Senior Advisor, Employee and Labour Relations
Top Benefits
About the role
Please Note: If you are a current Algonquin College employee, apply to this job via the Workday application.
Department:
Labour Relations
Position Type:
Full-Time Administrative
Salary Range:
$98,395.00-$122,994.00-Annual
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
36.25
Anticipated Start Date:
January 19, 2026
Length of Contract:
n/a
Posting Information
This job posting is now accepting applications from all qualified individuals.
Posting Closing Date:
December 5, 2025
Please note: jobs are posted until 11:59 pm on the job closing date.
Job Description:
Algonquin College campuses in Ottawa, Perth and Pembroke are located on the traditional unceded, and unsurrendered territory of the Anishinàbe Algonquin People. The Algonquin People have inhabited and cared for these lands since time immemorial. We take this time to express our gratitude and respect to them and to the land for all that it has provided and will continue to provide.
Reporting to the Manager, Employee and Labour Relations, the Senior Advisor, Employee and Labour Relations is responsible for all employee and labour relations operational matters. The Senior Advisor acts as a trusted resource to all levels of management, ensuring that appropriate action is taken with respect to a wide variety of issues that support the College’s strategic plan, including but not limited to: collective agreement and labour law interpretation, performance management, progressive discipline and termination, layoff/recall, human rights complaints, workplace harassment investigations, mediation of workplace conflict, employee conduct issues, and management advisory issues in general.
The Senior Advisor is the first point of contact for employee complaints and grievances and in collaboration with key stakeholders takes the appropriate steps to resolve issues in the best interests of all parties, ensuring alignment with the College’s core values and policies and practices. The Senior Advisor works closely with legal counsel and represents the College at Human Rights Tribunals, arbitration proceedings and other employment related hearings. The Senior Advisor provides coaching and formal training to people leaders to support their decision-making capabilities within the workplace and provides ongoing support and feedback to ensure that strategic advice is implemented. The Senior Advisor will act as a key advisor providing employee and labour relations guidance to various cross College committees.
The Senior Advisor builds relationships with both Union Locals and other internal and external stakeholders in order to ensure a fair and equitable approach to labour relations, with the goal of achieving a harmonious employee-employer relationship and a labour relations environment that is positive and productive.
The Senior Advisor implements College Labour Relations strategies under the direction of the Manager.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Employee and Labour Relations Management
- Workplace Investigations
- Management Training
- Mediation Co-Ordination
- Research, Reporting, & Communications
Required Qualifications:
- Minimum four (4) year University Degree in Human Resources Management, Industrial Relations, Psychology, Social Science, or equivalent. Formal training in Industrial Relations and/or Human Resources management is required;
- Minimum of (9) nine years’ experience in a unionized work environment, providing labour relations counsel, coaching and guidance to all levels of management;
- Certified Human Resources Professional and/or Leader (CHRP/CHRL) is an asset;
- Formal investigations training would be an asset;
- Experience in large, complex multi-union environment an asset;
- Proficiency in interpreting and understanding new legislation, policies, directives, Collective Agreements, collaborating with others to implement changes accurately while remaining aware of potential impacts on the College and its employees.
