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Director Labor Relations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manager, Labor Relations Business Partnership

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$99K - $169K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Partners with the Director, Labor Relations Partnership to drive consistent, compliant, and effective administration of collective bargaining agreements and union relations programs. * Manage, coach ...

Labor Relations Manager

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$119K - $177K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Within parameters established by the Senior Director or Director Labor Relations, this position is accountable for supporting the goals and objectives of the enterprise regarding labor relations ...

Labor Relations Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

$109 - $163/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The position operates with a balance of independent judgment and alignment with senior Labor Relations and Legal leadership and reports to the Sr. Director Labor Relations. The successful candidate ...

Showing results 21-40

Director Labor Relations information

See salary details

$82K

$137.9K

$189.5K

How much do director labor relations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for director labor relations in the United States is $137,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $156,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director of labor relations do?

A Director of Labor Relations is responsible for managing the relationship between an organization and its employees, particularly in matters involving labor unions, collective bargaining agreements, and workplace policies. They negotiate labor contracts, resolve disputes, ensure compliance with labor laws, and often serve as the main liaison between management and employee representatives. Their goal is to foster a positive working environment while balancing the needs of both the employer and the workforce.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of labor relations?

To thrive as a Director of Labor Relations, you need deep knowledge of labor laws, collective bargaining, and organizational policy, usually backed by a degree in human resources, labor relations, or a related field. Familiarity with HR information systems, contract management software, and relevant certifications such as SHRM-SCP or SPHR are typically required. Strong negotiation, conflict resolution, and interpersonal communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for effectively managing labor negotiations, maintaining positive union relationships, and ensuring organizational compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by a director of labor relations in maintaining positive union-management relationships?

Directors of Labor Relations often navigate complex negotiations between management and union representatives, balancing organizational goals with employee concerns. Common challenges include addressing grievances promptly, managing contract negotiations under tight deadlines, and adapting to changes in labor laws or union expectations. Success in this role requires strong communication, conflict resolution skills, and the ability to build trust on both sides, often working closely with HR, legal teams, and operational leaders to ensure alignment and compliance.

What is the difference between Director Labor Relations vs Labor Relations Manager?

AspectDirector Labor RelationsLabor Relations Manager
CredentialsBachelor's degree; often advanced certifications in HR or labor lawBachelor's degree; relevant HR or labor law certifications
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, policy development, senior management collaborationOperational focus, employee negotiations, day-to-day labor issues
Employer & Industry UsageLarge corporations, unionized industries, HR departmentsMid-sized companies, unionized workplaces, HR teams

The Director Labor Relations typically handles high-level strategy, policy, and negotiations with unions, working closely with senior management. In contrast, the Labor Relations Manager focuses on implementing policies, managing employee relations, and conducting negotiations at the operational level. Both roles require knowledge of labor laws and strong negotiation skills, but the Director role is more strategic and leadership-oriented.

What cities are hiring for Director Labor Relations jobs?

Cities with the most Director Labor Relations job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Labor Relations jobs?

The most popular types of Labor Relations jobs are:

What states have the most Director Labor Relations jobs?

States with the most job openings for Director Labor Relations jobs include:

Infographic showing various Director Labor Relations job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,916 per year, or $66.3 per hour.

Senior Director, Labor Relations, Field Operations

MTA Headquarters

New York, NY

$145K - $182K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

JOB TITLE:

Senior Director, Labor Relations, Field Operations

DEPT/DIV:

Labor Relations

SUPERVISOR:                    

Deputy Chief Labor Relations

WORK LOCATION:

2 Broadway, New York, NY 10004

HOURS OF WORK:

8:30 am – 5:00 pm (7.5 hours/day) or as required

FULL/PART-TIME

FULL

SALARY RANGE:

$145,615 - $182,019

DEADLINE:

Until filled

This position is eligible for telework which is currently one day per week. New hires are eligible to apply 30 days after their effective date of hire.

Opening:

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is North America's largest transportation network, serving a population of 15.3 million people across a 5,000-square-mile travel area surrounding New York City, Long Island, southeastern New York State, and Connecticut. The MTA network comprises the nation’s largest bus fleet and more subway and commuter rail cars than all other U.S. transit systems combined. MTA strives to provide a safe and reliable commute, excellent customer service, and rewarding opportunities.

