Labor Relations Consultant Jobs
Labor Relations Consultant jobs are open across manufacturing, healthcare, public sector, and professional services, from entry-level analyst to senior consultant and director, with specializations in collective bargaining, grievance arbitration, and contract negotiation. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Our diverse and inclusive workforce of more than 7,000 employees play a key role in the success of San José, the heart of the Silicon Valley. All City of San José employees work together as one team to make San José a vibrant, innovative, and desirable place to live and work. Visit here to learn more about our One Team Leadership Values and Expectations, including quality and excellent customer service and here to learn more about San José.
The City of San José is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of San José is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at 408-535-1285, 711 (TTY), or via email at CityCareers@sanjoseca.gov.
About the Department
The City Manager's Office of Employee Relations (OER) provides strategic leadership that supports the Mayor and City Council and motivates the organization to deliver high quality services that meet the community's needs. The Office of Employee Relations operates under the leadership of the Employee Relations Director who reports to the City Manager. Supported by a staff of 11, the Office is responsible for all functions associated with labor negotiations; administration of labor contracts; investigation of employee performance, misconduct, and discrimination and harassment allegations; employee-related policy development and interpretation; disability accommodation; and training. OER also manages the City of San Jose's Whistleblower Hotline where City employees, customers, and residents can raise concerns about City services. For more information about the City Manager's Office of Employee Relations, please visit: https://www.sanjose.ca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/office-of-the-city-manager/employee-relations.
Position Duties
The City Manager's Office is currently seeking to fill one full-time Senior Executive Analyst (SEA) vacancy in the Office of Employee Relations (OER).
Salary range for this classification is: $117,433.68 - $179,397.40 annually. This salary range includes an approximate five percent (5%) ongoing non-pensionable compensation. Actual salary shall be determined by the final candidates' qualifications and experience.The SEA position is distinguished from an Executive Analyst I/II position primarily by the scope and complexity of their assignments and the ability to independently perform their work. The incumbent will be responsible for labor relations functions including: surveying other employers regarding pay and benefits; participating in various aspects of labor negotiations, including attending labor negotiation sessions, drafting proposals/correspondence, and performing cost analysis of proposals of varying complexity; researching, interpreting, and analyzing labor contracts; processing and responding to grievances according to the terms of each labor contract; and, participating in labor-management committee meetings. The incumbent will also be responsible for the following employee relations functions: conducting investigations involving allegations of employee misconduct; writing investigative reports; assisting departments with the disciplinary process as needed; consulting with and advising supervisors on employee performance and misconduct issues; developing, revising, and interpreting employee-related policies; and, giving oral presentations to small and large groups of employees and supervisors on employee relations issues.
This is an exciting opportunity for individuals with a passion for labor and employee relations in the public sector. The ideal candidate is self-directed, organized, dependable, flexible, and detail-oriented, with the ability to conduct complex, sensitive, and visible assignments. In addition, they are skilled communicators in both written and verbal formats with an ability to maintain the successful, collaborative, and constructive working relationships necessary to succeed in the City Manager's Office of Employee Relations. The successful candidate demonstrates individual leadership through strategic planning and analysis, continuous improvement, and collaboration. Finally, the ideal candidate will be enthusiastic, looking to grow and excel, thrive in a team environment, and be invested in San Jose's future.Minimum Qualifications
Education: A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Business or Public Administration, or closely related field.
Experience: Four years of professional level analytic and/or administrative experience.
**Acceptable Substitutions: A Master's Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration or related field is preferred, and can be substituted for one year of the required experience.
Form 700 Requirement
This position is designated under the City's Conflict of Interest Code and/or California Government Code Section 87200 and requires disclosure of certain financial interests through the Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700). Upon hire and annually each Spring, the incumbent must also file the Family Gift Reporting Form with Form 700, as required by the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC).
Other Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have an appreciation and passion for public service work and possess the following competencies, as demonstrated in past and current employment history. Desirable competencies for this position include:
Job Expertise - Demonstrates knowledge of and experience with applicable professional/technical principles and practices, Citywide and departmental procedures/policies and federal and state rules and regulations, including: government administration, contract administration, human resources administration, financial management and emergency management.Analytical Thinking - Approaches a problem of situation by using a logical, systematic, and sequential approach. Able to reliably determine the cost or a new benefit or program.
Collaboration - Develops networks and builds alliances; engages in cross-functional activities. Maintains a positive attitude in challenging situations.