The incumbent must have knowledge of:
-
Collective agreements and collective bargaining processes;
-
Terms and conditions of employment for non-unionized staff;
-
The Labour Relations dispute resolution systems and processes, including rights arbitration;
-
Provincial legislation related to employment and labour law, specifically:
- The Employment Standards Act;
- The Ontario Human Rights Code;
- The Ontario Labour Relations Act;
- The Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act;
- The Colleges Collective Bargaining Act;
-
Application of common law principles and contract law in the employment context;
-
Case management principles;
-
Conflict resolution principles;
-
Mediation principles;
The incumbent must have:
- Excellent communication skills, both spoken and written, to communicate effectively with at all levels of the College or the public, whether in person, virtual or by phone;
- Ability to gain consensus and lead others with respect to best practices and strategic courses of action;
- Ability to adapt and learn quickly, in an ever-changing environment, keeping current with changing legislation, policies, and best practices;
- Ability to understand, interpret, and advise others with respect to complex legal documents and legislation;
- Ability to discuss and resolve problems in difficult situations that are often emotionally charged; taking into consideration the short and long term best interests of the parties;
- Strong analytical and coordination skills;
- Excellent organizational/project management skills;
- Excellent presentation skills;
- Ability to manage multiple conflicting demands and deadlines;
- Ability to prioritize and work productively under stress and pressure;
- Ability to work independently as well as within a team;
- Excellent listening and interpersonal skills;
- Excellent analytical and records management skills;
- Ability to set priorities and to work within deadlines;
- Adherence to a strict code of confidentiality and ethics;
- Ability to work effectively in a complex multi-unionized, collegial environment;
- Sound decision-making, planning and time-management skills;
- Ability to work in stressful situations and with critical inflexible deadlines;
- Experience with MS Office, Human Resources Information Management Systems (e.g., Workday);
- Strong knowledge of Human Resources industry practices, Employment related legislation, Collective Agreements, Case Management, Arbitration decisions/grievance and arbitration processes;
Why Join Algonquin College?
-
Compensation: We offer a competitive base salary that reflects your skills and experience and Comprehensive Benefits that include health, dental, and retirement plans that ensure your well-being and peace of mind.
Benefits | Careers
-
Learning and Development Opportunities: Access to training, tuition assistance programs (Algonquin College
Courses
and
Degree Completion
), certifications, workshops, and professional courses that allow you to grow and advance in your career.
About Us | Employee Learning and Development
-
Company Culture: Our values of caring, learning, integrity, and respect define how we interact with one another. We foster a supportive and collaborative environment. Algonquin College has been recognized by Forbes as one of Canada’s Best Employers for 2025 and one of Canada’s Best Employers for Diversity for 2024
-
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA): We are proud to be the first Ontario college to implement an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion policy, fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees feel respected and valued.
Affinity Group Conversation Communities | Inclusion & Diversity
&
Truth and Reconciliation
-
Flexible Work Arrangement Policy. This position is eligible for hybrid work in conjunction with the College's
https://www.algonquincollege.com/policies/hr26/
(subject to change).
Apply Now
Submit your application by Friday, December 5, 2025 through our
Career Opportunities
. After applying, you will receive a confirmation email. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the hiring manager.
Application Requirements
Please include a cover letter with your application that:
- Clearly demonstrates how you meet each of the required qualifications outlined in the job posting.
- Specifically addresses the following:
- Education – State your highest level of education and how it meets the requirement of the position.
- Experience – Provide examples of roles and responsibilities that align with the required years and type of experience.
Highlights any relevant training or certifications that pertain to the position.
This position is eligible for hybrid work in conjunction with the College's Flexible Work Arrangement**Policy.
https://www.algonquincollege.com/policies/hr26/
(subject to change).
Algonquin College values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. We offer an inclusive work environment and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process please contact the Human Resources department at humanresources@algonquincollege.com. While we thank all those who apply, only those to be interviewed will be contacted.
About Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology
Algonquin’s success in numbers:
- 90% of graduates have jobs within six months of graduation
- 96% of graduates would recommend Algonquin to others
- 92% of employers are happy with the quality of Algonquin programs
Situated across three beautiful campuses in Ottawa, Pembroke and Perth, Algonquin provides an extensive range of hands-on learning programs, offering degrees, advanced diplomas, diplomas, graduate certificates and certificates.
As the largest college in eastern Ontario, we continue to expand our facilities — with four major new buildings in three years — accommodating an ever-growing student population, supported by innovative technologies, unique programs, and experienced professors with a passion for applied learning.
Our ‘Fourth Campus’ is the limitless, virtual territory of online studies and support.
If you’re ready to start a career, or enhance the one you have, the Centre for Continuing and Online Learning gives you options:
Full-time Online If you’re a self-directed and committed learner, full-time online programs give you an alternate, flexible way to achieve a diploma or certificate.
Part- time Online Part-time online learning allows you to work around your busy schedule from your own home, or anywhere.
Part-time On Campus For some students, learning is easier face-to-face. Studying part-time on campus is all about gaining skills through hands-on experience in specialized labs.
