Job Title

Job Family

Job Code

Job Exempt

Employee Relations Specialist

Non_Bargaining

AHM10

Pay Grade

Pay Rate Type

Minimum

Midpoint

Maximum

NB111

Salary

$29.73

$37.90

$46.07

Job Description

Performs professional work formulating, implementing, and administering labor agreements. Employee performs research, counsels managers and employees, and assists in the development, implementation, and interpretation of labor union contracts. Position also conducts investigations and some training on labor relations related issues. Work is performed under the supervision of the Labor Relations Manager/Chief Negotiator and is reviewed through conferences and reports submitted

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources Management, Business or Public Administration or related field and two (2) years experience in Labor Relations or Human Resources; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Experience in discipline/grievance processes and union contract interpretation highly desired. Proficient use of Microsoft Excel required. A valid Florida Driver's License is required at time of employment. SPHR/PHR and/or IPMA-CP certification a plus.

Responsibilities

EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED:

Note: The listed duties are only illustrative and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed by this job class. The omission of specific statements does not preclude management from assigning specific duties not listed if such duties are a logical assignment to the position.

Interprets union contracts and City policies and procedures; advises employees as to interpretation and application; and counsels supervisors and managers on disciplinary actions so as to avoid grievances or complaints as well as employees in employee relations matters.

Represents the City in investigating and settling potential grievances and employee complaints in a union and non-union environment; serves as hearing officer in formal grievance process; and investigates and makes recommendations in alleged discrimination cases.

Conducts independent research on policy questions, proposed contract changes, etc. as directed.

Acts as a member of various negotiating teams, i.e. IAFF, LIUNA, FOP sworn officers and SEIU bargaining units; assists with preparation and maintenance of minutes for the bargaining sessions with the different unions; and is responsible for the preparation of official records of contract negotiation sessions.

Assists in developing and presenting training seminars for managers and supervisors on grievance processing, contract administration, contract negotiations, supervision, sexual harassment, interviewing techniques, and similar management training subjects.

Assists in preparation for and conduct of hearings held by state agencies, grievance arbitrations, and impasse procedures.

Reviews, analyzes, and makes recommendations for updating of City policies, civil service regulations, and conforming procedures of various bureaus with labor contracts.

Conducts wage and fringe benefit surveys of other municipalities as required.

Represents the City in labor and professional organizations. Serves as property custodian for Labor Relations.

Serves on various committees as designated by the Chief Negotiator.

Provides support to benefits and risk management functions.

Conducts investigations on issues that arise, including issues with discipline, sexual harassment, discrimination, and formal complaints.

Gathers/researches all pertinent information for unemployment claims; formulates all responses to the DOC; and represents the City at unemployment hearings.

Checks relevant databases for employee drug screening reports; properly and clearly communicates this information to relevant parties.

Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Considerable knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local legislation, policies, standards and practices in labor relations activities and human resource management.

Considerable knowledge of the objectives, methods, and problems of public administration.

Considerable knowledge of Microsoft Excel.

Considerable knowledge of Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action.

Knowledge of workers' compensation laws, regulations, and administration.

Knowledge of employee benefits theory, practice, and administration.

Knowledge of learning theory and of contemporary training and development principles, practices, and methods.

Ability to assist in the negotiation of formal group and personal agreements and to resolve interpersonal conflicts.

Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Ability to collect and interpret data through administrative studies and surveys.

Ability to develop a sound course of action or strategy based on a thorough understanding of available information and data.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City administrative officials, department heads, employees, and representatives of labor organizations.

Ability to operate computers to edit information and to produce reports.

Ability to create and maintain spreadsheets utilized for cost analysis related to collective bargaining agreements.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROMOTION: N/A.