Information Management - Demonstrates honesty, integrity, a strong work ethic, and the ability to appropriately handle very sensitive and confidential information.
Multi-Tasking - Can handle multiple projects and responsibilities simultaneously; has handled a wide variety of assignments in past and/or current position(s).
Problem Solving - Approaches a situation or problem by defining the problem or issue; determines the significance of the problem; collects information; uses logic and intuition to arrive at decisions or solutions to problems that achieve the desired outcome. Demonstrates the ability to evaluate information through the lens of City policies and/or labor contract language and then exercise sound, independent judgment.
Reliability - Completes quality work assignments in a timely and efficient manner; fulfills responsibilities and maintains confidentiality as appropriate.
Communication Skills - Effectively conveys information and expresses thoughts and facts clearly, orally and in writing; demonstrates effective use of listening skills; displays openness to other people's ideas and thoughts. Demonstrates the ability to present complicated concepts to small and large audiences unfamiliar with the subject matter.
Selection Process
The selection process will consist of an evaluation of the applicant's training and experience based on the application and responses to the "Job Specific Questions." Only the candidates whose backgrounds best match the position will be invited to proceed in the selection process. Additional phases of the selection process will consist of one or more interviews, one of which may include a practical/writing exercise.
If you have questions about the duties of this position or the selection or hiring process, please contact Hashona Braun at
hashona.braun@sanjoseca.gov.
.Additional Information:
Employment Eligibility: Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of San Jose will NOT sponsor, represent or sign any documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1-B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.
You must answer all job-specific questions to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applicants are expected to write their own essays/responses.
Please note that applications are currently not accepted through CalOpps or any other third party job board application system.
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple positions in this, or other divisions or departments. If you are interested in employment in this classification, you should apply to ensure you are considered for additional opportunities that may utilize the applicants from this recruitment.
Please allow adequate time to complete the application and submit before the deadline or the system may not save your application. If your online application was successfully submitted, you will receive an automatic confirmation email to the email address you provided. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE THE CONFIRMATION, please email CityCareers@sanjoseca.gov and we will research the status of your application.
AI and the Hiring Process
We recognize that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming part of daily life and can be a valuable tool for learning, research, and professional growth. We encourage candidates to use AI responsibly as a support in preparing application materials, live assessments, and interviews. However, we value authenticity, accuracy and truthfulness. Application responses and interview answers must reflect your own knowledge, skills, and experiences. While AI can supplement preparation, it cannot replace the originality and judgment we look for in our employees. This ensures fairness, transparency, and equity for all applicants in the hiring process.
Our diverse and inclusive workforce of more than 7,000 employees play a key role in the success of San José, the heart of the Silicon Valley. All City of San José employees work together as one team to make San José a vibrant, innovative, and desirable place to live and work. Visit here to learn more about our One Team Leadership Values and Expectations, including quality and excellent customer service and here to learn more about San José.
The City of San José is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of San José is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at 408-535-1285, 711 (TTY), or via email at CityCareers@sanjoseca.gov.
About the Department
The City Manager's Office of Employee Relations (OER) provides strategic leadership that supports the Mayor and City Council and motivates the organization to deliver high quality services that meet the community's needs. The Office of Employee Relations operates under the leadership of the Employee Relations Director who reports to the City Manager. Supported by a staff of 11, the Office is responsible for all functions associated with labor negotiations; administration of labor contracts; investigation of employee performance, misconduct, and discrimination and harassment allegations; employee-related policy development and interpretation; disability accommodation; and training. OER also manages the City of San Jose's Whistleblower Hotline where City employees, customers, and residents can raise concerns about City services. For more information about the City Manager's Office of Employee Relations, please visit: https://www.sanjose.ca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/office-of-the-city-manager/employee-relations.
Position Duties
The City Manager's Office is currently seeking to fill one full-time Senior Executive Analyst (SEA) vacancy in the Office of Employee Relations (OER).
