Lead Negotiator
Summary Description Of Classification Reporting to the Chief Talent Management Officer, the Lead Negotiator serves as the chief negotiator for the Board of Education (Board). This position is responsible for planning, coordinating, and conducting formal negotiations with employee associations/union regarding salaries, wages, hours, and working conditions. The Lead Negotiator directs management negotiation teams, participates in collaborative work groups, and ensures the successful implementation of collective bargaining agreements. The Lead Negotiator advises the Superintendent on negotiation strategies and labor relations issues and supervises labor team members as assigned. Serves as spokesperson and primary liaison for the Board of Education to all associations/labor union. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: None. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Night and weekend work as required.
Job Specific Information The wage range for this position is between $146,939 and $204,585. Please upload a current resume and interest letter. For information about benefits, please follow the link below. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nCKtJEqy4w4SLTzmvmVXgE8hPfOBolkb/view
Job Administrators
Job Grade Q
Organization Offices
Primary Location Rockville
Schedule Full-time
Working Months 12
Shift Day Job
Job Posting Sep 5, 2025, 4:00:09 PM
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities Thorough knowledge of Maryland labor laws, collective bargaining regulations, and public education employment practices.Demonstrated success as a chief negotiator in a large organization.Ability to navigate the complex demands of negotiations with multiple associations in support of the MCPS core values, mission, and vision. Strong leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills.Excellent oral and written communication and human relations skills.Ability to develop and implement negotiation strategies and manage complex bargaining processes.Skilled at creative problem solving in order to build consensus across multiple stakeholder groups.Clear and persuasive oral and written communication skills, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy.Ability to creative innovative thinking and the capability to successfully implement strategy.Ability to recognize political and priority implications throughout the negotiation process. Proficiency to listen and accept feedback constructively. Possess high emotional intelligence skills.
Education, Training, And ExperienceMaster’s degree in Public Administration, Personnel, Labor Relations, or related field.Minimum of six (6) years’ experience as chief negotiator for a large organization, preferably in public education or a public agency. Experience in grievance and arbitration handling and contract administration.Juris Doctorate highly preferred.CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: None.