Bloomington, IL – Employee & Labor Relations Manager

Plays a pivotal role in fostering positive relationships between management and employees. This position requires an experienced professional with a solid understanding of labor laws, collective bargaining agreements, and experience navigating complex union environments. Is responsible for ensuring fair and equitable treatment of employees while also representing the City’s best interests during negotiations, grievances, lawsuits and investigations.

This list may not include all tasks and/or knowledge which may be expected of the employee, nor does it cover all specific duties which may be required. Other duties may be assigned.

Leads labor relations efforts throughout the City, which includes labor relations and negotiations with 10 bargaining units, including conducting research and cost analysis for all aspects of the negotiation process. Develops strategies to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes while safeguarding the City’s interests.
Interprets and enforces collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) to ensure compliance by both management and employees. Investigates grievances filed by employees. Mediates discussions and facilitates resolutions following established policies, procedures and collective bargaining agreements.
Stays abreast of federal, state, and local labor laws and regulations to ensure compliance in all labor relations activities and assess their potential impact on labor relations strategies. Creates, updates and implement Citywide policies. Works closely with the legal department to provide guidance to management and employees on relevant legal matters.
Provides direction and policy interpretation to department managers in managing their respective Human Resource responsibilities to ensure compliance and consistency within the City.
Reviews discipline and conducts formal investigations regarding policy violations and provide recommendations.
Collaborates with staff to update, develop and implement policies and procedures. Ensures consistency and adherence to best practices as they relate to labor relations across all departments.
Coordinates with legal counsel on legal issues, labor contract language, lawsuits, and/or compliance issues as required. May be called on to provide testimony in any hearing related to these claims. Assists with the preparation of documentation.
Serves as a trusted advisor to both management and employees on matters related to labor or employee relations. Provides guidance and support to promote positive working relationships and effective communication.
Maintains open lines of communication with union leadership and representatives. Addresses concerns, provides updates on relevant issues, and fosters a collaborative working relationship.
Analyzes labor relations data and trends to identify areas for improvement and opportunities. Develops reports and presentations to communicate findings to stakeholders.
Conducts training sessions for management and staff on labor relations topics, including collective bargaining, contract interpretation, conflict resolution, disciplinary procedures and compliance with labor laws.
Responds to requests for information from the public, employees, departments, administration, elected officials and external organizations as appropriate.
Maintains accurate documentation and records of all labor relations activities, including negotiations, grievances, and arbitration proceedings.
Collaborates with senior leadership to develop long-term labor relations strategies aligned with the City’s goals and objectives. Provides input on budgetary considerations and resource allocation.

Required Education/Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Labor Relations, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
Minimum 5 years of experience in labor relations, preferably in a municipal or public sector environment.
Experience in a heavily unionized environment &/or local government.
Equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted.

Preferred Certificates or Licenses:

PHR/SPHR, SHRM-CP/SCP, IPMA-CP, or CLRP
Illinois Driver’s License

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Work is performed in an office setting and at various facilities and outdoors locations. Traveling between worksites in town and occasional travel to other locations for meetings is required.