Job Specification Details

The Senior Labor Relations Specialist provides guidance, direction and support to managers and employees at all levels within State Government with respect to workplace issues to ensure appropriate, consistent interpretation and application of State of Vermont policies, procedures, collective bargaining agreements, and applicable employment laws and regulations related to labor relations, collective bargaining, discipline and performance management, workforce planning and training. Work at this level differs from the Labor Relation Specialist class in the complexity of assignments and higher degree of independent action and judgment required.

Provides guidance, direction and support to employees at all levels within State Government regarding interpretation and application of State of Vermont policies, procedures, collective bargaining agreements, disciplinary processes, and applicable employment laws and regulations related to labor relations, collective bargaining, performance management, workforce planning and training. Researches, formulates, implements, administers, and interprets collective bargaining agreements, State policies and procedures, work rules and regulations for managers, supervisors, employees, the general public and other Department of Human Resources staff.

Participates in and/or represents the State of Vermont in all phases of collective bargaining negotiations. Conducts research, surveys, and prepares materials for labor negotiations. Creates bargaining proposals and compiles necessary supporting materials for bargaining. Provide expert advice and assistance in the implementation and administration of collective bargaining agreements. Provides assistance to legal counsel using knowledge of various human resource disciplines and systems, such as collective bargaining agreements, health insurance and retirement, to develop strategies to defend and/or resolve employment litigation.

Facilitates Step III grievance meetings, writes decisions or negotiates and drafts grievance settlement agreements, and represents the State on joint labor-management committees. Works with unions and managers or supervisors to develop, implement and coordinate other labor relations programs or initiatives, alternative dispute resolution procedures or other methods for improving the grievance process.

Presents information and provides training concerning employee and labor management relations issues to a variety of audiences. Responsible for statewide workforce initiatives such as, workforce equity and diversity, ADA, affirmative action, and EEO reporting. provides support to, or may serve as, the Chairperson of the state Reasonable Accommodation Committee. May be assigned to Human Resources functions related to emergency management, including Continuity of Operations and Continuity of Government. Performs related duties as required.

Duties are normally performed in a standard office setting. Some travel may be required for which private means of transportation should be available. Some work outside of normal work schedule may be required. Strong differences of opinion may be encountered in dealing with employee grievances, employees, union representatives, managers, or the public.

Thorough knowledge of the laws, regulations, principles and procedures of collective bargaining and personnel administration.

Thorough knowledge of dispute resolution processes.

Considerable knowledge of principles of personnel administration, and human resources rules, policies and practices.

Advanced knowledge of the techniques of contract negotiation and mediation.

Considerable knowledge of the regulations governing employment related statutes such as, ADA/ADAAA, FMLA, and FLSA.

Ability to analyze and interpret complex federal and state statute, contract proposals and provisions, and personnel rules and policies and regulations.

Ability to maintain effective relationships with labor organizations, managers, employees, and the public.

Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.

Computer proficiency including familiarity with business applications, such as Microsoft Office.

Bachelor’s degree or higher in labor/employee relations AND two (2) years or more of experience in human resources, including labor/employee relations, labor contract negotiation and/or administration, or experience administering labor and employment laws and regulations (such as EEOC, FLSA, FMLA, ADA/ADAAA).

OR

Bachelor's degree or higher in human resources, business, public administration, or related field AND four (4) years or more of experience in human resources, including labor/employee relations, labor contract negotiation and/or administration, or experience administering labor and employment laws and regulations (such as EEOC, FLSA, FMLA, ADA/ADAAA).

OR

Six (6) years or more of experience in human resources, including experience with labor/employee relations, labor contract negotiation and/or administration, or experience administering labor and employment laws and regulations (such as EEOC, FLSA, FMLA, ADA/ADAAA).

n/a