Senior Labor Relations Strategist

Cadient, LLC; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Metra is seeking a Lead Labor Relations Specialist (Advocacy) to oversee complex labor agreements and policy interpretation. The role focuses on contract negotiations, arbitration, and disciplined investigations within a challenging railroad environment.

You will collaborate with unions and management, lead multiple projects, and ensure compliance with federal and state laws while advancing Metra’s strategic goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations, Industrial Relations or related field required or equivalent experience.
• At least seven years of labor relations experience including contract negotiations and administration.
• Strong knowledge of union contracts, investigations and disciplinary processes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, presentation and negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support labor relations activities, including bargaining, policy interpretation, and contract administration.
• Conduct disciplinary investigations and prepare findings; advise management on proper application of agreements.
• Represent Metra in arbitration and manage grievance and complaint processes.
• Develop constructive relationships with union representatives to resolve issues and improve outcomes.
• Provide leadership and guidance to staff, manage multiple projects, and ensure confidentiality.

Skills

Negotiation

Labor relations

Contract administration

Discipline investigations

Grievance handling

Arbitration

Policy interpretation

Project management

Communication skills

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 oversee complex labor agreements and policy interpretation. The role focuses on contract negotiations, arbitration, and disciplined investigations within a challenging railroad environment.

You will collaborate with unions and management, lead multiple projects, and ensure compliance with federal and state laws while advancing Metra’s strategic goals.