Ok-Jellyfish-3149's journey

Applied at University Hospital for Nutrition/Food Services

I recently discovered that I've been blacklisted from reemployment at a large University Hospital system where I worked for five years in Nutrition/Food Services. Two years ago, I left the job on what I thought were good terms after giving a proper two-week notice. However, when I tried to apply back, I was instantly rejected by their ATS. A friend who works there checked the HR system and found that my former Director marked me as "Not Eligible for Rehire." It seems that I’m being given bad references, as I’ve also been shut out of another major health network in my city. The issue stems from a Union grievance I filed before I resigned. My department was severely understaffed, and management pressured me to change my schedule multiple times, which I refused due to my reliance on my husband's work schedule for transportation. They forced the changes anyway and made my schedule chaotic while others had fixed times. Feeling targeted, I involved the Union, and I suspect this "Do Not Rehire" status is retaliation for that. Currently, I’m studying for my Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) certification to pivot back into Inpatient Pharmacy. I have a few questions: 1. For HR professionals, how can I get this "Not Eligible for Rehire" status removed? Is there leverage since this seems like retaliation? My friend is casually asking HR, but should I prepare a formal appeal? 2. For those in Pharmacy, if I get my PTCB certification and apply for a role within the same hospital system, can the Pharmacy Hiring Manager override this blacklist? 3. General advice on dealing with a toxic ex-boss who might be giving bad references would also be appreciated. Any help would be greatly appreciated!