Assistant Manager, Labor Relations

Massachusetts Water Resources Authority • Winthrop, MA

3d • $89,628 - $131,818 • Hybrid

About The Position

Assists in the administration and operation of the Authority's labor relations functions within the Human Resources Department. Serves as a key resource to management on collective bargaining agreement interpretation, grievance administration, disciplinary matters, workplace investigations, labor-management issues, and employee relations matters involving bargaining unit employees. Supports the Manager, Labor Relations in collective bargaining, contract administration, arbitration preparation, union information requests, labor-management committee meetings, training initiatives and special projects.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in labor relations, human resources, business administration, public administration or related field; and
• A minimum of four (4) years of experience in labor relations, employee relations, employee investigations or related work preferably in the public sector or union environment; or
• Any equivalent combination of education or experience.
• A valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operators License or driver's license from another state is required to travel to MWRA sites.

Nice To Haves

• May be eligible to telework up to 50% after an initial waiting period.
• Excellent analytical skills.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion in confidential matters.
• Experience with labor relations, grievances and collective bargaining.
• Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, HRIS and case management systems.

Responsibilities

• Serves as hearing officer or management representative for grievance, disciplinary, and pre-disciplinary hearings.
• Reviews grievances, research facts, gather relevant documentation, analyze contract language, prepare case materials and draft responses or recommended decisions.
• Participates and assists in collective bargaining matters including proposal development, responses to requests for information, maintaining bargaining records and meeting organization.
• Provides training and support to managers and supervisors on labor relations matters, including contract interpretation, grievance procedures, performance, just cause, disciplinary issues and documentation.
• Prepares written correspondence, reports, summaries, notices, hearing materials and other labor relations documents.
• Assists with union information requests, including gathering records, coordinating internal reviews, tracking deadlines and preparing draft responses.
• Supports legal counsel in arbitration matters, unfair labor practice charges and other labor related litigation by preparing case files, timelines and summaries.
• Maintains effective working relationships with managers, union representatives, legal counsel and employees.
• Provide assistance to the Manager, Labor Relations in the implementation of special projects as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level