Labour and Employee Relations Specialist

POSITION:             Labour & Employee Relations Specialist
REPORTS TO:       Sr. Manager, Labour & Employee Relations
DEPARTMENT:      Human Resources
LOCATION:            North Bay
REFERENCE:       800-174-26
SALARY:               $88,868 - $104,546

WHO WE ARE:
Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC) is an Agency of the Province of Ontario that provides efficient and vital transportation services. We are a modern, forward-thinking organization focused on providing safe and reliable transportation services. ONTC has a rich history of over 120 years and strong connections to the communities we serve. With over 1100 skilled professionals, we work together to enhance transportation services and ensure that they are sustainable for future generations.  We offer a dynamic workplace culture, along with a competitive salary, excellent benefit package, a defined benefit pension plan, paid vacation, paid personal leave days and discounted transportation on our bus and passenger rail services. 

ACCOUNTABILITY STATEMENT:
The Labour & Employee Relations Specialist provides expert guidance to HR teams on labour and employee relations matters, ensuring compliance and positive workplace relationships. Responsibilities include interpreting collective agreements, conducting case law research, supporting grievance arbitration, and contributing to the collective bargaining process.

 MAJOR DUTIES/ RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensure compliance with contractual timelines and prepare evidence for related meetings in collaboration with managers and the Senior Manager, Labour & Employee Relations.
• Collect and summarize case law research to support grievance resolutions.
• Collaborate with unions and management to resolve grievances early and assist in preparing documentation for meetings.
• Gather information from HRBPs and management for grievance meetings, take accurate notes, and compile all related documentation.
• Assist in planning and preparation for collective bargaining, including gathering compensation data and drafting proposals.
• Attend bargaining sessions with the Senior Manager, record minutes, and prepare updated collective agreements following negotiations.
• Provide guidance on employment matters affecting bargaining unit employees, ensuring fair and consistent application of discipline.
• Research and recommend best practices on leaves, performance, disciplinary matters, and legislative interpretation.
• Support HR teams by reviewing policies and assisting in the development and delivery of labour and employee relations training.
• Maintain trackers and databases for grievances, discipline, and investigations; analyze trends and prepare reports.
• Participate in Labour Management meetings and take and distribute minutes.
• Assist in educating management teams on negotiated contract changes.
• Prepare documentation and assist in investigations, arbitration, and tribunal hearings, instructing legal counsel as required.
• Gather information on workplace misconduct, harassment complaints, and tribunal submissions.

REQUIREMENTS:

• University degree in Human Resources, Labour Relations, or Paralegal Studies.
• Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of progressive HR experience with demonstrated success in labour relations, including grievance handling, collective bargaining, and conflict resolution.
• Working knowledge of pensions, employee benefits, and workers’ compensation 
• Strong understanding of HR functions, policies, and practices.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) for preparing bargaining documents, reports, and presentations.
• Experience with HRIS, labour relations case management systems, and grievance tracking databases.
• Skilled in data analysis and reporting tools (e.g., Excel pivot tables, Power BI) to identify trends and support decision-making.
• Comfortable using virtual collaboration platforms (MS Teams, Zoom) for meetings and negotiations.
• Valid driver’s license considered an asset.
• Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders and union representatives.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret collective agreements, legislation, and legal precedents.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare briefs, reports, and presentations.
• Proven ability to manage timelines and priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Collaborative leadership style with the ability to influence outcomes and manage difficult conversations effectively.
• Commitment to health and safety.

BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: The successful candidate will need to pass the following clearances: criminal record check, employment references and education verification.

CLOSING DATE: January 15, 2025, no later than 11:59 p.m. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Qualified individuals are invited to apply in writing with a current covering letter and resume (provided in one document), stating reference name and number. Visit our career website to apply: https://www.ontarionorthland.ca/en/careers

At Ontario Northland, we are committed to employment equity.  We value the unique skills and experiences each person brings to Ontario Northland and invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from Indigenous peoples, racialized persons, women, persons with disabilities, and persons who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+.

Ontario Northland will provide accommodation to ensure barrier-free employment in accordance with the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. You can request accommodation at any stage of the hiring process. If you require an accommodation, please contact Human Resources.

Les offres d'emploi sont également disponibles en français. Visitez notre site Web sur les carrières ou appelez le 1-800-363-7512, poste 394 pour plus de renseignements.