Labor Relations Mediator

State of Ohio • Columbus, OH

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The State Employment Relations Board (SERB) is seeking a skilled and impartial Labor Relations Mediator to support public‑sector employers and unions across Ohio. This role is ideal for a professional who thrives in dynamic environments, excels at conflict resolution, and is committed to fostering productive labor‑management relationships. As a neutral third party, you will guide negotiations through mediation, help resolve disputes, and promote collaborative problem‑solving—ensuring that parties are empowered to reach meaningful, self‑determined agreements. The State of Ohio is a drug-free workplace which prohibits the use of marijuana (recreational marijuana/non-medical cannabis). Please note, this position may be subject to additional restrictions pursuant to the State of Ohio Drug-Free Workplace Policy (HR-39), and as outlined in the posting. Ohio is a Disability Inclusion State and strives to be a model employer of individuals with disabilities. The State of Ohio is committed to providing access and inclusion and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws. The final candidate selected for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check, Ohio tax check, and drug screen. Criminal convictions do not necessarily preclude an applicant from consideration for a position. An individual assessment of an applicant's prior criminal convictions will be made before excluding an applicant from consideration. The Ohio State Employment Relations Board is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin (ancestry), military status, disability, age (40 years or older), genetic information, sexual orientation, or caregiver status, in making employment-related decisions about an individual. Interviews will be conducted on an ongoing basis during the posting period.

Requirements

• 7 years collective bargaining experience or equivalent closely related experience (e.g., personnel or business or public administration, or employee relations or industrial relations including Ohio Revised Code 4117)
• Must be able to provide own transportation

Responsibilities

• Lead Mediation and Negotiation Efforts: Intervene in collective bargaining negotiations to mediate disputed issues between employers and union representatives.
• Develop strategies for settlement, clarify issues, and help parties understand the implications of potential actions.
• Facilitate Labor‑Management Collaboration: Conduct training on interest‑based bargaining and labor‑management cooperation techniques.
• Manage Mediation Activities Statewide: Plan, arrange, and conduct mediation sessions, bargaining meetings, and related activities across Ohio, including significant statewide travel.
• Resolve Impasses and Unfair Labor Practice Cases: Work to resolve negotiation impasses prior to fact‑finding and promote mutually crafted settlements.
• Mediate unfair labor practice cases following probable cause determinations.
• Conduct Research and Prepare Documentation: Review and analyze negotiation and impasse data, historical cases, and contract information to prepare for mediation.
• Assist in preparing quarterly fact-finding/conciliation statistics reports.
• Engage with Stakeholders: Deliver presentations and speaking engagements to specialized audiences and the general public.
• Handle sensitive inquiries and maintain strong professional relationships with public officials, union representatives, and community stakeholders.

Benefits

• Medical Coverage
• Free Dental, Vision and Basic Life Insurance premiums after completion of eligibility period
• Paid time off, including vacation, personal, sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year
• Childbirth, Adoption, and Foster Care leave
• Education and Development Opportunities (Employee Development Funds, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and more)
• Public Retirement Systems ( such as OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS ) & Optional Deferred Compensation ( Ohio Deferred Compensation )

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed