Labour Relations Specialist

The Durham District School Board acknowledges that many Indigenous Nations have longstanding relationships, both historic and modern, with the territories upon which our school board and schools are located. Today, this area is home to many Indigenous peoples from across Turtle Island. We acknowledge that the Durham Region forms a part of the traditional and treaty territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, the Mississauga Peoples and the treaty territory of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. It is on these ancestral and treaty lands that we teach, live and learn.

This statement was co-created in partnership with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island.

This posting is for 2 permanent current vacant positions

Reporting to the Manager of Labour Relations, the Labour Relations Specialist provides expert advice, guidance, and support on labour and employee relations matters across the Durham District School Board. The incumbent plays a key role in fostering positive labour-management relationships by interpreting and administering collective agreements, supporting grievance resolution processes, preparing for and participating in mediation and arbitration proceedings, and contributing to the collective bargaining process. Additionally, the incumbent conducts employee and labour relations investigations, delivers training and education to leaders and staff, monitors developments in labour legislation and arbitration jurisprudence, and partners with management, unions, legal counsel, and other stakeholders to support compliance, mitigate risk, and promote an equitable and inclusive workplace.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent the organization in grievance meetings with the Unions and Federations including working with leadership to research and formulate responses;
• Work proactively to understand and resolve issues prior to formal grievances, where applicable;
• Work with legal counsel and leadership to prepare for mediation and arbitration hearings and participate in hearings as a representative of the organization;
• Provide advice and support on the interpretation and implementation of collective agreements, labour and employment legislation, and relevant policies and procedures;
• Act as a staff resource to the labour management committees;
• Work with the Manager of Labour Relations to prepare for Collective Bargaining including research, costing, drafting and analysis of bargaining proposals, drafting language and final settlements, implementation of the Collective Agreement, and providing relevant training on negotiated changes.
• Act as spokesperson and/or key member of bargaining team(s) as determined by the Manager of Labour Relations;
• Develop and present in-house training seminars and workshops on various matters related to employment and labour relations;
• Conduct employee and labour relations investigations, partnering with leaders, unions, and key stakeholders to resolve workplace concerns;
• Remain current on legislation, arbitration outcomes, and Ministry of Education requirements as it relates to the education sector, including conducting research, preparing presentations and delivering training to the organization;
• Other duties as assigned.

• University degree in related field (e.g. Industrial Relations, Human Resources) with five years labour relations experience in a complex, unionized environment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience;
• Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation would be an asset

• Sound knowledge of employment and labour law;
• Successful labour relations experience including experience participating in collective bargaining;
• Demonstrated knowledge of labour relations, (grievance and arbitration process), negotiations and employment legislation (Labour Relations Act, Employment Standards Act, Ontario Human Rights Code, Occupational Health and Safety Act, etc.);
• Highly developed analytical/interpretive and problem solving skills;
• Proven ability to communicate effectively (both orally and in writing) to a variety of audiences (e.g. management, union representatives, colleagues);
• Strong facilitation, conflict resolution, problem solving, negotiation and presentation skills;
• Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize;

Equity and Inclusion

The Durham District School Board recognizes Indigenous rights are distinct. In the exercise of those rights, Indigenous staff and students shall not be subjected to actions with the aim or effect of depriving these distinct rights.

The DDSB is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. We are committed to reflecting the diverse communities we serve and encourage applications from candidates who bring a variety of experiences and backgrounds. We adhere to fair, transparent hiring practices and are committed to equity and accessibility throughout the recruitment process. If you need accommodation during the application process, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Ignite Your Career

At the Durham District School Board (DDSB), we inspire the lives of over 80,000 students. Our diverse communities are places where your impact will be felt every day.

Picture yourself in a workplace where your ideas are celebrated, and your growth is a top priority. Here, collaboration and innovation thrive. Whether you're directly inspiring young minds or providing essential support behind the scenes, your contributions will have a meaningful impact on students and the community.

We welcome you to bring your experiences, your passions, and your talents to our inclusive community. Join us and be part of a team that values your well-being as much as your contributions. Ignite your potential at DDSB and help us make a difference, one student at a time.