Labor Relations Consultant Jobs for OPT Students
Labor Relations Consultant jobs are available to F-1 OPT students with degrees in human resources, industrial relations, labor economics, or a related field. Your OPT work authorization must be directly related to your degree. Most roles require strong knowledge of collective bargaining, employment law, and workplace dispute resolution.
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Under the general direction of the Labor Relations Director for Employee and Labor Relations (ELR), this role provides labor relations support to management by representing UC Davis in grievances, arbitrations, administrative hearings, labor actions, bargaining, and meet and discuss/confer sessions. In handling grievances, complaints, and arbitrations, this role is responsible for reviewing and analyzing the merits of the complaint, identifying defense strategies, interviewing and preparing witnesses, and representing the University at various types of hearings. This position also responds to demonstrations on campus, advises campus managers and supervisors on employment and labor issues, and conducts campus training. In addition, this position assures consistent application of collective bargaining agreements and agreed upon labor relations philosophy to assigned contractual and non-exclusively represented units.
RECRUITMENT PERIOD ONE MONTH: Applicants will be screened after two weeks; and then on a weekly basis. The position can be filled prior to the removal date.
Apply By Date: April 6, 2026
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
- J.D. or pending J.D. (employment or labor law background preferred) or equivalent work experience.
- Experience practicing law in a trial setting, representing clients at administrative hearings or skills acting as management advocate in grievances, arbitration, unfair labor practice charges, and meet and discuss/consult sessions, including preparing witnesses, examination and cross-examination, and oral opening, closing, and motions.
- Knowledge of the Higher Education Employer-Employee Relations Act (HEERA) or other public sector labor laws, including: scope of bargaining, contract compliance, standards of unilateral changes, union notice requirements, and public sector labor union behavior. This includes knowledge of the Information Practices Act, Public Records Act or HEERA requirements for information release, including release of personnel type records, creation of data for bargaining.
- Knowledge of Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) administrative procedures for unfair labor practice charges, unit modifications, and unit requests for recognition; as well as skills writing clear, concise, analytical, legally correct, accurate and persuasive briefs; appeals, motions, settlement agreements, and management positions.
- General knowledge of labor and employment laws, including other public sector labor laws, National Labor Relations Act, Labor Code, Fair Labor Standards Act, etc., including recent developments and practices, applicability to the public sector, desirability to implement through contracts, and probable impact on arbitration decisions.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience using University applications.
- Knowledge of UCD Staff Personnel Policies (PSS & MSP) and existing union contracts including thorough knowledge of the various grievance processes and the standards for decision making in each process.
- Skills functioning in a demanding environment to resolve conflict/confrontation situations among emotionally distressed and frequently uncooperative parties and working effectively and sensitively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives to build mutual respect, fairness, and equity.
- Skills analyzing labor relations information, data, problems, practices, or procedures to define problems and objectives, consider alternative solutions and consequences, and propose solutions. This requires analytical, problem solving, and communication skills.
- Computer skills including Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
Key Responsibilities
- 35% - Complaint Management
- 30% - Contract Administration, Negotiations, Local Bargaining
- 25% - Relations With Employee Unions
- 10% - Staff Support/Training
Department Overview
The Labor Relations unit is dedicated to creating and sustaining a positive work environment. We work to effectively communicate with the campus community on issues regarding collective bargaining, grievance processes, changes in labor law and more. We enhance understanding and create rapid solutions to other issues such like arbitrations, unfair labor practice charges and complaints to state agencies.
POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $94,700.00 - $177,300.00/year (Department budgeted salary range: $94,700 - $120,000/yr. Commensurate with experience.)
- Salary Frequency: Annual
- Salary Grade: 24
- UC Job Title: LABOR REL REPR 4
- UC Job Code: 000495
- Number of Positions: 1
- Appointment Type: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100%
- Shift (Work Schedule): M - F 8 AM - 5 PM
- Location: Davis, CA
- Union Representation: No
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)
Benefits
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page. If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
- Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
- Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
- Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here
Physical Demands
- Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Never 0 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Environmental Demands
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Never 0 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Never 0 Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Never 0 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Never 0 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Never 0 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Never 0 Hours
Mental Demands
- Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Communication skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Work Environment
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment. Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together. As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here.
The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role - or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement.
YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
Job Summary
Under the general direction of the Labor Relations Director for Employee and Labor Relations (ELR), this role provides labor relations support to management by representing UC Davis in grievances, arbitrations, administrative hearings, labor actions, bargaining, and meet and discuss/confer sessions. In handling grievances, complaints, and arbitrations, this role is responsible for reviewing and analyzing the merits of the complaint, identifying defense strategies, interviewing and preparing witnesses, and representing the University at various types of hearings. This position also responds to demonstrations on campus, advises campus managers and supervisors on employment and labor issues, and conducts campus training. In addition, this position assures consistent application of collective bargaining agreements and agreed upon labor relations philosophy to assigned contractual and non-exclusively represented units.
RECRUITMENT PERIOD ONE MONTH: Applicants will be screened after two weeks; and then on a weekly basis. The position can be filled prior to the removal date.
Apply By Date: April 6, 2026
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
- J.D. or pending J.D. (employment or labor law background preferred) or equivalent work experience.
- Experience practicing law in a trial setting, representing clients at administrative hearings or skills acting as management advocate in grievances, arbitration, unfair labor practice charges, and meet and discuss/consult sessions, including preparing witnesses, examination and cross-examination, and oral opening, closing, and motions.
- Knowledge of the Higher Education Employer-Employee Relations Act (HEERA) or other public sector labor laws, including: scope of bargaining, contract compliance, standards of unilateral changes, union notice requirements, and public sector labor union behavior. This includes knowledge of the Information Practices Act, Public Records Act or HEERA requirements for information release, including release of personnel type records, creation of data for bargaining.
