The Deputy Commissioner of Labor Relations assists in managing Erie County's labor relations program, working under the general direction of the Commissioner of Labor Relations. This position supports the development and implementation of labor relations initiatives, policies, and collective bargaining agreements across County departments. The incumbent has authority to act on behalf of the Commissioner when needed and provides leadership over clerical staff and project teams within the department.
The individual in this position will:
- Develop and Manage Labor Relations Programs: Oversee programs aimed at fostering effective employee-management relationships across County departments.
- Participate in Collective Bargaining: Contribute to contract negotiations, preparing background material, and analyzing data related to salaries, fringe benefits, and employment practices.
- Assist in Grievance and Dispute Resolution: Aid in the resolution of employee grievances and advise departments on the interpretation of contract terms, personnel policies, and discipline procedures.
- Oversee Key Labor Relations Projects: Supervise projects integral to the County’s labor relations program, including wage and benefit surveys, supervisory training, and union title allocations.
This is an FLSA Exempt, at-will position, meaning it is not eligible for overtime pay due to its executive and administrative responsibilities and may be terminated at any time, with or without cause or prior notice, for any legally permissible reason.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:
- Knowledge of Public Personnel Administration and Labor-Management Practices: Demonstrates a thorough understanding of personnel administration and labor-management principles, especially within public sector environments.
- Understanding of Labor Laws: Knowledgeable in Federal labor laws, Taylor Law, and Civil Service Law.
- Analytical and Communication Skills: Skilled in preparing reports and studies and in communicating effectively, both orally and in writing, with management, employees, and union representatives.
- Interpersonal Skills: Exhibits tact, initiative, and resourcefulness in handling sensitive matters and maintaining productive relationships across County departments.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with a Bachelor’s degree and one of the following:
- Option A: A Master’s degree in Business Administration, Labor Relations, or a closely related field and two (2) years of labor relations experience, including one (1) year in the public sector.
- Option B: Three (3) years of labor relations experience, including one (1) year in the public sector.
- Option C: An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of Options A and B.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Juris Doctor (JD): A JD with one (1) year of litigation experience, ideally involving labor law, employment law, or related matters, is preferred and considered highly advantageous in this role.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
- Starting Salary: The starting salary for a new employee would be $115,602. The salary for a current employee may be higher.
- Health and Dental Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage is provided through the Labor Management Health Fund, with the County covering 85% of premiums. Health insurance will transition to Univera Insurance next year. Multiple dental plans are available to meet employees’ needs.
- Paid Time Off (PTO): This position includes 12 paid holidays and 35 days of PTO per year, as well as 15 sick days annually.
- Retirement Plan: Membership in the New York State and Local Retirement System (NYSLRS), offering retirement benefits based on years of service and final average salary, with multiple retirement plans tailored to employee categories.
- Deferred Compensation: Employees may participate in a 457(b) deferred compensation plan, allowing pre-tax contributions toward retirement savings.
RESIDENCE REQUIREMENT:
Candidates must be residents of Erie County at the time of appointment.
APPLY TODAY:
If interested and meet the above qualifications, please send a resume to:
David Nitsche
Department of Personnel
95 Franklin Street
Room 604
Buffalo, New York 14202
david.nitsche@erie.gov
Erie County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to workplace diversity.