Principal Labor Relations Specialist

Join the Labor Relations Department as a Principal Labor Relations Specialist, reporting to the Assistant Director of Labor Relations. This hybrid role involves managing a docket of labor relations matters, including discipline, grievances, and improper practice charges, while supporting negotiations and collective bargaining efforts. Key to success is building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and union leadership.

Note: Candidates with relatives who are Port Authority or PATH employees represented for collective bargaining are ineligible for this position.

Responsibilities

• Contract Interpretation, Research, and Negotiations Support
  • Support the negotiation team and perform bargaining-related functions as assigned.
  • Conduct research and analysis on emerging labor issues, agency precedent, policies, and procedures; synthesize findings into memoranda for leadership and staff.
  • Assist in negotiations and drafting of successor collective bargaining agreements.
  • Draft polished memoranda, side letter agreements, and position statements on complex labor issues.
  • Provide interpretation and administration of collective bargaining agreements and labor-related issues regarding contract language, work rules, past practices, unit work, law, and policies; develop contract language for agreements.
  • Serve as a point of contact, coordinator, and representative for special assignments requiring Labor Relations Department participation.
  • Develop, update, and maintain a database/repository of agency’s prior labor decisions and other resources to improve accessibility to precedent.
• Dispute Resolution and Disciplinary Matters
  • Maintain a docket of grievances, improper practices, and disciplinary cases in adherence with contractual timeframes, under the supervision of the Senior Labor Relations Executive or Labor Relations Executive.
  • Perform investigations, analysis, and identification of issues; conduct contractual, policy, rule, and case research.
  • Conduct site visits and collaborate with stakeholders.
  • Coordinate and lead matters prior to attorney assignment; recommend dispositions and conclusions on liability/exposure.
  • Draft memoranda, responses, charges, and settlement documents.
  • Engage with unions and negotiate settlement terms.
  • Attend and participate in hearings and conferences, including presenting the agency’s case in disciplinary matters.
  • Implement disposition terms and maintain records/tracking of matters.
  • Assist with inquiries regarding contractual provisions, procedures, and matters.
  • Conduct ad hoc research projects and compile data to identify trends and areas for improvement.
  • Track and analyze key performance indicators for reporting to leadership.
• General
  • Prepare and conduct training sessions for Port Authority staff on labor topics and emerging issues.
  • Develop labor guidance and communications for stakeholders.
  • Maintain relationships with union representatives.
  • Perform other related work pertinent to the Labor Relations Department’s dynamic and fast-paced function.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor or Master’s Degree in Labor and Employment Relations or a related field.
• Minimum three years of progressively responsible experience in labor relations, human resources, business administration, law, and/or investigations, including:
  • Legal research and drafting.
  • Interpretation of union contracts.
  • Knowledge of collective bargaining terminology and practices.
• Experience working in a confidential environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel; ability to communicate clearly and concisely both verbally and in writing.

Qualifications

• Experience in collective bargaining and working in a unionized environment.
• Knowledge of Port Authority policies, procedures, and operations.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct thorough and factual investigations and present findings clearly and persuasively.
• Excellent analytical and complex problem-solving skills to make quality decisions.
• Strong written, oral communication, and listening skills.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize projects in time-sensitive situations, and pay keen attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with unionized and non-unionized staff at all levels and with external contacts.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize and meet multiple deadlines.

Pay

The expected compensation range for this role is:

• Minimum: $100,256
• Midpoint: $130,318
• Maximum: $160,394

Schedule

This position permits employees to work remotely a maximum of one day per week. In-person collaboration is essential, and regular in-office days or team collaboration days may be required based on business needs.

Benefits

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement. Learn more about benefits, culture, and career development opportunities.