General Overview

The Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) is an industry union representing members working in the Rail and Public Transport industries across Australia.

The RTBU Victorian Branch is looking for an industrial officer with training and experience in industrial relations, law or related disciplines.

Working under the direction of the Victorian Branch Secretary, the core responsibilities of the position will be to provide legal advice and support to the RTBU and will be expected to work as both part of a team and individually to provide high quality, professional and timely advice to assist in the achievement of sound industrial outcomes for members.

The RTBU is a fast paced and energetic industry-wide union that provides reliable service to a well organised membership. Working in a close-knit team, the role of Industrial Officer presents many opportunities to grow through involvement and contact with a diversity of challenges and a dynamic industry.

Position Description

The core responsibilities will be to provide industrial and legal advice and support to the RTBU Victorian Branch in accordance with plans and objectives set by the Branch Secretary from time to time.

The key responsibilities are as follows:

• Provide industrial and legal advice and support;
• Undertake general industrial advocacy;
• Appear on behalf of the RTBU members at the Fair Work Commission and in other court proceedings, where necessary;
• Provide strategic advice to the industrial team;
• Liaise with employer representatives and external lawyers where necessary;
• Participate in, and assist with enterprise agreement bargaining, and the negotiation and drafting of individual and collective agreements;
• Provide on-going industrial and legal support to the Branch Secretary, Office Holders, Organisers, Delegates and Members;
• Provide workplace specific education in relation to legal matters;
• Perform industrial and legal research to support campaigns and other industrial matters;
• Liaise with the National Industrial Officer on national industrial matters affecting RTBU members;
• Provide support and advice on internal governance requirements;
• Assist with implementing occupational health and safety procedures and strategies;
• Prepare and present cases and submissions;
• Where appropriate, participate in delegate development activities, including formal and informal training;
• Undertake other duties as directed by the Branch Secretary.

Reporting

The RTBU Victorian Branch Secretary. In the absence of the Branch Secretary, you will report to the appropriate officer as directed by the Branch Secretary.

Hours

This is a permanent full-time position.

Normal hours of work will be between 8:30am – 5:00pm or as agreed with the Branch Secretary with flexible working options available.

Union Culture

• Welcome members and delegates in a friendly manner
• Build and maintain good relationships with Members, Delegates and Officials
• Liaise with members regularly
• Promote the importance of Union membership and participation
• Work within the RTBU’s Governance Policies and Procedures
• Work as directed by the Branch Secretary

ESSENTIAL Experience and Qualifications

The skills required for the position are:

• A sound knowledge of industrial relations legislation and an understanding of the labour market generally;
• Well-developed research, analytical, problem solving skills and a capacity to contribute to strategic planning;
• Ability to prepare and articulate a position formally at a tribunal, court, mediation or meeting;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to develop relationships with key stakeholders;
• Self-directed, highly motivated, reliable, team player;
• Ability to work effectively and harmoniously with RTBU staff and officers;
• A demonstrated commitment to the RTBU values and trade unionism generally;
• Accuracy and timeliness in performing allocated tasks and work responsibilities.

University level qualifications in law, experience in industrial relations having worked with and/or for unions either as lawyer, industrial officer or organiser, understanding and experience of union campaigning and legal strategies.

Must be able to obtain a Right of Entry Permit.

Remuneration will be commensurate with experience and skill. The starting date is as soon as practical.

Should you have any questions, please contact Amedeo D'Aprano on 0488 305 088.