DEPUTY DIRECTOR, LABOR RELATIONS - LITIGATION (DEPARTMENT OF LABOR RELATIONS) - SHAKMAN EXEMPT

Cook County, IL•Chicago, IL

63d

About The Position

Cook County Department of Labor Relations is seeking a Deputy Director, Labor Relations - Litigation to provide strategic legal and operational leadership on complex labor relations matters. This role serves as a key advisor to County leadership, overseeing labor negotiations, litigation strategy, and policy implementation. The Deputy Director coordinates the work of Labor Relations staff, represents the County in negotiations with multiple collective bargaining units, and collaborates with union and management stakeholders to develop and execute negotiation strategies. The position also supervises labor counsel in arbitration matters, reviews disciplinary and grievance decisions, and provides expert guidance on labor-related policies and compliance. 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. These services range from health care to urban planning. Cook County is committed to empowering its employees to bring our constituents the best that public service has to offer. This position may be eligible for a signing bonus. Attention Applicants: Please note that as part of ongoing job architecture initiatives, the County is reviewing job titles and corresponding grades, which may be subject to change.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited law school with a Juris Doctorate (JD) and
Four (4) years of labor relations, human resources, litigation, or directly related experience and
Licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois.

Nice To Haves

Six (6) years of Labor Relations, Human Resources or Litigation experience.
Four (4) years of previous management or supervisory experience.

Responsibilities

Assumes primary responsibility for labor negotiations with new and existing collective bargaining units; develops strategy for labor negotiations; conducts all related liaison activities between management, outside legal counsel and labor unions to coordinate and ensure the orderly progression of deliberations and represents the Deputy Chief at such gatherings.
Addresses a wide range of issues related to job classification, transfers and layoffs, and other matters requiring an in-depth understanding of and interaction with County management and other areas of the Human Resources Bureau.
Acts as liaison on behalf of and represents the Deputy Chief with matters related to the Office of the Chief Judge, Health and Hospital System, Office of the State's Attorney, Sheriff's Department, Assessor, other elected officials, County department heads, and other groups and agencies.
Works with the Deputy Chief in the coordination and supervision of the Labor/Employee Relations staff in department matters, and in doing so exercises a key role in the formulation, implementation, and enforcement of labor and employee policies for Cook County.
Reviews hearing officers' decisions in third-step grievance and disciplinary matters; formulates strategy, supervises, and coordinates Labor Counsel in arbitration matters; supervises and coordinates Labor Relations personnel.
Analyzes proposed and existing collective bargaining agreements, conducts research of case law and other documents and materials and records all relevant deliberations and points of discussion taking place at the table. Reviews and interprets union proposals and conveys insightful analysis with recommendations for possible modifications in the County's position and policies.
Works with the Deputy Chief and outside legal counsel to negotiate with labor unions and explain to unions, elected officials and department heads the County's proposals and positions in a wide variety of matters including, but not limited to, wages, benefits, working conditions, job classification, uniform and pay differentials, and work rules.
Assists in the evaluation, formation and implementation of policy directives affecting employees of Cook County including but not limited benefits, work rules and personnel rules.
Provides legal advice and counsel to Deputy Chief, Bureau Chief of Human Resources and other County Officials on all matters related to the Bureau of Human Resources.
Assists and advises bureau chiefs, department heads, and supervisors on all labor matters including employee discipline, policy interpretation, policy implementation, and department organization.
Oversees matters related to the Employee Appeals Board and act as Representative of the Employee Appeals Board.
Works with outside counsel and retained experts on a variety of employment related issues, including the Affordable Care Act and benefit plan designs, health care, pension and other post-employment benefits.
Provides advice and counsel on employment-related laws, policies, and matters such as the Family and Medical Leave Act, the Affordable Care Act, and Equal Employment Opportunity laws.

Benefits

Top Tier Medical Benefits: Medical Plans, Prescription Drug Benefit, Dental Plans, Vision Plan and 9 Additional voluntary benefit plans
Flexible Teleworking Options
Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; Minimum of 15 vacation days annually; and Paid sick leave)
Pension Plan
Financial Support Programs and Resources: Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts - Dependent Day Care, Commuter Benefits, Discounted Parking, PSLF Eligibility, Deferred Compensation and Education Tuition Stipend
Health/Wellness Perks: Flexible Spending Accounts-Health Care, Employee Assistance Program and MyHealth Connections wellness program.

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