Salary range for this classification is: $117,433.68 - $179,397.40 annually. This salary range includes an approximate five percent (5%) ongoing non-pensionable compensation. Actual salary shall be determined by the final candidates' qualifications and experience.The SEA position is distinguished from an Executive Analyst I/II position primarily by the scope and complexity of their assignments and the ability to independently perform their work. The incumbent will be responsible for labor relations functions including: surveying other employers regarding pay and benefits; participating in various aspects of labor negotiations, including attending labor negotiation sessions, drafting proposals/correspondence, and performing cost analysis of proposals of varying complexity; researching, interpreting, and analyzing labor contracts; processing and responding to grievances according to the terms of each labor contract; and, participating in labor-management committee meetings. The incumbent will also be responsible for the following employee relations functions: conducting investigations involving allegations of employee misconduct; writing investigative reports; assisting departments with the disciplinary process as needed; consulting with and advising supervisors on employee performance and misconduct issues; developing, revising, and interpreting employee-related policies; and, giving oral presentations to small and large groups of employees and supervisors on employee relations issues.
This is an exciting opportunity for individuals with a passion for labor and employee relations in the public sector. The ideal candidate is self-directed, organized, dependable, flexible, and detail-oriented, with the ability to conduct complex, sensitive, and visible assignments. In addition, they are skilled communicators in both written and verbal formats with an ability to maintain the successful, collaborative, and constructive working relationships necessary to succeed in the City Manager's Office of Employee Relations. The successful candidate demonstrates individual leadership through strategic planning and analysis, continuous improvement, and collaboration. Finally, the ideal candidate will be enthusiastic, looking to grow and excel, thrive in a team environment, and be invested in San Jose's future.Minimum Qualifications
Education: A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Business or Public Administration, or closely related field.
Experience: Four years of professional level analytic and/or administrative experience.
**Acceptable Substitutions: A Master's Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration or related field is preferred, and can be substituted for one year of the required experience.
Form 700 Requirement
This position is designated under the City's Conflict of Interest Code and/or California Government Code Section 87200 and requires disclosure of certain financial interests through the Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700). Upon hire and annually each Spring, the incumbent must also file the Family Gift Reporting Form with Form 700, as required by the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC).
Other Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have an appreciation and passion for public service work and possess the following competencies, as demonstrated in past and current employment history. Desirable competencies for this position include:
Job Expertise - Demonstrates knowledge of and experience with applicable professional/technical principles and practices, Citywide and departmental procedures/policies and federal and state rules and regulations, including: government administration, contract administration, human resources administration, financial management and emergency management.Analytical Thinking - Approaches a problem of situation by using a logical, systematic, and sequential approach. Able to reliably determine the cost or a new benefit or program.
Collaboration - Develops networks and builds alliances; engages in cross-functional activities. Maintains a positive attitude in challenging situations.
Information Management - Demonstrates honesty, integrity, a strong work ethic, and the ability to appropriately handle very sensitive and confidential information.
Multi-Tasking - Can handle multiple projects and responsibilities simultaneously; has handled a wide variety of assignments in past and/or current position(s).
Problem Solving - Approaches a situation or problem by defining the problem or issue; determines the significance of the problem; collects information; uses logic and intuition to arrive at decisions or solutions to problems that achieve the desired outcome. Demonstrates the ability to evaluate information through the lens of City policies and/or labor contract language and then exercise sound, independent judgment.
Reliability - Completes quality work assignments in a timely and efficient manner; fulfills responsibilities and maintains confidentiality as appropriate.
Communication Skills - Effectively conveys information and expresses thoughts and facts clearly, orally and in writing; demonstrates effective use of listening skills; displays openness to other people's ideas and thoughts. Demonstrates the ability to present complicated concepts to small and large audiences unfamiliar with the subject matter.
Selection Process
The selection process will consist of an evaluation of the applicant's training and experience based on the application and responses to the "Job Specific Questions." Only the candidates whose backgrounds best match the position will be invited to proceed in the selection process. Additional phases of the selection process will consist of one or more interviews, one of which may include a practical/writing exercise.
If you have questions about the duties of this position or the selection or hiring process, please contact Hashona Braun at
hashona.braun@sanjoseca.gov.
.Additional Information:
Employment Eligibility: Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of San Jose will NOT sponsor, represent or sign any documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1-B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.
You must answer all job-specific questions to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applicants are expected to write their own essays/responses.
Please note that applications are currently not accepted through CalOpps or any other third party job board application system.
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple positions in this, or other divisions or departments. If you are interested in employment in this classification, you should apply to ensure you are considered for additional opportunities that may utilize the applicants from this recruitment.
