Labor Relations Associate (Temp to Perm)

Job Title: Labor Relations Associate (Temp to Perm)
Department: Human Resources
Location: New York City School Support Services (NYCSSS) – In-Person

Company Overview:
New York City School Support Services (NYCSSS) provides essential custodial support to the New York City Public Schools. Our team is committed to ensuring a smooth and efficient operation while fostering a positive work environment for staff. We are currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled Labor Relations Associate (Temp to Perm) to support our Labor Relations functions and contribute to our mission of delivering excellence in school operations.

Position Summary:
Under the guidance of the Human Resources Director and Legal Counsel, the Labor Relations Associate will be responsible for managing a variety of critical tasks to support labor/employee relations, including investigations, conflict resolution, policy development, and providing advice to management. This role will serve as a key intermediary between the school system, unions, and other stakeholders, ensuring the effective application and interpretation of labor agreements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Labor Relations Support: Develop and maintain an effective labor and employee relations program, addressing internal and external inquiries, complaints, and grievances, while promoting a positive work environment.
• Grievance Resolution: Hear, adjudicate, and resolve grievances filed by the collective bargaining units affiliated with NYC public schools, ensuring timely and fair outcomes.
• Employee Investigations: Conduct thorough investigations of employee complaints and disciplinary matters, ensuring all facts are gathered and analyzed for effective resolution.
• Management Consultation: Advise and consult with management on best practices for progressive discipline, conflict resolution, and fostering a respectful and compliant workplace.
• Arbitrations and Hearings: Assist with preparing for arbitrations, mediations, lawsuits, and government agency hearings related to labor and employee issues.
• Policy Development: Collaborate with leadership to anticipate and recommend updates to HR policies and procedures to address emerging needs.
• Union and Department Liaison: Act as a liaison between various unions, organizations, and Department of Education staff, ensuring smooth interpretation and application of contractual agreements.
• Investigative Reporting: Prepare comprehensive reports on investigations, offering clear conclusions and actionable recommendations.
• Settlement Negotiations: Negotiate the resolution of grievances and arbitration cases as needed, striving for fair and equitable outcomes.
• Documentation and Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records on grievances, arbitrations, complaints, disciplinary actions, and unemployment cases.
• HR Policy Guidance: Provide guidance on the interpretation of collectively bargained agreements and HR policies, consulting legal counsel when necessary.
• Union Negotiations: Participate in union negotiations as needed, supporting the organization’s goals and ensuring compliance with applicable labor laws.
• Additional Duties: Take on special projects and additional responsibilities as assigned by management.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• At least one year of experience in human resources or labor/employee relations.
• A minimum of one year of investigative experience in a professional setting.

Desired Qualifications:

• Proven ability to build strong relationships and effectively collaborate with staff, union representatives, and external stakeholders. Experience with unionized environments is a plus.
• Ability to adapt to a dynamic work environment and perform multiple roles as needed with a commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
• Strong mediation and conflict resolution skills, with the ability to guide diverse groups toward mutually beneficial outcomes.
• Excellent analytical skills to identify issues, assess risks, and propose practical solutions.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and make independent decisions in complex situations.
• Experience drafting detailed reports, especially for external audiences.
• High level of organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Certification in Human Resources is a plus.
• Bi-lingual is a plus

Additional Skills & Qualities: Compensation & Benefits:

• Hourly Rate: $22.00 - $25.00 per hour, depending on experience.
• Full-time, Temporary position with potential for permanent placement.
• 8-hour shifts with occasional mandatory overtime.

Travel Requirements: None

EEO Statement:
NYCSSS is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. We are committed to fostering a workplace that is diverse, inclusive, and free from harassment.

Additional Information:
In accordance with New York State Law, NYCSSS will not seek past salary history from any applicant. We do, however, reserve the right to inquire about salary expectations for the advertised position.

To Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their resumes, a cover letter outlining their qualifications for the position, and a short writing sample of an assignment that required research or investigation.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.00 - $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• New York, NY 10016 (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• New York, NY 10016: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $22 - $25