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Montclair State University · 2 weeks ago

Director of Labor Relations

Montclair, NJ

Full-time

Hybrid

Lead/Staff, Director/Executive

$145K/yr - $170K/yr

5+ years exp

Montclair State University is seeking a Director of Labor Relations to lead its labor relations efforts and oversee collective bargaining agreements. The role includes providing guidance on contract administration, dispute resolution, and fostering collaboration between University leadership and labor representatives.

EducationHigher EducationUniversities

Hiring Manager

Monica Tejeda

Responsibilities

Supports the development and execution of a comprehensive labor relations strategy that aligns with the University’s mission and promotes a positive workplace culture

Serves as a key contributor in collective bargaining negotiations, assisting in contract discussions with unions and coordinating with University leadership and state labor relations officials

Provides guidance to University leadership on labor relations trends, policy development, and strategies for maintaining productive labor-management relationships

Leads the Labor Relations team to ensure effective contract administration, grievance resolution, and compliance with labor agreements

Collaborates with HR, legal counsel, and University leadership to address labor-related challenges and implement strategies to mitigate labor disputes

Is the point-person for interpretation, application, and administration of collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) for all University bargaining units, including AFT, CWA, IFPTE, NJSOLEA, NJLESA, and PBA-SLEU

Advises managers and HR Business Partners on labor contract provisions, employee rights, and grievance handling

Ensures fair and consistent application of CBAs, working with University managers to address labor-related concerns and performance management issues

Prepares and reviews proposals, counterproposals, and contract modifications in consultation with key stakeholders

Collaborates with internal human resources departments to ensure departmental initiatives support and align with labor contracts and provide recommendations for training and development and supports employee relations initiatives

Supports the grievance process, including responding to grievances, conducting fact-finding, and preparing University positions for hearings, arbitrations, and mediations

Represents the University in labor disputes, arbitration proceedings, and administrative hearings as needed

Assists University leadership in resolving complex labor disputes and compliance issues

Develops and delivers training programs for managers and supervisors on labor relations best practices, contract interpretation, and performance management

Ensures compliance with federal and state labor laws, including NLRA, FLSA, FMLA, ADA, and Title VII, as well as University policies and CBAs

Stays informed on labor relations trends, regulatory changes, and emerging issues, advising leadership on potential impacts to the University

Conducts labor relations audits and assessments to identify areas for improvement and ensure best practices in labor management

Builds and maintains collaborative relationships with union leaders, University administrators, and external labor relations professionals

Works closely with the Associate Vice President of Organizational and Talent Development to align labor relations strategies with University-wide talent development initiatives

Collaborates with HR teams to ensure labor relations initiatives support broader organizational goals related to employee engagement, workforce planning, and institutional excellence

Qualification

Labor relations experienceLabor lawsLeadership experienceAnalytical skillsWorkday HCMConflict resolution skillsCommunication skillsHuman Resources CertificationExperience in higher educationExperience in unionized environmentMicrosoft Office proficiency

Required

Bachelor's degree from accredited college or university in labor relations, organizational development, human resources, public administration or a related field

Minimum of five (5) years of progressive labor relations experience

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills with the ability to manage complex labor relations issues

Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization

Proven leadership experience, including managing and developing labor relations teams

Extensive knowledge of federal and state labor laws including but not limited to: NLRA, FLSA, FMLA, ADA, Title VII

Willingness to travel to off-campus meetings

Ability to work flexible hours and to have a strong physical presence on campus. Some remote work flexibility available

Preferred

Master's degree and/or Juris Doctorate from accredited college or university in labor relations organizational development, human resources, business administration or a related field or juris doctorate

Experience in a higher education environment, preferable at a public institution

Experience in a unionized environment

Experience with Workday HCM

Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, specifically Excel and the ability to quickly learn new applications

Human Resources Certification (example: SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP)