Lead Disciplinary Hearing Advocate - 90409107 - Philadelphia

Amtrak•Philadelphia, PA

20d•Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for representing Amtrak and presenting its case in formal investigations for agreement employees charged with violating Amtrak policies, regulations, rules, and procedures. Prior to the investigation hearing, gathers all the relevant evidence and determines the required witnesses. Furthermore, oversees sending out the letter setting forth the charges against the employee within the time limits as prescribed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). During the hearing, 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 the charged employee’s innocence or guilt, works with the employee’s managing department to determine the level of discipline assessed, if any. Ensures that the charged employee and union are properly and timely notified of the disciplinary decision in accordance with the pertinent CBA and that they are sent a copy of the hearing transcript and all exhibits.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree and/or s6 years equivalent combination of training, education, and relevant experience in a similar role or in a position with Labor Relations, Human Resources, or Law, or Equal Employment Opportunity)may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Experience in conducting investigations, researching evidence, and questioning witnesses in a corporate orgovernment setting.
Extensive computer skills including knowledge of spreadsheet, data base, and word processing software.
Extensive computer skills knowledge of virtual meetings and proceedings.
Demonstrated ability to work closely with operational staff.
Demonstrated ability to work within a departmental budget.
Handle high volume of cases within time constraints. Excellent time management.
Ability to work extended hours on short notice and travel frequently.
Must possess excellent oral and written communications skills and be able to interact effectively with all levels of management.
Must have excellent oral and written communication skills.
Ability to work with sensitive and confidential information.
Ability to analyze situations and take appropriate action to ensure resolution.
Good judgement, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills.
Excellent records management and time management skills required.

Nice To Haves

At least 8+ 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 as they relate to operational department business functions.

Responsibilities

Organize and assemble all the 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 on short notice, and participate in disciplinary hearings throughout the country. This may include weekend, holiday 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.