Senior Labor Relations Specialist

Overview Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is a leading national research university and the State of New Jersey's preeminent comprehensive public institution of higher education. It is one of the largest employers in New Jersey and is ranked on Forbes' list of America's Best Large Employers for two consecutive years, holding #64 of 500 employers and #1 New Jersey employer on the 2023 list. Rutgers is committed to a safe, diverse, and respectful workplace, offers employment opportunities for military veterans, and ensures accessibility and accommodation for individuals with disabilities. Posting Summary The Senior Labor Relations Specialist will work under the Associate Vice President and Deputy General Counsel and the Associate Vice President for Academic Labor Relations. The position is responsible for assisting in the negotiation, interpretation, and administration of collective bargaining agreements for Rutgers University. Responsibilities Participate in collective negotiations and present proposals, design and deliver workshops on employee and labor relations subjects, and develop and administer University employee and labor relations policies and procedures. Assist in presenting proposals at collective negotiations sessions and research and prepare proposals for negotiations. Lead, guide, instruct, and assign work to Labor Relations Specialists as authorized by senior leadership. Resolve complex employee‑supervisor‑union related issues. Advise supervisors and employees on labor and employee relations matters. Conduct research on existing, new, and anticipated legislation. Provide guidance on grievance procedures. Collaborate with University Human Resources to recommend new and existing HR policies. Work regularly with the Office of General Counsel on grievance, disciplinary arbitration, PERC proceedings, and contract interpretation issues. Demonstrate commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all duties. Qualifications Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in a related field and at least five (5) years of progressively more complex experience in labor relations or human resources in a unionized environment. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of employment and labor law issues. Proficiency in database and spreadsheet software. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Preferred Qualifications: Advanced degree or law degree. Prior experience in higher education or the public sector. Experience in employee or labor relations in an academic medical center or healthcare facility. Experience costing proposals and wages in labor negotiations. Benefits Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage. Paid vacation, holidays, and leave programs. Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax‑deferred savings options. Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable). Life insurance coverage. Employee discount programs. Location Rutgers University – New Brunswick Campus, Downtown New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ. Pre-employment Screening All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings. Immunization Requirements Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy, if employment commences during Flu Season, the University may require proof of vaccination for Seasonal Influenza unless an exemption is granted. Failure to provide proof may result in rescission of the offer or disciplinary action up to termination. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Rutgers University is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all qualified applicants to apply. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability, military service, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other category protected by law. For additional information, see the Non‑Discrimination Statement at #J-18808-Ljbffr