drafting

Independent work

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in legal studies or related field

Paralegal certificate or legal writing training

Equivalent experience substituted for degree

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Project

Job description

City of New Haven seeks an experienced Labor Relations Specialist to provide high‑level legal research, drafting, and arbitration support. You will prepare briefs, memoranda, and contract language, organize case files, and assist with negotiations and settlements.

Work requires discretion and confidentiality, with independent handling of complex assignments and collaboration with the Director and attorneys. Knowledge of public sector labor relations and strong writing skills are essential.