Senior Employee & Labor Relations Specialist

Responsibilities

• Establish and provide effective consultative services to human resource representatives and managers on employee and labor relations issues and processes.
• Expand training and communication with human resource representatives, managers, employee groups and externally with union representatives.
• Aid in the day-to-day operations of labor administration including grievance procedure.
• Provide consistent and timely advice and consultation and make recommendations to supervisors on performance management and disciplinary action on contract administration and disciplinary processes.
• Deliver technical training on Labor Relations and the Collective Bargaining Agreements, conduct investigations, and document employment issues.
• Conduct research on a variety of human resource related issues, helping to develop both policies and procedures that reflect best practice.
• Interpret, explain and apply applicable state and federal laws, rules, regulations, policies and procedures.
• Provide training to HR Reps and supervisors to enhance fact gathering and documentation and to increase employee engagements.
• Provide support for Employee and Labor Relations, coordinate grievance meetings, information requests or other related items.
• Attend SEIU and AFSCME Labor Management Meetings and ELR weekly meetings.
• Receive and track disciplinary notices for Health Care staff.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in human resources management or business administration or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• 3 years of experience working with complex employment and labor relations issues
• Experience with policy development and compliance, progressive discipline, collective bargaining agreements in administering HR policy and practice
• Administration of leave and accommodation request under the Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• Knowledge of contemporary human resource principles, practices and process and current federal and state laws, statutes, regulations, policies and directives pertaining to Human Resources
• Effective communication and relationship building skills, and ability to work with a variety of constituents
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office applications
• Demonstrated experience working effectively in a welcoming and respectful workplace environment

Desired Qualifications

• Juris Doctor or master’s degree in business administration or related field
• Working knowledge of University of Iowa and UI Health Care policies and procedures, including those covered by the merit system, SEIU, AFSCME, and COGS
• Working knowledge of ADA and FMLA
• Experience in a unionized workplace
• Knowledge of the healthcare environment is highly desirable