We have an outstanding career opportunity for a Senior Labor Counsel to join a leading Company located in the Chicago, IL surrounding area.
Salary: $128,070 -$156,530
Acts as legal advisor and counsel to the bureau chief or director in all matters related to the statutory authority and execution of powers of that department, bureau, or departments within bureau; also functions as direct legal aid to the director or bureau chief as required. Aids in interpreting the legal ramifications of proposals, policy directives and other actions planned or undertaken by department, bureau, or County Board. May serve in the capacity of Freedom of Information Officer or advise on matters related to the Freedom of Information Act. Works with the President's General Counsel and State's Attorney's Office as necessary to evaluate litigation, respond to document requests, prepare for matters related to administrative review and address opinions related to federal, state, or local legislation. Receives legal assignments from the bureau chief or director as well as the President's General Counsel. Reports to the bureau chief or director and President's General Counsel. Consults with the President's General Counsel and the Office of the State's Attorney as required.
Job Responsibilities:
- Researches pending legal issues and analyzes case law and facts.
- Reviews hearing officers' decisions in third-step employee grievance and disciplinary matters.
- Oversees matters related to the Employee Appeals Board and acts as Representative of the Employee Appeals Board.
- Counsels various departments and offices in labor relations and employment matters such as discipline, layoffs, terminations, transfers, and numerous other matters that may arise between management and employees/unions.
- Provides advice and counsel on employment-related laws and matters such as the implementation of policy and initiatives within the parameters of the CBA, grievances, arbitrations, the Family and Medical Leave Act, Affordable Care Act, and Equal Employment Opportunity laws.
- Interprets collective bargaining agreements, County policies, and applicable laws and regulations.
- Works with outside counsel and retained experts on a variety of employment-related issues.
- Assists in the evaluation, formation and implementation of policy directives affecting employees including but not limited to benefits, Workers Compensation, disability, return to work matters, work rules and personnel rules.
- Represents before various forums.
Basic Hiring Criteria:
- Five (5) years' of work experience in labor relations, human resources, litigation, or other related field.
- Licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois.
- Knowledge of the law pertaining to local and municipal government in Illinois, particularly with respect to government and the Health and Hospital System.
- Strong command of the rules of evidence, civil procedure, and trial advocacy, and the ability to effectively litigate complex labor and employment issues with minimal direction.
- Skill in working directly and independently with elected officials, department heads, outside counsel, and labor groups to develop strategy pertaining to a wide range of matters, including discipline, contract interpretation, salaries, benefits and working conditions.
- Knowledge of all applicable federal, state, county and local laws, rules and regulations including those of the Illinois Labor Relations Board and the ability to represent before various forums.
- Skill in analyzing labor agreements and appropriately interpreting the terms, conditions and intent represented therein.
- Skill in the use of diplomacy and confidentiality while communicating with arbitrators, attorneys, elected officials, department heads, management, employees, and union officials.
- Ability to communicate effectively with tact and courtesy and conduct oneself in a professional manner. Good communication skills; good negotiation skills; ability to convey information and explain or describe County policy and procedure to others.
- At the direction of the Deputy Bureau Chief, acts a liaison between the Offices Under the President and other offices and agencies.
Benefits offered vary by contract. Depending on your temporary assignment, benefits may include direct deposit, free career counseling services, 401(k), select paid holidays, short-term disability insurance, skills training, employee referral bonus, and affordable medical coverage plan, and DailyPay (in some locations). For a full description of benefits available to you, be sure to talk with your recruiter.