Description:
Job Requirements:With direction from and under the limited supervision of the Chief Labor & Employment Counsel, provides strategic legal counsel on labor and employment matters to Human Resources and leadership across the University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) and its member organizations. Serves as a trusted advisor, manages complex and high-risk issues, supports and implements system-wide labor and employment strategies, and independently leads significant initiatives and disputes through resolution. Requires the ability to independently research, evaluate, interpret, and resolve complex legal matters, while advising corporate officers and managers on the legal implications of decisions and ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and precedents. Influences corporate programs and policies through active participation as a legal advisor on committees and projects. Must maintain current knowledge of labor and employment laws affecting the health system and operates in alignment with corporate policies, ethical standards, and the professional responsibilities of the legal field.
The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job responsibilities performed.
- Counsel management regarding complex employee relations matters, including but not limited to performance concerns, internal complaints, and requests for reasonable accommodations; work with clients to develop solutions that meet organizational goals and are compliant with federal, state and local labor and employment laws.
- Identify areas that could benefit from consistent standards and practices across member organizations. Develop templates, playbooks, and training to improve consistency and efficiency across the Medical System.
- Lead labor and employment risk assessments for organizational changes (e.g., reorganizations, acquisitions/affiliations, restructurings, and reductions in force) and advise on legally compliant implementation plans.
- Monitor emerging trends, material risks, and recommended actions regarding labor and employment law, escalating as appropriate.
- Conduct and direct internal investigations regarding matters of significance and System-wide import.
- Maintain a working knowledge of traditional labor law and trends, including supporting collective bargaining, contract interpretation, grievance and arbitration matters, and union organizing/avoidance campaigns.
- Mentor and provide work direction to other attorneys and legal staff on labor and employment matters ensuring consistent, high-quality legal support.
- Maintain awareness of labor and employment legal services budget, ensure that matters under supervision remain within budget or follow escalation guidelines.
- Represent UMMS and member organizations before federal, state and local administrative agencies that enforce workplace statutes and regulations, including but not limited to EEOC, MCCR, and Department of Labor.
- Support management of outside ERISA/benefits counsel, including matter intake, scope definition, budgets, timelines, and deliverables, and partner with internal stakeholders to implement guidance. Provide advice and counsel to Graduate Medical Education programs regarding resident/fellow performance matters; represent programs in due process proceedings.
- Perform duties of subordinate L&E staff as necessary to ensure that highest standards of representation are provided to client.
- Perform all other duties as assigned.
Work Experience:
Required:
- Juris Doctor Degree from an accredited school of law.
- Admission to the Maryland Bar and eligibility for admission to the Federal Bar for the U.S. District of Maryland and the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.
- Minimum ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience as a practicing labor and employment attorney.
Preferred:
Experience practicing labor and employment law in a law firm setting.