University of New Brunswick

Closing Date: June 5, 2025 at 4:00 PM

OFFICE OF THE VICE-PROVOST ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION

The Vice-Provost Academic Administration office oversees UNB's academic planning and support, program quality assurance and accreditation, instructor contracts, and faculty labour relations.

WHAT WE OFFER

Full-time | Continuing | Bi-Campus Position | Saint John or Fredericton Campus location | Hybrid

UNB is committed to ensuring employees can maintain a healthy work-life balance. As such, we are proud to support a hybrid work approach, which includes flexible hours and work-from-home options.

Standard Work Hours: Mon - Fri | 7:45 am - 4:00 pm | 36.25 hours per week (Summer Hours)

Additional Working Conditions:

• Ability to travel routinely between both campuses (Fredericton/Saint John)

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications & experience

YOUR FOCUS

Under the general supervision of the Senior Labour Relations Counsel, the Labour Relations Specialist will provide labour relations expertise for administrative leaders (Deans, Directors and above) at the University, particularly concerning the terms of employment and collective agreements that cover staff and academic appointments at the University, with a primary focus of providing advice regarding unionized academic appointments.

• Advise University administration on the interpretation, application, and implementation of collective agreements and policies, both through informal and formal processes including attendance at and advice regarding grievance and arbitration hearings.
• Foster positive and productive relations within the University and with its Unions by meeting with and negotiating with them.
• Research and provide legal advice on labour relations issues as they arise.
• Work to resolve labour relations disputes as they arise, through informal and formal processes.
• Work closely and collaboratively with the Faculty Relations staff within the office of the Vice-Provost Academic Administration, and staff from the People & Culture department on issues as they arise.
• Liaise with the office of the University's General Counsel to discuss issues and provide assistance where necessary on related issues.
• Represent the University at other related hearings (human rights, labour relations board, mediations, and others as necessary).
• Liaise with external legal counsel when necessary.
• Perform activities related to the negotiation of collective agreements, including preparatory information gathering, developing collective bargaining proposals, communications during bargaining, participating in bargaining, and post-bargaining implementation. Consult with University administration on bargaining matters.
• Participate in joint union-management committees and bargaining sessions as required.
• Conduct preparatory research, benchmarking, and costings.
• Develop, revise, and advise on policies and guidelines.
• Draft advice memorandums related to labour relations issues as required.
• Prepare, develop, and deliver resource materials and training sessions.
• Other assignments as required.

WHAT YOU BRING

• Law degree (LLB/JD) is required.
• Minimum 3 years of related experience.

Additional Strengths:

• Experience in labour relations or areas related to labour and employment law would be an asset.
• Planning, analytical, and creative problem-solving skills will be particularly important.
• Demonstrated excellent advocacy, conflict resolution, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build partnerships to gain consensus and commitment.
• Excellent time management skills to work on multiple responsibilities with varying deadlines.
• Prior experience in the public, post-secondary, or university sector would be an asset.