Labor Relations Specialist; Department Of Labor Relations - Shakman Exempt

OVERVIEW

The Cook County Department of Labor Relations seeks a Labor Relations Specialist to support contract negotiations and labor-related matters on behalf of County management. Reporting to the Senior Labor Relations Specialist, this role acts as a liaison with union representatives, assists in developing negotiation strategies, and serves as a spokesperson during bargaining sessions. Key responsibilities include preparing proposals, maintaining negotiation records, coordinating contract implementation, and ensuring compliance with wage and labor agreements.

The position also provides support to legal counsel and leadership on complex labor issues and maintains detailed records and databases related to past agreements and grievances.

Cook County offers great benefits and the chance to participate in a strong tradition of public service. Cook County is home to more than five million residents, roughly 45% of Illinois' population. Cook County Government provides a range of vital services and programs that enhance the quality of life for residents across the region. These services range from health care to urban planning.

Cook County is committed to empowering its employees to bring our constituents the best that public service has to offer.

WHY PURSUE A CAREER WITH COOK COUNTY?

In addition to providing employees with a challenging, rewarding environment for career and personal growth, we are proud to also offer some of the best benefits in the public sphere, including:

• Top Tier Medical Benefits:
  Medical Plans, Prescription Drug Benefit, Dental Plans, Vision Plan and 7 Additional voluntary benefit plans
• Flexible Teleworking Options
• Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; Minimum of 10 vacation days annually; Up to 4 personal days annually; and Paid sick leave)
• Pension Plan
• Financial Support Programs and Resources:
  Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts - Dependent Day Care, Commuter Benefits, Discounted Parking, PSLF Eligibility, Deferred Compensation and Education Tuition Stipend
• Health/Wellness Perks:
  Flexible Spending Accounts-Health Care, Employee Assistance Program and MyHealth Connections wellness program.

SNAPSHOT OF COOK COUNTY

• Serves 5.28 million residents of Chicago and its inner suburbs
  • 2nd largest county in America
  • Larger than 27 states
• Cook County employs over 22,000 employees who work in a variety of skilled jobs and trades.
  • Nearly 80% unionized workforce
  • 15 unions represented
  • 63 separate collective bargaining agreements
• Highway - Cook County maintains almost 600 miles of roads and highways.
• Land - Cook County assesses the value of more than 1.5 million parcels of taxable land and collects and distributes tax funds as a service for local government taxing bodies.
• Safety - Cook County provides vital services to local government, from conducting elections in suburban areas to offering 911 services in unincorporated areas and municipalities.

LOCATION

Located in the Loop District of downtown Chicago, one of the most formidable business districts in the world, the area has an astounding number of cultural foundations, stunning parks such as Millennial Park and Maggie Daley Park, steps away from the Chicago Riverwalk, award-winning restaurants, and plenty of shopping! In addition, Chicago is serviced by multiple bus and train lines for public transportation from the suburbs to the city, taxis are plentiful, public parking garages for motorists, and bicycle share rentals and local bike lanes for bicyclists.

ROLE SUMMARY

Under the general supervision of the Senior Labor Relations Specialist, acts as a liaison with union representatives on behalf of County management during contract negotiations and documents proceedings. Assists the Senior Labor Relations Specialist with collective bargaining agreement (CBA) issues and collaborates with the Senior Labor Relations Specialist and the Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer/Director of Labor Relations (DCHRO/DLR), or designee, in determining negotiation positions, policies, and strategies.

Under the general supervision of the Senior Labor Relations Specialist, serves as a spokesperson for the County during contract negotiations and impact bargaining sessions. Coordinates and attends strategy meetings and negotiation sessions and assists in the compilation of County negotiation proposals. Documents all management and union negotiation proposals, maintains control of all tentative agreements in negotiations, and works with counsel and union representatives to compile union contracts.

Prepares union contracts and wage scales for Board approval and directs the implementation of wage components with appropriate County departments and offices as necessary. Provides assistance to Labor Counsel, the Assistant State's Attorneys, outside counsel, union representatives, and other entities regarding various labor-related issues, including wage scale and rate implementation, impact bargaining, contract implementation, and dues deductions. Maintains databases,…