General Overview

The Rail, Tram & Bus Union (RTBU) is an industry union representing members working in the rail and public transport industries across Australia.

We are looking for an industrial officer with training and experience in industrial relations, law or related disciplines to work within our industrial team to provide legal and industrial advice to officials, organisers, delegates and members throughout Victoria.

You 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 union that provides reliable service to a high density and 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 within a dynamic industry.

We are looking to fill this position with the right candidate as soon as practical. Applications close 9 May.

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.

The key responsibilities include:

• Provide industrial and legal advice;
• Undertake general industrial advocacy;
• Prepare submissions and appear on behalf of the RTBU members at the Fair Work Commission and in other court/tribunal proceedings;
• Provide strategic advice to the industrial team;
• Liaise with employer representatives and external lawyers where necessary;
• Participate in, and provide assistance 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 and broader industrial team;
• Perform industrial and legal research to support campaigns and other industrial matters;
• Liaise with the National Industrial Officer and other state-based industrial officers;
• Provide support and advice on internal governance requirements;
• Advise and assist on occupational health and safety matters;
• Where appropriate, participate in delegate development activities, including formal and informal training;
• Draft communications for the purpose of providing members and delegates with information regarding industrial matters.
• Represent members in disciplinary and other matters;
• Attend on-the-job meetings;
• Undertake other duties as directed by the Branch Secretary

Reporting to:

The RTBU Victorian Branch Secretary.

Hours:

This position is a full-time ongoing position.

Normal hours of work will be between 8:30am – 5:00pm but may vary by agreement with the Branch Secretary.

Alignment with the culture of the Union:

• Build and maintain good relationships with members, workplace representatives, organisers, officials and other staff.
• Be responsive to the needs of members, delegates, organisers and officials to meet expectations and provide a high quality and reliable service that supports the industrial objectives of the RTBU.
• Promote the importance of Union membership and active participation.
• Work within the rules and policies of the RTBU.

Essential Experience and Qualifications:

Selection Criteria:

The skills required for the position are:

• Tertiary qualifications in law and/or industrial relations;
• Experience in industrial relations through work with unions or labour law firms;
• 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 union movement generally;
• Accuracy and timeliness in performing allocated tasks and work responsibilities;
• Ability to obtain a Right of Entry Permit.