Sr/Lead Disciplinary Hearing Advocate - 90409269 (Remote Optional)

Amtrak

9d•Remote

About The Position

This position is responsible for representing Amtrak and presenting its case in formal investigations for agreement employees charged with violating Amtrak policies, regulations, rules, and procedures. The primary role will be supporting the operating crafts (T&E, Dispatch and OBS). Prior to the investigation hearing, the incumbent gathers all relevant evidence and determines the required witnesses. They oversee sending out the letter setting forth the charges against the employee within the time limits prescribed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). During the hearing, the incumbent questions Amtrak witnesses, cross-examines witnesses called by the union or charged employee, and raises/responds to objections. Once the Hearing Officer reaches a determination on whether the charge was proven or not, the incumbent works with the employee’s management department to determine the level of discipline to be assessed, if any. They ensure that the charged employee and union are notified properly and timely of the disciplinary decision in accordance with the pertinent CBA and are sent a copy of the hearing transcript and all exhibits. This is a tiered position, with incumbents having a position level assigned based on their skills and experience, and in alignment with position development plans. Position placement is at Amtrak’s sole and absolute discretion.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent combination of education, training and/or relevant experience.
3+ years of relevant work experience.
Experience in conducting investigations, researching evidence, and questioning witnesses in a corporate or government setting.
Discretion to work with sensitive and confidential information
Sharp analytical skills to evaluate situations and take appropriate action to ensure resolution
Good judgement, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills
Excellent records management and time management skills
Proficient computer skills including spreadsheet, data base, and word processing software as well as virtual meetings and proceedings
Ability to work closely with operational staﬀ
Understanding of how to work within a departmental budget
Handle high volume of cases within time constraints using solid time management skills
Excellent oral and written communications skills and ability to interact eﬀectively with all levels of management

Nice To Haves

At least 5+ years’ experience as a Charging Oﬃcer or similar experience in a position with Labor Relations, Human Resources, or Operations.
College degree and/or Juris Doctor degree preferred.
Previous experience with disciplinary investigations and proceedings in a union environment.
Knowledge of Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and Amtrak policies and procedures related to operational department business functions.
De novo arbitration experience

Responsibilities

Organize and assemble all relative evidentiary documents prior to the hearing investigating the employee’s alleged misconduct.
Determine which witnesses are required to effectively present Amtrak’s case and the order in which they will testify.
Work independently with attention to detail, to ensure disciplinary hearing correspondence is handled within appropriate timelines, including charge letters, letters of postponement, and discipline letters.
Travel, sometimes at short notice, and participate in disciplinary hearings throughout the country. This may include weekends, holidays and oﬀ-hours travel in order to accommodate business needs.
During investigations, effectively question Amtrak witnesses, cross examine union/charged employee witnesses, and respond to/raise objections as appropriate.
Develop and maintain professional relationships with all Organization department heads and their staﬀs.