Description
Represent and advocate for union members in dealings with management; negotiate and enforce collective bargaining agreements; lead grievance and arbitration processes to resolve workplace issues and improve conditions.
- • Advise members, stewards, and union leaders on contract rights, discipline, and grievance procedures.
- • Meet with employers, mediators, and government agencies to discuss negotiations, grievances, or labor disputes.
- • Draft union contract proposals and counterproposals for collective bargaining.
- • Help establish bargaining ground rules and schedules with the employer and mediators.
- • Analyze employer proposals and develop union alternatives and costing.
- • Interpret contract language for members and enforce rights under the agreement.
- • Investigate member complaints and determine whether to file or advance grievances.
- • Seek informal resolution of issues with supervisors prior to formal steps.
- • Monitor employer compliance with collective bargaining agreements and labor laws.
- • Serve on and lead the union bargaining team to negotiate agreements.
- • File unfair labor practice charges or information requests with labor boards when needed.
- • Prepare reports and briefings for members and union leadership on workplace issues and bargaining progress.
- • Present the union’s case in arbitration, mediation, or fact-finding.
- • Develop and propose settlement options during bargaining or dispute resolution.
- • Recommend bargaining strategies, goals, and contract priorities to leadership.
- • Represent members in investigatory and disciplinary meetings and appeal hearings.
- • Audit payrolls, schedules, and policies to ensure contract compliance on wages, hours, and conditions.
- • Schedule and coordinate grievance meetings, step hearings, and arbitration calendars.
- • Draft grievances, demand-to-bargain letters, information requests, and other union correspondence.
- • Assess risks and leverage associated with bargaining strategies and job actions.
- • Evaluate the impact of proposals on members, operations, and community stakeholders.
- • Advocate for health and safety improvements and participate in joint safety committees.
- • Conduct surveys, site visits, and listening sessions to track member concerns and satisfaction.
- • Gather evidence, prepare exhibits, and coach witnesses for hearings or arbitration.
- • Provide testimony or affidavits in arbitration, ULP, or regulatory proceedings.
- • Research contract language, arbitration awards, and relevant labor case law.
- • Participate in the selection of mediators or arbitrators with employer representatives.
- • Train stewards and members on grievance handling, contract rights, and workplace protections.
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Management & Entrepreneurship
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
