HR Business Partner - Labor Relations

PURPOSE STATEMENT:
The Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP) - Labor Relations will play a critical role in managing and enhancing labor relations within the organization. This position will act as a strategic partner to management and employees, ensuring compliance with labor laws and fostering a positive labor relations environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Labor Relations Management:
• Develop and implement labor relations strategies that align with the organization's goals.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for labor unions and employee representatives.
• Negotiate collective bargaining agreements and manage contract administration.
• Address and resolve labor disputes, grievances, and disciplinary actions.
• Conduct investigations related to labor relations issues and recommend appropriate actions.
• Compliance and Policy Development:
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws and regulations.
  • Develop, review, and update labor relations policies and procedures.
  • Provide guidance and training to management and employees on labor relations practices and policies.
• Employee Relations:
  • Foster a positive and collaborative work environment.
  • Conduct regular meetings with employees and management to address concerns and improve communication.
  • Implement programs and initiatives to enhance employee engagement and satisfaction.
• Strategic HR Partnership:
  • Collaborate with HR and business leaders to align labor relations strategies with business objectives.
  • Analyze labor relations trends and metrics to develop proactive solutions.
  • Participate in workforce planning and talent management initiatives.

High-Level Responsibilities in Labor Relations:

• Collective Bargaining:
  • Assist/Co-Chair negotiations for collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) with labor unions.
  • Develop strategies and proposals that align with organizational goals and comply with labor laws.
  • Manage the administration and interpretation of CBAs.
• Union Relations:
  • Serve as the primary liaison between the organization and labor unions.
  • Foster positive relationships with union representatives to ensure effective communication and collaboration.
  • Address union-related issues and concerns promptly and effectively.
• Grievance and Dispute Resolution:
  • Handle employee grievances related to labor relations, ensuring fair and timely resolution.
  • Conduct investigations into labor disputes and recommend appropriate actions.
  • Mediate conflicts between employees and management to maintain a harmonious work environment.
• Compliance and Legal Advisory:
  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws and regulations.
  • Stay updated on changes in labor legislation and advise management on their implications.
  • Develop and implement labor relations policies and procedures that comply with legal requirements.
• Employee Relations:
  • Promote a positive labor relations climate by implementing programs that enhance employee engagement and satisfaction.
  • Conduct regular meetings with employees and management to address labor relations issues and improve communication.
  • Provide training and guidance to management on labor relations best practices.
• Strategic Planning:
  • Collaborate with HR and business leaders to align labor relations strategies with overall business objectives.
  • Analyze labor relations trends and metrics to develop proactive solutions.
  • Participate in workforce planning and talent management initiatives to support organizational growth.
• Crisis Management:
  • Develop contingency plans for potential labor disputes or strikes.
  • Coordinate with legal and management teams to manage labor relations crises effectively.
  • Communicate with stakeholders during labor relations crises to ensure transparency and maintain trust.

OTHER FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Complies with all safety rules and cooperates in the fullest in the promotion of safety and safe work habits, to include the reporting of any unsafe conditions or acts. Maintains all EH&S training on a current basis.
• Complies with all applicable corporate and Hawaii Gas policies and procedures.
• Maintains assigned work area and equipment in a clean, orderly and safe manner; performs housekeeping duties as required and/or instructed. Works in a safe and responsible manner.
• Performs all other related duties as instructed by manager.

Required Education and/or Work Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Labor Relations, Business Administration, or at least five (5) years of experience in labor relations or a similar HR role.
• Strong knowledge of labor laws, collective bargaining, and contract administration.
• Excellent negotiation, conflict resolution, and communication skills.
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with labor unions and employee representatives.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Preferred Education and/or Work Experience:

• Master's degree in Human Resources or related field.
• Required Licensure, Certification, Registration or Designation:
• A valid Hawaii driver's license.
• Access to a reliable mode of transportation.

Preferred Licensure, Certification, Registration or Designation:

• SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification.
• Labor Relations or related certification.