Please allow adequate time to complete the application and submit before the deadline or the system may not save your application. If your online application was successfully submitted, you will receive an automatic confirmation email to the email address you provided. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE THE CONFIRMATION, please email CityCareers@sanjoseca.gov and we will research the status of your application.
AI and the Hiring Process
We recognize that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming part of daily life and can be a valuable tool for learning, research, and professional growth. We encourage candidates to use AI responsibly as a support in preparing application materials, live assessments, and interviews. However, we value authenticity, accuracy and truthfulness. Application responses and interview answers must reflect your own knowledge, skills, and experiences. While AI can supplement preparation, it cannot replace the originality and judgment we look for in our employees. This ensures fairness, transparency, and equity for all applicants in the hiring process.
Labor Relations Consultant Jobs by Experience Level
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Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Education
- Government & Public Sector
- Healthcare & Medical Services
- Agriculture & Farming
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in labor relations consultant jobs.
- Bachelor's degree in labor relations, human resources, industrial relations, or a related field
- Experience negotiating or administering collective bargaining agreements with recognized unions
- Knowledge of the National Labor Relations Act and applicable state labor law
- Demonstrated experience managing grievance procedures through arbitration
- Proficiency with HRIS platforms and case management or document tracking systems
- Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification preferred
Tips for Your Labor Relations Consultant Job Search
Tailor your resume to the contract
Labor relations resumes should call out specific agreements you've negotiated, the union affiliations involved, and whether you worked in public or private sector. Hiring managers read those distinctions immediately and screen on them before anything else.
Highlight your arbitration and grievance experience
Many postings require demonstrated experience handling Step 3 grievances or arbitration hearings. List the number of cases you managed and the resolution outcomes, not just your general familiarity with the process.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists labor relations consultant openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Filter openings by sector before you apply
Public sector and private sector roles have fundamentally different statutory frameworks. Applying to a role in the wrong sector without addressing that gap signals a mismatch, so target your search by sector from the start and adjust your materials accordingly.
Prepare a CBA walk-through for interviews
Interviewers routinely ask you to walk through a collective bargaining agreement you helped negotiate or administer. Pick one with complexity, know the contested clauses, and be ready to explain how you reached resolution with the union.
Negotiate your offer using comparable scope
When countering an offer, anchor to the scope of agreements you've managed, unit size, and whether the role involves multi-site or multi-union environments. Those factors carry more weight in this field than general years of experience.
Labor Relations Consultant Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most labor relations consultants?
The companies hiring the most labor relations consultants right now include Spectrum, Kaiser Permanente, and California School Employees Association, with the largest share of openings in California, New York, and Illinois, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. Healthcare systems, large manufacturers, and state and local government agencies consistently generate the most sustained demand for this role.
How many labor relations consultant jobs are remote?
About 61% of labor relations consultant openings are fully remote or hybrid as of September 2026, with remote work most common in policy advisory, contract review, and training-focused roles. Positions that require on-site presence at union facilities, collective bargaining sessions, or arbitration hearings are far less likely to offer remote arrangements.
How do you become a labor relations consultant?
Start with a bachelor's degree in labor relations, industrial relations, or human resources, then build direct experience in employee relations or HR generalist roles where you interact with union representatives. Pursue formal exposure to collective bargaining by supporting negotiations as a junior team member. Earning a PHR or SPHR certification and developing a working knowledge of the National Labor Relations Act strengthens your candidacy substantially for consultant-level roles.
Can you get a labor relations consultant job with limited experience?
Entry points into the field typically include HR generalist or employee relations coordinator roles at unionized employers, where you gain exposure to grievance handling and contract administration before moving into a dedicated consultant title. Internships with labor law firms, union organizations, or public sector HR departments also provide credible foundations. Demonstrating familiarity with the collective bargaining process, even in a supporting capacity, matters more than years of experience at the outset.
What does the labor relations consultant interview process look like?
Most hiring processes involve an initial screening call focused on your sector background and union experience, followed by a panel interview with HR leadership and sometimes in-house counsel. Candidates are routinely asked to walk through a specific bargaining or grievance scenario in detail. Some employers include a written exercise where you analyze a contract clause or draft a management response to a union proposal. Final rounds may involve a meeting with the operations or legal team.
Where can I find and apply to labor relations consultant jobs?
You can find and apply to labor relations consultant jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers across the United States. Search the listings to find roles that match your sector background and experience level, then apply directly to each one that fits.
See All 125+ Labor Relations Consultant Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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