Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service – Albany, NY

Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service: Albany Field Office

Agency Mission

The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) maintains a field station in Albany within the Leo W. O’Brien Federal Building. Established as an independent agency of the U.S. government in 1947, the FMCS is dedicated to preserving promoting labor-management peace and cooperation. Its primary mission is to prevent or minimize work stoppages—such as strikes and lockouts—that could disrupt the free flow of commerce. The agency provides neutral, third-party assistance to unions and employers during the negotiation of collective bargaining agreements. Unlike regulatory bodies like the NLRB which enforce laws, the FMCS relies on persuasion, communication, and problem-solving techniques to help parties reach voluntary agreements.

Services Offered

The Albany office serves the Capital Region’s labor market with a variety of conflict resolution services:

• Collective Bargaining Mediation: Mediators assist labor and management in bridging gaps during contract negotiations to avoid operational disruptions.
• Grievance Mediation: A voluntary process used to resolve disputes over the interpretation or application of an existing contract, often serving as a faster and cheaper alternative to arbitration.
• Relationship Development Training: The agency offers training programs designed to improve the long-term working relationship between union and management representatives.
• Education and Outreach: providing guidance on best practices in dispute resolution and collaborative problem solving.

Location and Access

The FMCS operates out of the Leo W. O’Brien Federal Building at 1 Clinton Square (intersection of North Pearl Street and Clinton Avenue). As a federal facility, strictly enforced security measures are in place. Visitors must present valid government identification and pass through metal detectors and x-ray screening to enter the building. While the mediators are often out in the field conducting sessions at off-site locations, this office serves as their administrative base.