Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service.

Deputy Executive Director (DED) Administration under the direction of the Executive Director/CEO is responsible for carrying out the policies and programs of Metra. The DED Administration assumes a leadership role in planning, developing, organizing and directing the administrative activities at Metra. The DED Administration is responsible for complex direction for all areas related to administration and its programs acting on behalf of the Executive Director/CEO.

Labor Relations is charged with the negotiation and administration of 17 collective bargaining agreements between Metra and its employees represented by 14 unions. These responsibilities include representing Metra in arbitration with respect to minor disputes and the ongoing negotiations meant to reach amicable settlements and thus avoid a major dispute as defined by the Railway Labor Act with each of these unions.

Reporting to the Director Labor Relations, the Lead Labor Relations Specialist will provide professional support in the administration of labor agreements, policy, and the contract employee discipline policy including assisting or serving as the Lead Discipline Officer, conducting disciplinary investigations convened under collective bargaining agreements, and advising management on the proper interpretation and application of agreements and policy.

The Primary Duties include: Handles the most complex grievance and disciplinary hearings including researching issues, conducting investigations and hearings, writing Findings Reports, and assessing discipline. Collect, analyze, and report on discipline policy data related to labor and railroad trends including charges, frequency, and initial and actual discipline assessed. Management/update the Discipline data base, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Metrics and ensuring all grievances, decisions, discipline, and terminations are maintained in the system. Assist with other administrative project as assigned. Provide expert guidance to departments on the proper interpretation of collective bargaining agreements and policy, research and prepare well-written documentation of findings, and defend Metra's position related to questions or claims. Develop and maintain cooperative relationships with union representatives that facilitate the effective resolution of issues, sustain a foundation for constructive dialogue, and produce the best possible results for Metra. Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Final salary will be determined in part by the qualifications of the selected candidate.

Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

1. Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations, Industrial Relations or related field OR in lieu of specified degree must have a combination of experience and education that equals four years in Labor Relations.
2. In addition to #1, must have at least seven years of labor relations experience that includes contract negotiations, contract administration, and/or administrative hearings.
3. Considerable knowledge of union contract administration and disciplinary investigations.
4. Considerable knowledge contract drafting and administration.
5. Considerable knowledge of principles and practices of labor negotiation and arbitration.
6. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
7. Strong presentation and negotiation skills.
8. Strong research, analytical, organizational, and critical thinking skills.
9. Effective interpersonal skills for dealing constructively in an adversarial environment as well as with all staff levels.
10. Proficient in Microsoft 365, with emphasis on Word, Excel, and Outlook. Database skills desirable.
11. Ability to develop constructive working relationships with managers and union officials.
12. Ability to provide leadership to less-experienced staff.
13. Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a demanding environment.
14. Ability to work with sensitive information while maintaining strict confidentiality.
15. Ability to understand, interpret, and apply laws, rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and labor/management agreements of a complex nature.
16. Must be able to operate a vehicle.
17. Must be willing to travel within and outside of Metra's 6-county region.

Preferred:

1. Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations, Industrial Relations or related field

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees' use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for pre-employment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.