Senior Advisor, Employee and Labour Relations
Top Benefits
About the role
Please Note: If you are a current Algonquin College employee, apply to this job via the Workday application.
Department:
Labour Relations
Position Type:
Full-Time Administrative
Salary Range:
$98,395.00-$122,994.00-Annual
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
36.25
Anticipated Start Date:
January 19, 2026
Length of Contract:
n/a
Posting Information
This job posting is now accepting applications from all qualified individuals.
Posting Closing Date:
December 5, 2025
Please note: jobs are posted until 11:59 pm on the job closing date.
Job Description:
Algonquin College campuses in Ottawa, Perth and Pembroke are located on the traditional unceded, and unsurrendered territory of the Anishinàbe Algonquin People. The Algonquin People have inhabited and cared for these lands since time immemorial. We take this time to express our gratitude and respect to them and to the land for all that it has provided and will continue to provide.
Reporting to the Manager, Employee and Labour Relations, the Senior Advisor, Employee and Labour Relations is responsible for all employee and labour relations operational matters. The Senior Advisor acts as a trusted resource to all levels of management, ensuring that appropriate action is taken with respect to a wide variety of issues that support the College’s strategic plan, including but not limited to: collective agreement and labour law interpretation, performance management, progressive discipline and termination, layoff/recall, human rights complaints, workplace harassment investigations, mediation of workplace conflict, employee conduct issues, and management advisory issues in general.
The Senior Advisor is the first point of contact for employee complaints and grievances and in collaboration with key stakeholders takes the appropriate steps to resolve issues in the best interests of all parties, ensuring alignment with the College’s core values and policies and practices. The Senior Advisor works closely with legal counsel and represents the College at Human Rights Tribunals, arbitration proceedings and other employment related hearings. The Senior Advisor provides coaching and formal training to people leaders to support their decision-making capabilities within the workplace and provides ongoing support and feedback to ensure that strategic advice is implemented. The Senior Advisor will act as a key advisor providing employee and labour relations guidance to various cross College committees.
The Senior Advisor builds relationships with both Union Locals and other internal and external stakeholders in order to ensure a fair and equitable approach to labour relations, with the goal of achieving a harmonious employee-employer relationship and a labour relations environment that is positive and productive.
The Senior Advisor implements College Labour Relations strategies under the direction of the Manager.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Employee and Labour Relations Management
- Workplace Investigations
- Management Training
- Mediation Co-Ordination
- Research, Reporting, & Communications
Required Qualifications:
- Minimum four (4) year University Degree in Human Resources Management, Industrial Relations, Psychology, Social Science, or equivalent. Formal training in Industrial Relations and/or Human Resources management is required;
- Minimum of (9) nine years’ experience in a unionized work environment, providing labour relations counsel, coaching and guidance to all levels of management;
- Certified Human Resources Professional and/or Leader (CHRP/CHRL) is an asset;
- Formal investigations training would be an asset;
- Experience in large, complex multi-union environment an asset;
- Proficiency in interpreting and understanding new legislation, policies, directives, Collective Agreements, collaborating with others to implement changes accurately while remaining aware of potential impacts on the College and its employees.
The incumbent must have knowledge of:
-
Collective agreements and collective bargaining processes;
-
Terms and conditions of employment for non-unionized staff;
-
The Labour Relations dispute resolution systems and processes, including rights arbitration;
-
Provincial legislation related to employment and labour law, specifically:
- The Employment Standards Act;
- The Ontario Human Rights Code;
- The Ontario Labour Relations Act;
- The Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act;
- The Colleges Collective Bargaining Act;
-
Application of common law principles and contract law in the employment context;
-
Case management principles;
-
Conflict resolution principles;
-
Mediation principles;
The incumbent must have:
- Excellent communication skills, both spoken and written, to communicate effectively with at all levels of the College or the public, whether in person, virtual or by phone;
- Ability to gain consensus and lead others with respect to best practices and strategic courses of action;
- Ability to adapt and learn quickly, in an ever-changing environment, keeping current with changing legislation, policies, and best practices;
- Ability to understand, interpret, and advise others with respect to complex legal documents and legislation;
- Ability to discuss and resolve problems in difficult situations that are often emotionally charged; taking into consideration the short and long term best interests of the parties;
- Strong analytical and coordination skills;
- Excellent organizational/project management skills;
- Excellent presentation skills;
- Ability to manage multiple conflicting demands and deadlines;
- Ability to prioritize and work productively under stress and pressure;
- Ability to work independently as well as within a team;
- Excellent listening and interpersonal skills;
- Excellent analytical and records management skills;
- Ability to set priorities and to work within deadlines;
- Adherence to a strict code of confidentiality and ethics;
- Ability to work effectively in a complex multi-unionized, collegial environment;
- Sound decision-making, planning and time-management skills;
- Ability to work in stressful situations and with critical inflexible deadlines;
- Experience with MS Office, Human Resources Information Management Systems (e.g., Workday);
- Strong knowledge of Human Resources industry practices, Employment related legislation, Collective Agreements, Case Management, Arbitration decisions/grievance and arbitration processes;
Why Join Algonquin College?
