Sr Labor Relations Consultant
NiSource
- Location
- Staunton VA Op Ctr
- Work model
- On-Site
- Level
- Senior
- Posted
- Aug 31, 2026
About this role
Job Summary
The Senior Consultant serves as a trusted advisor to leaders, employees, and union representatives by administering and supporting labor and employee relations programs in a unionized environment. This role is responsible for interpreting and applying collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), conducting workplace investigations, managing grievance processes, facilitating labor-management discussions, drafting labor-related agreements, and supporting collective bargaining activities. The Senior Consultant partners with business leaders and cross-functional stakeholders to promote positive employee relations, ensure consistent application of labor policies and practices, mitigate workplace risk, and support compliance with applicable laws and collective bargaining agreements. The role also supports the development and execution of labor and employee relations strategies through data analysis, reporting, risk assessments, leader training, and other workforce interventions designed to enhance organizational effectiveness and employee engagement. Essential Functions Labor Relations Conduct fact-finding investigations and administer corrective action processes in accordance with collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), just cause standards, and company policies. Advise and support leaders in responding to grievances and employee relations concerns. Manage grievance processes, including preparation, facilitation of grievance meetings, and leader readiness. Support arbitration activities, including case preparation, documentation, and serving as a company representative or witness when needed. Draft and review labor-related agreements, including memorandums of agreement (MOAs) and memorandums of understanding (MOUs). Facilitate resolution of workplace disputes involving employees, leaders, and union representatives. Build and maintain effective relationships with union leadership to support collaborative problem-solving and issue resolution. Provide day-to-day guidance on CBA interpretation, labor policies, and represented employee matters. Support labor relations strategies, bargaining initiatives, and contract negotiations that align with business objectives. Employee Relations & Workforce Engagement Promote positive employee relations by addressing workplace concerns, supporting fair and consistent practices, and helping maintain an engaging work environment. Support labor and employee relations strategies, including union avoidance, organizing campaigns, and workforce engagement initiatives. Track, analyze, and report employee and labor relations metrics to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement. Partner with Talent Management and HR teams to develop and deliver leader training on employee and labor relations topics. Leader Consultation & Enablement Coach and advise leaders on employee and labor relations matters, emerging workplace trends, and potential workforce risks. Provide strategic guidance on the administration of CBAs, labor relations practices, and compliance with applicable laws and company policies. Serve as a labor relations consultant to business partners and support functions on issues impacting represented employees and unionized workgroups. Help leaders navigate complex employee relations situations by recommending practical, compliant, and business-focused solutions.
Required Qualifications
For Position Bachelor's degree in Labor Relations, Industrial Relations, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Five (5) or more years of experience in labor relations, employee relations, human resources, or a related role supporting a represented workforce. Demonstrated experience interpreting and administering collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), managing grievances, conducting workplace investigations, and supporting labor negotiations. Working knowledge of federal and state employment laws and labor regulations, including experience handling matters involving