Employee and Labor Relations Advisor (StratAdvsr1, Exempt BU-P)

Position DescriptionOriginally posted in January 2024, this position remains open until filled. While previous applicants need not reapply, first consideration will be given to those who apply by May 17, 2024.Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking a passionate and experienced Employee and Labor Relations Advisor (ELR) to join our team. As the ELR Advisor, you will play a pivotal role in fostering a collaborative and productive work environment for all SPU employees. You will be a trusted advisor, providing expert guidance and support on a wide range of employee relations matters, from performance management and employee engagement to disciplinary investigations and EEO compliance.About Seattle Public Utilities: Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a community-centered utility that delivers vital services to Seattle residents and businesses including drinking water, drainage and wastewater, and garbage/recycling/compost. SPU also provides drinking water for 1.5 million customers in the region. SPU’s work includes system maintenance and improvements and keeping Seattle clean. Over 1,400 SPU employees work with our community to provide affordable and equitable stewardship of our water and waste resources for future generations.For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU),checkout the:• SPU Website• SPU Workplace Expectations (Download PDF reader)• Strategic Business PlanSPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring and promotional opportunities.Why Join Our Team?We know work isn't only about what you do it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family-friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:• Hybrid work schedule opportunities• Family-friendly and multicultural work environment• Generous benefits package• Free Orca Pass City pension plan with employer/employee contributions• Growth potential and advancement opportunitiesJob Responsibilities• Collaborate with employees, managers, and business partners to build strong relationships and address employee concerns proactively.• Provide expert advice and consultation on employee and labor relations processes, procedures, and best practices, including employee engagement, recognition, training, performance, misconduct, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and EEO matters.• Investigate or assist in investigations regarding allegations of misconduct, discrimination, harassment, and other issues as needed, ensuring fair and impartial processes.• Advise employees and managers on personnel issues and interpret/implement City Personnel Rules, Department Guidelines, and Collective Bargaining Agreements.• Conduct debriefing sessions with employees and management to facilitate understanding and resolution of issues.QualificationsEducation: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, related fieldExperience: Three (3) years of experience in employee and/or labor relations work in a comparable organization, including conducting or providing oversight for investigations (including EEO investigations).License: Current Washington State driver's license or evidence of equivalent mobilityAdditional InformationDesired Qualifications:• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex situations and find solutions that meet the needs of all stakeholders.• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with individuals from diverse backgrounds.• Demonstrated experience in a leadership role in a complex unionized environment.• Knowledge of Washington State labor laws and regulations.• Strong mediation and conflict resolution skills.• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.The full salary range for this position is $91,642.32 - $137,453.04 Annually .This position allows for the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule. Employees will to come into the office a minimum of twice a week. Individual schedules will be agreed upon by the employee and their supervisor.In addition to completing your on-line application, please attach the following:1. Current resume2.Cover letter which describes your interest in the position and how you meet the position's requirements.3. Writing sample: Describe a challenging workplace investigation you conducted and the specific steps you took to ensure a fair investigation. Highlight any obstacles you encountered and how you overcame them. Finally, reflect on the lessons you learned from the experience and how it has influenced your approach to workplace investigations. Your response should showcase:• Your strategic approach on how to conduct an investigation.• Demonstrate your knowledge of what elements are for an investigation.• Your strategic approach to problem-solving and finding solutions.• Your commitment to fairness, transparency, and upholding labor rights.This hiring process involves a background check of conviction and arrest records in compliance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17. Applicants will be provided with an opportunity to explain or correct background information.The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at:https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plansFor more information regarding this recruitment, please contact Erika Monroe at Erika.monroe@seattle.gov