This position is a tiered position. Incumbents will have a position level assigned based on their skills and experience, and in alignment with position development plans. Position placement is at Amtrak's sole and absolute discretion.Job SummaryResponsible for representing Amtrak and presenting its case in formal investigations for agreement employees charged with violating Amtrak policies, regulations, rules, and procedures. Primary role will be supporting the operating crafts (T&E, Dispatch and OBS) Prior to the investigation hearing, gathers all the relevant evidence and determines the required witnesses. Oversees sending out the letter setting forth the charges against the employee within the time limits as prescribed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). During the hearing, questions Amtrak witnesses, cross examines witnesses called by the union or charged employee and raises/responds to objections. Once the Hearing Officer reaches a determination on whether the charge was proven or not, works with the employee's management department to determine the level of discipline to be assessed, if any. Ensures that the charged employee and union are notified properly and timely of the disciplinary decision in accordance with the pertinent CBA and are sent a copy of the hearing transcript and all exhibits.
Essential Functions- Organize and assemble all relative evidentiary documents prior to the hearing investigating the employee's alleged misconduct.
- Determine which witnesses are required to effectively present Amtrak's case and the order in which they will testify.
- Work independently with attention to detail, to ensure disciplinary hearing correspondence is handled within appropriate timelines, including charge letters, letters of postponement, and discipline letters.
- Travel, sometimes at short notice, and participate in disciplinary hearings throughout the country. This may include weekends, holidays and off-hours travel in order to accommodate business needs.
- During investigations, effectively question Amtrak witnesses, cross examine union/charged employee witnesses, and respond to/raise objections as appropriate.
- Develop and maintain professional relationships with all Organization department heads and their staffs.
Minimum Qualifications- Bachelor's Degree or equivalent combination of education, training and/or relevant experience.
- Plus 3+ years of relevant work experience.
- Experience in conducting investigations, researching evidence, and questioning witnesses in a corporate or government setting.
Preferred Qualifications- At least 5+ years' experience as a Charging Officer or similar experience in a position with Labor Relations, Human Resources, or Operations.
- College degree and/or Juris Doctor degree preferred.
- Previous experience with disciplinary investigations and proceedings in a union environment.
- Knowledge of Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and Amtrak policies and procedures related to operational department business functions.
- De novo arbitration experience
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities- Discretion to work with sensitive and confidential information
- Sharp analytical skills to evaluate situations and take appropriate action to ensure resolution
- Good judgement, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills
- Excellent records management and time management skills
- Proficient computer skills including spreadsheet, data base, and word processing software as well as virtual meetings and proceedings
- Ability to work closely with operational staff
- Understanding of how to work within a departmental budget
- Handle high volume of cases within time constraints using solid time management skills
- Excellent oral and written communications skills and ability to interact effectively with all levels of management
The salary/hourly range for Lead Disciplinary Hearing Advocate is $94,300 - $122,256. The salary range for Sr Disciplinary Hearing Advocate is $78,600 - $101,844. Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, etc. Depending on an employee's assigned worksite or location, Amtrak may consider a geo-pay differential to be applied to the employee's base salary. Amtrak may offer additional incentive and pay programs to recognize and reward our employees, including a short-term incentive bonus based upon factors such as individual and company performance that is commensurate with the level of the position.
Health and WellbeingFinancial and RetirementWork and Family Life SupportHealth, Dental, and Vision Insurance401K with Employer MatchGenerous Paid Time Off Wellness ProgramsRailroad Retirement BenefitsPaid Caregiving Days and Backup CareHealth Savings AccountPublic Service Student Loan ForgivenessFertility and Family Building BenefitsNo-cost Personal Health AdvocateStudent Loan AssistanceAdoption and Surrogacy AssistanceMedical Plan Opt-out CreditTuition and Education ReimbursementPaid Family Leave Life InsuranceRail Pass Privileges Short- and Long-term Disability InsuranceEmployee Assistance Program No-cost Financial Advisor SessionsCommuter and Flexible Spending Accounts
Learn more about our benefits offerings here.
Requisition ID:166477
Work Arrangement:02-Remote Optional Click here for more information about work arrangements at Amtrak.
Relocation Offered:No
Travel Requirements:Up to 25%
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