Counsellor, Industrial Relations

With a history of more than 50 years, the Maritime Employers Association (MEA) is responsible for the recruitment, training, and the daily deployment of qualified labour across four ports in Eastern Canada, namely the Ports of Montreal, Trois-Rivières/Bécancour, Hamilton, and Toronto.

The MEA also has the mandate to negotiate and administer the collective bargaining agreements of its member companies, which include the shipping line operators as well as the stowage companies. The MEA acts as a health & safety expert-advisor for terminal operators.

Reporting to the Team Leader of Industrial Relations, the selected candidate occupying this vacant position will be responsible for supporting the processes of recruiting, training, and disciplining unionized workers as well as representing multiple clients at the Port of Hamilton and Toronto in all labour related matters such as interpretation of collective agreements, health & safety of worksites and grievance committees.  He/she will also have the opportunity to participate in collective negotiations while acting as the primary liaison for high-level shareholders in various strategic operational Committees.

Job Responsibilities

• Participate in all tasks related to the staffing of unionized personnel


• Manage full life-cycle process and integration of new employees


• Prioritize and facilitate training of workforce, as needed


• Serve as the primary MEA representative on various Committees, including but not limited to; Health & Safety (OHS), Grievance, Management (MHMC), and Port Security


• Ensure a regular physical presence in the dispatch hall, on the terminals/worksites, and on cargo ships (as needed) during the shipping season, listen to and action the needs of the union staff and the shareholder partners/clients


• Act as first and primary point of contact for employee relations issues/requests


• Ensure successful implementation, enforcement, follow-up and maintenance of company policies and procedures


• Prioritize and execute multiple tasks and projects in a dynamic but deadline-oriented environment

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Commerce, Human Resources Management and/or any related discipline such as Strategic Management, Industrial Relations, etc.


• Must have 1 to 3 years of experience in a related field and have acquired CHRP (or working towards it)


• An interest in working closely with unionized labour in Training, Staffing, Health & Safety, and Labour Relations


• A valid driver’s license and a vehicle that can be used to travel between the various terminals and offices of the Port of Hamilton


• An interest in heavy equipment, various cargoes, and cargo vessels on Port Terminals (considered asset)


• Comfortable with heights, stairs and fixed ladders. Will be required to board cargo ships as needed.


• An interest in working closely with operations both in an outdoor and indoor setting

The main office is located at 208 Hillyard St., Hamilton, Ontario. The candidate must be able to travel to the workplace within a reasonable time frame to meet the operational requirements of the position.

In addition to a stimulating work environment with dynamic and versatile personnel, the MEA offers a full range of benefits to employees, including:

Job Benefits

• A group insurance plan: Drug and Dental, Life, Telemedicine, Disability, Travel Insurance and employee assistance program (EAP)


• Defined contribution pension plan


• An access to Justice program with reduced rates


• Quarterly allowance access program (starting at $75)

Pay Scale

The average salary range for this full-time position is $74,069 to $98,758 annually. The salary range for the selected candidate will be calculated based on previous experience, educational background, and assets met.

Candidates may be subjected to tests required by the employer.

If you are looking for a fast-paced, challenging, and fun HR/Labour Relations opportunity, this position is the one for you!

As an employer, we are committed to employment equity. Our hiring policy is to recruit and select candidates based on their qualifications, with a view to choosing the most qualified candidate for the position. The Maritime Employers Association does not discriminate against applicants based on race, color, religion, sex, ethnic origin, disability, or any other criteria specified in applicable laws.

Please note that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.