Labor/Employee Relations Specialist I/ II/ III (Non-competitive Progression)

Note: This is a three-level grade/salary code progression position. Selectees will be placed in the position at the level commensurate to their experience (3C, 4B or 4D). Candidate selected at either may advance non-competitively to the next higher level(s) upon successful completion of qualification requirements.

If selected at the NF3C level, the incumbent may progress non-competitively to the NF-4B level HR position assigned to a higher pay range (i.e. salary code 4B, etc.) upon the completion of two year in the training capacity and the completion of the NF-3C qualification requirements/training. An incumbent may not advance to the higher NF-4B level position with less than one year of experience at the NF-3C level. Noncompetitive progression to the NF4D level is outlined under the same requirements after the completion of the NF4B requirements.

Job Summary:

Under the guidance and supervision of a Labor/Employee Relations Specialist or Labor/Employee Relations Manager, responsible for providing technical support within the Labor/Employee Relations functional area, including but not limited to: employment laws, employee relations, and dispute resolution to ensure compliance with applicable federal policies and regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Executes work and on-the-job training as outlined in assigned IDP (Individual Development Plan) as the first level development position that performs work within the framework, guidance and instructions within the Labor Employee Relations disciplines to include the following:

• Performs LER related projects and assignments designed to develop communication, facilitation, and planning competencies.

• May assist in resolving employee-management disputes, inquiries, and coordinate grievance procedures regarding worker complaints. May also offer input on issues such as wages and salaries, non-wage benefits or management practices.

• Assists higher level LER Specialists and Managers in developing and administering short-term and long-term goals, objectives and/or projects related to LER work.

• Assists higher level HR Managers and LER Specialists primarily in the areas of employee relations and may assist other HR Specialists in areas of staffing, compensation, benefits and training in accordance with the IPD.

• Establishes and maintains effective relationships to include the management of and resolution to conflict – including the day-to-day use of non-traditional collaborative approaches and providing day-to-day guidance and consultation to management on a variety of employee relations matters.

• Provides advice and assistance to NEXCOM exempt and nonexempt associates in the areas of discipline, grievances, counseling and related functions. Answers and resolves inquiries regarding interpretation of policy/procedures as well as individual problems and situations relating to LER.

• Supports employee relations programs in matters related to conduct, performance, attendance, and dispute resolution; providing guidance and consultation to management on a variety of employee relations matters.

• Researches employee relations technical case laws, or questions for LER Specialists, such as applicable decisions bearing on various aspects employee relations cases such as Merit System Protection Board (MSPB), Executive Orders, Instructions, regulations, and changes or updates to employment laws. Maintains files of decisions and precedents for future reference.

• Compiles and assembles data for use by LER Specialists. Compiles and maintains current statistical information on employee relations activity in NEXCOM activities, i.e. associate data reports, discipline reports, formal and informal grievance activity, causes, issues and resolutions. Prepares reports summarizing major findings and conclusions.

• Carries out employee relations assignments to include non-adverse and adverse disciplinary actions and indebtedness cases. Prepares and maintains open employee relations case files. Ensures files are complete and up to date. Maintains records of adverse and non-adverse disciplinary actions proposed and taken throughout NEXCOM Enterprise. Prepare reports regarding same, i.e. charge, proposed, decision by activity/district.

• Records and maintains current and historical records. Assists with ensuring official case files are properly maintained in accordance with regulatory guidance to support proposed or actions and when necessary assists with responding in writing to appeals and/or prepares documents for hearings.

• Develops and conducts training sessions for manager/supervisors regarding LER matters, as needed.

• Reports to a designated supervisor. Assignments are reviewed while in progress and upon completion accuracy, completeness, technical adequacy, and conformance to specifications and timeliness.

• May engage in other HR functional areas as required, and may act as a liaison between management and employees to relay information relative to LER.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Incumbent may progress non-competitively to PD 3682 Labor and Employee Relations Specialist II, NF-04 (SC 4B) upon the completion of qualification requirements and training within a 2-year timeframe; advancement is not permitted with less than 1 year in current position.

A total of 4 years experience consisting of the following:

GENERAL EXPERIENCE: Three years of experience that involved analyzing problems to identify significant factors, gathering pertinent data, and recognizing solutions; planning and organizing work; and communicating effectively orally and in writing.

OR SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE: 1-year academic study above the high school level may be substituted for 9 months of experience, up to maximum of a 4-year bachelors degree in human resources or a related field for general experience.

AND SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: 1 year of responsible experience that provided knowledge of the methods and procedures for performing a variety of tasks and services in support of Labor & Employee Relation programs or similar work that provided the ability to execute the requirements of the position.