Labor Relations Representative

Michigan Corrections Organization SEIU Local 526M Labor Relations Representative Based in Okemos, MI

Work

Location

4225 Okemos Rd., Okemos, MI 48864

The Michigan Corrections Organization (MCO) SEIU Local 526M represents approximately 5,500 Corrections Officers and Forensic Security Assistants throughout Michigan.

MCO is looking for an organized individual with attention to detail. Qualified applicants should be flexible and willing to accommodate occasional extended or non-traditional work hours as needed. The Labor Relations Representative represents MCO and its members in contractual and civil service matters. Their work will be to receive, investigate, resolve and handle member grievances, appeals or arbitrations. The Labor Relations Representative will interact with leaders and members concerning contractual issues with advice and support.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Intake new grievance/arbitration cases including investigation of facts, conducting witness interviews, procuring supporting documents, drafting summaries, document review, and scheduling;
• Conduct legal research and answer questions for Union officials to help them understand the contract;
• Execute the steps of the grievance process;
• Provide assistance at meetings and hearings;
• Manage the preparation and execution of arbitrations, and present cases before arbitrators;
• Ability to write legal briefs on various issues including arbitration closing arguments;
• Work with other staff to organize and maintain a wide variety of legal files, records, reports and provide logistical and meeting support;
• Assist members with support and referrals for non-contractual issues;
• Coordinate with the other staff for New Employee Orientation (NEO) presentations;
• Train and develop stewards in grievance and representation matters;
• Assist in negotiations with units of state government;
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgement to advance the goals of the Union and its members;

• Thorough knowledge of the Union, its goals, strategies and structure;

• Ability to communicate and work effectively with the Department of Corrections and Department of Health and Human Services;

• Dependable, punctual and able to maintain a high level of confidentiality;

• Ability to present analysis of grievances including effective oral, written and visual presentation skills;

• Ability to communicate orally and in writing in diverse situations before multiple leaders, constituents or groups;

• Thorough knowledge of, and experience in, labor law principles, labor/arbitration, practices and terminology;

• Ability to think and act independently with extensive discretion in matters involving application of law and policy;

• Attention to detail, proficiency in working with spreadsheets, databases or case management software;

• Demonstrated capacity to manage and prioritize competing deadlines simultaneously;

• Ability to conduct an arbitration including opening statement, closing statements, direct and cross examination and brief writing;

• J.D. degree strongly preferred or a B.A. in related field of law, labor relations or HR, or has the equivalent experience;

• Availability and willingness to travel throughout Michigan and to work occasional extended or non-traditional work hours as needed.

• Supervision: This position directly reports to the Executive Director.