Industrial Relations Specialist

Position Details

Department of Government Services - Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

Reporting to the Director of Labour Relations, the Industrial Relations Specialist provides conciliation/mediation services to unions and private and public sector employers across all industries operating primarily under the Labour Relations Act and the Public Sector Collective Bargaining Act. The Conciliation Officer intervenes in collective bargaining disputes when negotiations have stalled, acts as a neutral third party in these complex disputes and chairs the conciliation meetings. They research and analyze relevant bargaining information to support timely and effective dispute resolution. This position also facilitates most of the annual fish price setting negotiations between the stakeholders under the Fishing Industry Collective Bargaining Act. They ensure collective agreements are in place prior to the opening date of the relevant fishery by facilitating the collective bargaining process and reaching negotiated agreements or coordinating the arbitration process in conjunction with the Standing Fish Price Setting Panel. The Officer disseminates all Panel correspondence including decisions. Through the Preventive Mediation Program, the Officer consults with clients seeking to strengthen their labour-management relationships, helps them assess their issues and develops tailored strategies responsive to their needs. The incumbent delivers conflict resolution programs across diverse industries. They provide technical guidance and act as a resource to mediate the successful outcome of difficulties and grievances encountered in the workplace. The Officer facilitates training in and delivery of traditional and interest-based negotiations; designs and delivers labour management training programs; as well as facilitates the appointment of arbitrator requests. The Officer conducts research and assists in drafting labour legislation and policy. They prepare reports, briefing notes, presentations and other materials for senior management. The role requires a high degree of independence and the ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders.

Screening Criteria

1. Completion of a degree in a related field such as Business, Employee Relations, Human Resources, Law, Psychology, or Social Work (equivalencies will be considered)
2. Completion of courses in Mediation or Alternate Dispute Resolution (asset)
3. Experience in labour relations and with relevant labour legislation
4. Experience in mediation, collective bargaining or conciliation (asset)
5. Experience providing training and facilitation
6. Experience assisting in policy development and in drafting reports, briefing notes and related materials

Assessment Criteria

1. Knowledge of labour environment and issues
2. Knowledge of provincial labour legislation and regulations
3. Knowledge of collective bargaining, traditional negotiations and interest-based negotiations
4. Ability to work independently and demonstrate leadership in adversarial situations
5. Ability to effectively exchange information
6. Negotiation, mediation and conflict resolution skills
7. Training and facilitation skills
8. Analytical and problem-solving skills
9. Relationship building skills

Conditions of Employment

Conditions of Acceptance

1. Willing to accept travel throughout Newfoundland and Labrador
2. Willing to accept overtime
3. Willing to use private vehicle for business related travel

Information for Applicants

For more information about this opportunity please call: Susan Whitten, Director Labour Relations at (709) 729-0936 or ***email_hidden***.