Labor Relations Representative- HR Labor / Employee Relations & Corporate Safety

FirstEnergy • Akron, OH

1d

About The Position

This position serves as a strategic liaison between the electric utility and its unionized workforce, supporting lead negotiators in maintaining constructive labor-management relations. The role ensures compliance with collective bargaining agreements, facilitates grievance resolution, and contributes to negotiations that support operational reliability, safety, and regulatory compliance. The representative works closely with field operations, generation, transmission, and distribution teams to align labor strategies with business needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Labor Relations, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 4-7 years of experience in labor relations within a unionized environment, preferably in the utility, energy, or industrial sectors (for Level III).
• 7-10 years of experience in labor relations within a unionized environment, preferably in the utility, energy, or industrial sectors (for Level IV).

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with utility unions such as IBEW, UWUA, or other trade-specific labor organizations.
• Knowledge of utility-specific regulatory frameworks (e.g., FERC, NERC, PUCO) and their impact on labor practices.
• Experience supporting multi-union environments and large-scale bargaining units.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems and labor analytics tools for tracking grievances, arbitration, and workforce trends.
• Certification in Labor Relations or HR (e.g., SHRM, CLRP) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the contact for union representatives and employees regarding labor-related matters across utility operations, including regulated generation, transmission, distribution, and customer service.
• Interpret and administer collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and alignment with operational goals.
• Support lead negotiators to prepare for bargaining sessions by compiling operational data, drafting proposals, and conducting cost impact analyses.
• Assist in grievance resolution, investigations, and disciplinary actions in accordance with CBAs and company policies, with a focus on safety-sensitive environments.
• Collaborate with operational leaders to address workforce planning, shift schedules, and work rule interpretations that impact service reliability and regulatory compliance.
• Provide training and guidance to supervisors and managers on labor relations policies, contract administration, and union engagement strategies.
• Monitor labor trends, legislative developments, and regulatory changes (e.g., NERC, FERC, OSHA) that may affect labor relations and recommend proactive strategies.
• Maintain accurate records of grievances, arbitration outcomes, labor activities, and negotiated agreements.
• Participate in union-management committees and joint initiatives focused on safety, workforce development, and operational excellence.

Benefits

• Competitive pay plus incentive compensation
• Company-sponsored pension plan
• 401(k) savings plan with matching employer contribution
• Choice of medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, and life insurance programs
• Skills development training with tuition reimbursement

What This Job Offers

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