Workplace Relations Advisor

• Help shape the University’s workplace culture and employee relations strategies
• Foster a culture of excellence and innovation
• Benefit from continuous professional development

The University of Newcastle is a prestigious institution committed to excellence in education, research, and community engagement. We pride ourselves on being an employer of choice, fostering a positive and inclusive workplace environment. We are seeking a dynamic Workplace Relations Advisor to join our team and contribute to our mission of maintaining a productive and harmonious workplace.

Be challenged and imagine with us

As a Workplace Relations Advisor, you will play a pivotal role in managing and enhancing the relationship between the University and its employees. You will provide expert consultancy services to senior managers, supervisors, Human Resource Business Partners, and other key stakeholders, ensuring compliance with labour laws and fostering a positive workplace culture.

You will be the primary point of contact for workplace relations cases, responsible for triaging, assessing, and managing cases to resolution. Collaborating closely with the Associate Director, Workplace Relations, Governance, and Policy, you will develop and implement effective workplace relations strategies that position the University of Newcastle as a leading institution and employer of choice.

Your key responsibilities will encompass:

• Workplace relations strategy
• Management of employment practices
• Engagement with the organisation
• Negotiations and agreements
• Compliance and Policy Development
• Performance Management

You will inspire us with your

• Tertiary qualifications in Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Law, or a related field.
• Extensive experience in workplace relations, with a focus on compliance and case management.
• Proven track record in developing and implementing workplace relations strategies.
• Experience in enterprise bargaining and union negotiations.
• Strong understanding of labour laws and regulations.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

This continuing position is full time at a HEW 8Higher Education Level located at Callaghan Campus.

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, the University of Newcastle’s Looking Ahead Strategic Plan 2020-2025 outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. 

For more information click here – Our Uni. 

What we offer

In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively. 

These include: 

• The remuneration for this position is pro-rated from $112,112 - $130,798 p.a. + superannuation and is commensurate with skills and experience
• Flexible working arrangements (in line with the University’s Flexible Work Policy
• 17% super and salary packaging
• Additional University Holiday days, generous personal leave and parental leave, annual leave loading and additional purchased leave scheme
• Discounts in private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more
• Wellbeing programs

Your next steps 

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role. 

If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy before commencing your application. 

Your application must include: 

• Your resume
• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity
•  A statement addressing the Essential Criteria listed below

1. Post graduate qualifications or progress toward, in law, workplace relations or a related discipline and extensive relevant experience; or extensive experience and management expertise; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and or education and training.
2. Extensive knowledge of the workplace relations discipline and associated legislative and policy frameworks, including ability to interpret and advise on the application of industrial instruments.
3. Experience in negotiating and participating in disputes in an active unionised environment.
4. Demonstrated experience in developing workplace relations strategy and navigating a complex workplace relations environment to deliver significant positive change.
5. Demonstrated capability in managing complex employee disputes through to efficient resolution.
6.  Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability demonstrated by a track record of effectively managing risk and navigating difficult issues.
7. Demonstrated knowledge and experience in leading and cultivating workplace practices and behaviours that promote, support and maintain a safe, healthy, equitable, diverse and respectful workplace, including responding appropriately to adverse accidents, incidents, behaviours, issues and reports.

To ensure that your application receives full consideration, it's important to structure and address the selection criteria outlined in the application process. This helps us better understand your experience and suitability for the role. We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to reviewing your application.

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document.

Your Cover Letter and Response to the Essential Criteria should not exceed 4 pages (approximately 2,000 words).

For specific position enquiries, please contact Andrew Cairns, Associate Director Workplace Relations, Governance & Policy 02 4055 0823 or via email Andrew.Cairns@newcastle.edu.au

Having Difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au

Closing date: Sunday 8^th September 2024 at 11.59pm AEST

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

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