Specialist, Labour Relations

Come make your difference in communities across Canada, where authenticity, trust and making connections is valued – as we shape the future of Canadian retail, together.

At Loblaw Companies Limited, we succeed through collaboration and commitment and set a high bar for ourselves and those around us. Whether you are just starting your career, re-entering the workforce, or looking for a new job, this is where you belong.

Note:
While this posting is based out of Edmonton, we may also consider qualified candidates based out of Alberta, British Columbia or Saskatchewan.

The Labour Relations Specialist is responsible for interpreting collective agreements, managing grievances, conducting workplace investigations, and supporting the business in navigating multi-jurisdictional employment laws. This role builds strong partnerships with managers, union representatives, and internal stakeholders to ensure consistent, fair, and compliant labour relations practices. The Specialist also provides analytical insights, supports bargaining preparation, and contributes to proactive LR strategies that enhance workplace relationships and reduce risk.

• Interpret collective agreement language and provide guidance on contract administration and workplace issues.
• Apply multi-jurisdictional labour and employment laws to workplace situations.
• Manage the full lifecycle of routine to moderately complex grievances.
• Prepare grievance responses, conduct fact-finding, and maintain complete case documentation.
• Identify workplace trends and emerging issues using grievance and operational data.
• Prepare arbitration files, including evidence gathering and witness coordination.
• Collaborate with legal counsel and recommend case strategies and settlement options.
• Conduct structured workplace investigations, including interviews and evidence review.
• Lead more complex or sensitive investigations as experience grows.
• Research comparator data and support costing and preparation of bargaining proposals.
• Prepare bargaining documentation, summaries, and background materials.
• Negotiate routine grievance settlements and support negotiations on more complex issues.
• Build trust-based relationships with managers, union representatives, and internal partners.
• Coach leaders on documentation, performance management, and application of collective agreement provisions.
• Deliver training or guidance related to LR practices, legislative changes, or emerging trends.
• Analyze legislative developments and assess operational impacts.
• Support the creation of proactive communications, tools, and training materials.

• Post-secondary education in HR, Labour Relations, Law, Business, or related fields. 2–3 years of Labour Relations or HR experience, preferably in a unionized environment, with strong knowledge of employment and labour legislation (e.g. employment standards, human rights legislation, labour codes) and collective agreement administration.
• Experience managing grievances or investigations.
• Ability to interpret contract language and apply it effectively to workplace situations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including negotiation and influence.
• Ability to build professional, trust-based relationships with union and management stakeholders.

Our commitment to Sustainability and Social Impact is an essential part of the way we do business, and we focus our attention on areas where we can have the greatest impact. Our approach to sustainability and social impact is based on three pillars – Environment, Sourcing and Community – and we are constantly looking for ways to demonstrate leadership in these important areas.

Our CORE Values – Care, Ownership, Respect and Excellence – guide all our decision-making and come to life through…