Labor Relations Director Jobs
Labor Relations Director jobs are open across manufacturing, healthcare, education, transportation, and government, at every level from senior manager to chief human resources officer, with specializations in collective bargaining, grievance arbitration, and union contract administration. Find a role that fits from the openings 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 Director Jobs by Experience Level
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Find Labor Relations Director JobsLabor Relations Director Job Market
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 director jobs.
- Bachelor's or master's degree in labor relations, human resources, or employment law
- Demonstrated experience leading collective bargaining negotiations with recognized unions
- Working knowledge of the National Labor Relations Act and applicable state labor statutes
- Experience managing grievance procedures through arbitration at all steps
- Proficiency with HRIS platforms and labor contract management software
- Professional certification such as SPHR, PLRP, or equivalent credential preferred
Tips for Your Labor Relations Director Job Search
Quantify your bargaining outcomes concretely
Hiring managers want proof, not process. Frame your resume achievements around measurable results: contracts ratified, grievances resolved at step two before arbitration, or labor cost changes tied to agreements you negotiated. Vague language about 'managing relationships' won't move you forward.
Tailor applications to union density
A heavily unionized manufacturer and a partially organized healthcare system need very different skills. Read each posting for whether the role is primarily about active contract negotiations or building a non-union relations strategy, then mirror that language in your cover letter and resume summary.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists labor relations director openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Earn a SPHR or PLRP before you apply
Many postings for this level screen for the Senior Professional in Human Resources credential or the Professional in Labor Relations and Employment Practice certification. If you don't hold one yet, note active enrollment in your application materials so screeners don't filter you out prematurely.
Prepare a case study for the panel interview
Expect a multi-person panel including general counsel and operations leadership, not just HR. Prepare a two-minute walkthrough of a real arbitration or impasse situation you navigated, covering the dispute, your strategy, and the resolution. Panels reward candidates who can present structured reasoning under pressure.
Counter slow offers with a competing deadline
Director-level offers in this field often stall for weeks while legal reviews the contract language. If you have a second offer or an internal deadline, communicate it professionally in writing to the hiring manager, not HR alone. Decision-makers have authority to accelerate timelines that HR coordinators do not.
Labor Relations Director Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most labor relations directors?
The companies hiring the most labor relations directors 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. Manufacturing, healthcare systems, and large public-sector employers consistently account for the highest volume of postings.
How many labor relations director jobs are remote?
About 61% of labor relations director openings are fully remote or hybrid as of September 2026, though the majority of roles still require on-site presence for bargaining sessions and grievance hearings. The sub-areas most commonly offered remotely include policy development, compliance oversight, and roles at organizations without active union contracts.
How do you become a labor relations director?
Most labor relations directors build their path by starting in HR generalist or employee relations roles, then moving into specialist positions focused on union environments or labor compliance. Completing a graduate program in labor relations or employment law strengthens your candidacy significantly. From there, leading your first contract negotiation as a manager or senior specialist is the most direct bridge to a director title.
Can you get a labor relations director role with limited direct experience?
It's possible but requires a deliberate pivot strategy. Candidates from employment law, HR business partnering in unionized settings, or labor compliance often succeed by emphasizing transferable skills like grievance resolution and regulatory interpretation. Pursuing the Professional in Labor Relations and Employment Practice credential and seeking out interim or acting director assignments at smaller organizations can close the experience gap quickly.
What does the labor relations director interview process look like?
The process typically runs three to four rounds. An initial screen with HR is followed by a panel interview with the CHRO, general counsel, and sometimes a COO or CFO. Finalists are often asked to present a case study or respond to a negotiation scenario in real time. Reference checks at this level frequently include direct calls to counterparts at previous unions or employers you negotiated against.
Where can I find and apply to labor relations director jobs?
You can find and apply to labor relations director jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Search the listings for roles that match your industry background and negotiation experience, then apply directly to each position that fits. New openings are added regularly, so checking back frequently gives you an edge on recently posted roles.
See All 125+ Labor Relations Director Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Labor Relations Director Jobs