-
Compensation: We offer a competitive base salary that reflects your skills and experience and Comprehensive Benefits that include health, dental, and retirement plans that ensure your well-being and peace of mind.
Benefits | Careers
-
Learning and Development Opportunities: Access to training, tuition assistance programs (Algonquin College
Courses
and
Degree Completion
), certifications, workshops, and professional courses that allow you to grow and advance in your career.
About Us | Employee Learning and Development
-
Company Culture: Our values of caring, learning, integrity, and respect define how we interact with one another. We foster a supportive and collaborative environment. Algonquin College has been recognized by Forbes as one of Canada’s Best Employers for 2025 and one of Canada’s Best Employers for Diversity for 2024
-
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA): We are proud to be the first Ontario college to implement an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion policy, fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees feel respected and valued.
Affinity Group Conversation Communities | Inclusion & Diversity
&
Truth and Reconciliation
-
Flexible Work Arrangement Policy. This position is eligible for hybrid work in conjunction with the College's
https://www.algonquincollege.com/policies/hr26/
(subject to change).
Apply Now
Submit your application by Friday, December 5, 2025 through our
Career Opportunities
. After applying, you will receive a confirmation email. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the hiring manager.
Application Requirements
Please include a cover letter with your application that:
- Clearly demonstrates how you meet each of the required qualifications outlined in the job posting.
- Specifically addresses the following:
- Education – State your highest level of education and how it meets the requirement of the position.
- Experience – Provide examples of roles and responsibilities that align with the required years and type of experience.
Highlights any relevant training or certifications that pertain to the position.
This position is eligible for hybrid work in conjunction with the College's Flexible Work Arrangement**Policy.
https://www.algonquincollege.com/policies/hr26/
(subject to change).
Algonquin College values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. We offer an inclusive work environment and encourage applications from all qualified individuals. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process please contact the Human Resources department at humanresources@algonquincollege.com. While we thank all those who apply, only those to be interviewed will be contacted.
About Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology
Algonquin’s success in numbers:
- 90% of graduates have jobs within six months of graduation
- 96% of graduates would recommend Algonquin to others
- 92% of employers are happy with the quality of Algonquin programs
Situated across three beautiful campuses in Ottawa, Pembroke and Perth, Algonquin provides an extensive range of hands-on learning programs, offering degrees, advanced diplomas, diplomas, graduate certificates and certificates.
As the largest college in eastern Ontario, we continue to expand our facilities — with four major new buildings in three years — accommodating an ever-growing student population, supported by innovative technologies, unique programs, and experienced professors with a passion for applied learning.
Our ‘Fourth Campus’ is the limitless, virtual territory of online studies and support.
If you’re ready to start a career, or enhance the one you have, the Centre for Continuing and Online Learning gives you options:
Full-time Online If you’re a self-directed and committed learner, full-time online programs give you an alternate, flexible way to achieve a diploma or certificate.
Part- time Online Part-time online learning allows you to work around your busy schedule from your own home, or anywhere.
Part-time On Campus For some students, learning is easier face-to-face. Studying part-time on campus is all about gaining skills through hands-on experience in specialized labs.