Labor Relations Coordinator

Description

• The Labor Relations Coordinator is responsible for supporting the administration of the collective bargaining agreement and fostering a positive and productive working relationship between the company and the union representing employees at the Chicago Bakery.
• This role involves contract interpretation, grievance administration, providing partnership and guidance to front line leadership, and ensuring compliance with all applicable labor laws and regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

 Contract Administration:

• Serve as a primary point of contact for interpreting the site’s collective bargaining agreements (CBAs).
• Provide guidance to managers and supervisors on CBA application and related policies.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of the CBA, related agreements, and labor relations activities.

Grievance and Dispute Resolution:

• Administer the grievance procedure, including investigating grievances, gathering relevant information, and preparing responses.
• Represent the company and support front-line managers and supervisors in grievance meetings.
• Work to resolve disputes and grievances in a timely and effective manner.
• Track grievance trends and identify opportunities for proactive conflict resolution.

 Union Relationship Management:

• Partner with the site HR Team to build and maintain positive working relationships with union representatives.
• Facilitate regular meetings with union leadership to discuss issues of mutual concern.
• Collaborate with union representatives and company leaders on joint initiatives and problem-solving efforts.

Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local labor laws and regulations, including the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).
• Stay informed about changes in labor law and best practices in labor relations.
• Assist in the local HR Team in the development and implementation of policies and procedures to ensure compliance.

 Training and Communication:

• Develop and deliver training programs for managers and supervisors on labor relations topics, including CBA interpretation, grievance handling, and employee relations best practices.
• Communicate effectively with employees and management on labor relations matters.

Investigations:

• Conduct investigations into employee complaints or concerns related to union matters.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

• Maintain and analyze data related to grievances, arbitrations, and other labor relations activities.
• Prepare reports and presentations on key labor relations metrics.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Labor Relations, or a related field is preferred.
• Multiple years of experience in labor relations, preferably in a unionized manufacturing environment.
• Experience with collective bargaining negotiations, grievance administration, and contract interpretation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of labor laws and regulations, including the NLRA.
• Strong understanding of collective bargaining principles and practices.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with union representatives and employees.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Experience with HRIS systems is a plus.