- Knowledge of Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) administrative procedures for unfair labor practice charges, unit modifications, and unit requests for recognition; as well as skills writing clear, concise, analytical, legally correct, accurate and persuasive briefs; appeals, motions, settlement agreements, and management positions.
- General knowledge of labor and employment laws, including other public sector labor laws, National Labor Relations Act, Labor Code, Fair Labor Standards Act, etc., including recent developments and practices, applicability to the public sector, desirability to implement through contracts, and probable impact on arbitration decisions.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience using University applications.
- Knowledge of UCD Staff Personnel Policies (PSS & MSP) and existing union contracts including thorough knowledge of the various grievance processes and the standards for decision making in each process.
- Skills functioning in a demanding environment to resolve conflict/confrontation situations among emotionally distressed and frequently uncooperative parties and working effectively and sensitively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives to build mutual respect, fairness, and equity.
- Skills analyzing labor relations information, data, problems, practices, or procedures to define problems and objectives, consider alternative solutions and consequences, and propose solutions. This requires analytical, problem solving, and communication skills.
- Computer skills including Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
Key Responsibilities
- 35% - Complaint Management
- 30% - Contract Administration, Negotiations, Local Bargaining
- 25% - Relations With Employee Unions
- 10% - Staff Support/Training
Department Overview
The Labor Relations unit is dedicated to creating and sustaining a positive work environment. We work to effectively communicate with the campus community on issues regarding collective bargaining, grievance processes, changes in labor law and more. We enhance understanding and create rapid solutions to other issues such like arbitrations, unfair labor practice charges and complaints to state agencies.
POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $94,700.00 - $177,300.00/year (Department budgeted salary range: $94,700 - $120,000/yr. Commensurate with experience.)
- Salary Frequency: Annual
- Salary Grade: 24
- UC Job Title: LABOR REL REPR 4
- UC Job Code: 000495
- Number of Positions: 1
- Appointment Type: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100%
- Shift (Work Schedule): M - F 8 AM - 5 PM
- Location: Davis, CA
- Union Representation: No
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)
Benefits
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page. If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
- Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
- Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
- Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here
Physical Demands
- Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Sitting - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Never 0 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Never 0 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Environmental Demands
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Never 0 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Never 0 Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Never 0 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Never 0 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Never 0 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Never 0 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Never 0 Hours
Mental Demands
- Sustained attention and concentration - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Communication skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Work Environment
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
Special Requirements – Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment. Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together. As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here.
The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role - or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement.
YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
How to Get Visa Sponsorship as a Labor Relations Consultant
Target employers with unionized workforces
Large manufacturers, healthcare systems, transit authorities, and universities maintain active labor relations teams. These organizations hire consultants regularly and are more experienced with work authorization processes than smaller, non-union employers.
Highlight bilingual or multilingual capabilities
Employers with diverse, multilingual workforces specifically seek labor relations professionals who communicate across language barriers. This is a concrete differentiator that addresses a real business need and can make OPT sponsorship a straightforward decision for hiring managers.
Pursue SHRM or LERA credentials before your search
Earning a SHRM-CP or joining the Labor and Employment Relations Association signals professional seriousness. Credentials help you stand out in a field where most candidates are domestic hires and employers may be unfamiliar with OPT authorization.
Approach employer-side law firms and HR consulting firms
Management-side labor law firms and HR consulting practices hire Labor Relations Consultants to support client engagements. These employers frequently work with international talent and often have established processes for navigating OPT and subsequent H-1B sponsorship.
Track your OPT end date and STEM extension eligibility
Standard OPT lasts 12 months. If your degree is in a STEM-designated program such as industrial-organizational psychology or economics, you may qualify for a 24-month extension, giving employers a longer horizon and making sponsorship conversations more practical.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students legally work as Labor Relations Consultants?
Yes, provided the role is directly related to your degree field. A position in labor relations, employee relations, or dispute resolution typically satisfies the OPT employment requirement for graduates in human resources, industrial relations, labor economics, or a closely related discipline. Document the connection between your coursework and job duties in case your DSO or USCIS requests clarification.
Do Labor Relations Consultant employers commonly sponsor visas after OPT?
Sponsorship varies by employer type. Large corporations, government contractors, and management-side consulting firms are the most consistent sponsors because they have dedicated HR and legal infrastructure. Smaller boutique firms may be willing but less experienced with the process. Searching for Labor Relations Consultant roles on Migrate Mate filters for employers who are open to sponsoring international candidates, which narrows your list considerably.
Does a Labor Relations Consultant role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
Most Labor Relations Consultant positions qualify as specialty occupations because they typically require at least a bachelor's degree in human resources, labor relations, or a related field. Roles that involve contract negotiation, grievance arbitration, or employment law compliance are the strongest cases. Roles framed as general HR generalist work may face more scrutiny, so job title and listed duties on the offer letter matter.
Can I work as an independent contractor or freelance Labor Relations Consultant on OPT?
Self-employment is permitted on OPT, but the rules are strict. You must be actively engaged in work related to your degree, and you cannot simply hold yourself out as available. You need a verifiable business structure, contracts with clients, and work that directly uses your academic training. Discuss the specifics with your DSO before accepting any freelance or consulting engagements to confirm you remain in valid status.
How does the 90-day unemployment limit affect OPT students in labor relations roles?
F-1 OPT students may not accumulate more than 90 days of unemployment during the standard OPT period. Labor relations roles can take time to secure because hiring cycles in this field often involve multiple rounds and committee decisions. Starting your search early, maintaining part-time or contract work in a related capacity, and using your remaining OPT days strategically all help you stay within the unemployment limit while pursuing full-time positions.
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