Job Summary:

This position is accountable for promoting a positive labor-management relationship directing the activities of the Directors of Labor Relations, Field Operations for the Department of Buses, Department of Paratransit and various Operations Support Divisions, including but not limited to Traffic Checking Operations. This position will provide guidance and direction to Senior Management of the Departments and their Divisions on discipline, contract interpretation and Authority policies and procedures, to assure consistent applications of principles of progressive discipline, as well as Authority rules, contracts and procedures.

Responsibilities:

  • Directs and supervises the daily activities of Directors of Labor Relations, Field Operations for the Department of Buses, Department of Paratransit and various Operations Support Divisions, including but not limited to Traffic Checking Operations under the direction of the Deputy Chief, Labor Relations.
  • Directs the administration of high-volume labor dispute resolution caseload to ensure implementation and proper administration of the progressive discipline system and promote fair and equitable treatment of all employees within that system. Supervises the preparation and handling of disciplinary charges involving alleged violations of Agency rules, regulations and policies. Resolves union and employee grievances and complaints through negotiated grievance procedures.
  • Gives direction and guidance to Department and Division Heads as well as field management for the Department of Buses, Department of Paratransit and operations support divisions on wide variety of labor relations issues and applicable negotiated labor agreements to facilitate business objectives and avoid serious adverse consequences.
  • Directs training of Labor Relations team, departmental management and supervision in the proper implementation and administration of negotiated labor agreements for multiple bargaining units.
  • Assist with development of divisional proposals for collective bargaining to achieve optimum settlements.
  • Serves as management member for Tripartite Arbitration proceedings.
  • Select, develop and motivate personnel within the department. Provide career development for subordinates. Provide prompt and effective coaching and counseling. Responsible for discipline/termination of employees when necessary. Review performance of staff. Create a professional environment that respects individual differences and enables all employees to develop and contribute to their full potential.
  • Coordinate responses to information requests from various stakeholders.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

  • An equivalent combination of education and experience from an accredited college may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Must have litigation experience as Labor Attorney.
  • Must have knowledge of Labor Law and/or Civil Service Laws, extensive knowledge of rules and regulations, working conditions and contracts for NYC transit and MaBSTOA.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal and negotiations skills.
  • Excellent organizational and presentation skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with all internal levels within a given organization, including the MTA Board.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact well with external agencies. External agencies may include the Governor’s Office for New York State, New York City government, elected and other public officials, as well as any staff located at other federal or state agencies or authorities.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a high-profile, high-pressure environment effectively.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with key internal and/or external stakeholders.
  • Must have strong managerial skills to effectively direct a staff of professional and technical employees in implementing the short- and long-term goals and direction for the area of responsibility.
  • Demonstrated ability to complete short- and long-term projects effectively and as efficiently as possible.
  • Demonstrated analytical capabilities and quantitative skills.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or comparable applications, i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
  • Proficient in contract and policy implementation and administration.

Required Education and Experience:

  • JD in Labor Relations, Public Administration, Law or an equivalent combination of education and experience from an accredited college may be considered in lieu of a degree or Master’s degree in Arts/Sciences (MA/MS) in a related field.
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in Labor Relations or related field in a large, multi-faceted, fast-paced organization or governmental entity.
  • Minimum 6 years of managerial/leadership role in a large, multifaceted, fast paced organization or governmental entity or minimum 6 years of experience as a Director of Labor relations in a large, multifaceted, fast paced organization or governmental entity.
  • Admission to the Bar of the State of New York and Member in good standing.

The Following is/are preferred:

  • Attainment of or in the process of attaining specific functional licenses or certifications in area of specialty if applicable.
  • Familiarity with the MTA’s policies and procedures.
  • Familiarity with the MTA’s collective bargaining procedures.
  • Experience in a large complex unionized work environment.

Other Information

May need to work outside of normal work hours (i.e., evenings and weekends)

Travel may be required to other MTA locations or other external sites.

According to the New York State Public Officers Law & the MTA Code of Ethics, all employees who hold a policymaking position must file an Annual Statement of Financial Disclosure (FDS) with the NYS Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government (the “Commission”).

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including those concerning veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members, to apply.