Labor and Employment Counsel

SUMMARY:

The Labor & Employment Counsel provides direct legal and strategic support to the Providence Public School District (PPSD) on all matters related to labor and employment law, collective bargaining, and employee relations. Working under the direction of the Executive Director of Labor Relations and Employee Services, this position plays a critical role in negotiating, interpreting, and enforcing collective bargaining agreements; representing the district in administrative and arbitration proceedings;

and providing day-to-day legal guidance on labor and personnel matters to school and central office administrators.

The Counsel ensures that labor and employment practices across the district are compliant, equitable, and aligned with the district’s mission to recruit, support, and retain world-class educators and staff.

Qualifications - Required:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the Rhode Island Bar (or eligibility for immediate admission upon hire).
• Extensive knowledge of state and federal employment and labor laws, including collective bargaining statutes.
• Exceptional legal writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with unionized employee groups.
• Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive matters with discretion.

Qualifications - Preferred:

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in labor and employment law, preferably within the public or education sector.
• Experience negotiating and administering collective bargaining agreements.
• Experience conducting arbitration or administrative hearings.
• Demonstrated success working in a collaborative, problem-solving environment.
• Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Full job description and list of duties/responsibilities at: https://provi