Senior Labor Relations Specialist; Department Of Labor Relations - Shakman Exempt

OVERVIEW

The Cook County Department of Labor Relations is seeking a Senior Labor Relations Specialist to support labor relations functions across the County. Reporting to the Deputy Director of Labor Relations, this role supervises Labor Relations Specialists and represents County management during contract negotiations, impact bargaining sessions, and arbitration matters. The position partners with department heads to shape negotiation strategies, supports Labor Counsel and external attorneys on arbitration and labor disputes, and oversees the preparation and Board approval of union contracts and wage scales.

The position also ensures the accurate implementation of wage agreements and provides expert guidance on complex labor relations matters.

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.

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 9 Additional voluntary benefit plans
• Flexible Teleworking Options
• Generous, Flexible Paid Time Off (13 paid designated holidays; Minimum of 15 vacation 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.
• SALARY RANGE: $124,878 - $137,837/YEARLY

• 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.

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.

Under the general supervision of the Deputy Director of Labor Relations, supervises the Labor Relations Specialists and serves as a spokesperson on behalf of County management during contract negotiations and impact bargaining sessions, documenting proceedings. Collaborates with department heads to identify issues to be addressed through collective bargaining and coordinates first-line management meetings to formulate negotiation strategies. Coordinates assistance for the Labor Counsel, the State's Attorney's Office, and outside counsel on matters related to arbitration and unfair labor practice charges.

Oversees the preparation of union contracts…