Senior Labor Relations Strategist

Ocean State Job Lot; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Metra is seeking a Lead Labor Relations Specialist (Advocacy) to lead negotiations, administer labor agreements, and advise management on policy interpretation. The role requires managing disciplinary processes, investigations, and complex hearings while collaborating with unions and staff.

The position reports to the Director of Labor Relations and supports a broad set of labor relations activities across the agency, including arbitration, policy development, and adverse event reviews.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations, Industrial Relations or related field.
• At least seven years of labor relations experience including contract negotiations, administration, or hearings.
• Strong knowledge of union contract administration and disciplinary investigations.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Capability to develop constructive relationships with managers and union officials.
• Willingness to travel within and outside Metra's 6-county region.

Responsibilities

• Follow labor relations procedures ensuring compliance with applicable laws and update documents with legislative changes.
• Collaborate on development of tactics and strategies aligned with department goals.
• Lead and support Labor Relations staff on administrative tasks, meetings and analyses.
• Handle complex disciplinary hearings, investigations and write findings.
• Collect, analyze and report discipline data related to labor and railroad trends.
• Maintain discipline database and Diversity Equity Inclusion metrics.

Skills

Strong verbal and writtenCommunication

Strong presentation skills

Negotiation skills

Research and analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Independent work multitasking

Discretion with sensitive information

Ability to understand and apply labor/

Education

Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations, Industrial Relations or related field

Tools

Microsoft 365

Word, Excel, Outlook

Job description

Metra is seeking a Lead Labor Relations Specialist (Advocacy) to lead negotiations, administer labor agreements, and advise management on policy interpretation. The role requires managing disciplinary processes, investigations, and complex hearings while collaborating with unions and staff.

The position reports to the Director of Labor Relations and supports a broad set of labor relations activities across the agency, including arbitration, policy development, and adverse event reviews.