Labor Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

About PMA

The Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) is a nonprofit mutual benefit corporation that serves as the multi-employer bargaining representative for approximately 75 shipping lines, stevedore companies, and marine terminal operators at ports throughout California, Oregon, and Washington.

West Coast ports support approximately 9.2 million U.S. jobs and contribute 12.5% of U.S. GDP. PMA's primary mission is to negotiate and administer collective bargaining agreements with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) on behalf of its member companies, while also administering payroll and certain benefit programs.

PMA is headquartered in San Francisco, with offices in Oakland, Long Beach, Portland, Seattle, and Tacoma.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Northern California Labor Relations Director, the Labor Relations Representative supports the administration and interpretation of collective bargaining agreements and plays a key role in labor relations activities, including grievance handling, arbitration, contract administration, workforce planning, and labor-management collaboration.

Essential Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret collective bargaining agreements and provide guidance on the application of contract provisions, labor relations policies, and practices.
• Lead monthly labor-management committee meetings with ILWU representatives and PMA member companies.
• Prepare and distribute time-sensitive communications and coordinate labor relations meetings and events.
• Investigate grievances and disputes and recommend appropriate resolutions.
• Prepare and present employer positions during arbitration proceedings.
• Assist with the investigation of alleged contract violations involving longshore workers and prepare findings and recommendations.
• Compile, analyze, and report labor relations data, including grievances, arbitrations, mediations, and related activities.
• Generate and maintain routine reports from PMA databases.
• Monitor day-to-day administration of contract provisions related to wages, hours, and working conditions.
• Research and provide information on labor legislation, industry trends, labor market conditions, compensation practices, and employee benefits to support collective bargaining and labor relations initiatives.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent written, verbal, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
• Strong ability to build effective working relationships with union representatives, employers, and colleagues.
• Working knowledge of the ILWU-PMA Pacific Coast Longshore and Clerk Agreement and Pacific Coast Walking Boss/Foreman Agreement preferred.
• Sound judgment and discretion in handling confidential and sensitive information.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and commitment to professional growth.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; experience with enterprise systems such as Oracle is preferred.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Labor Relations, Political Science, or a related field required.
• Juris Doctor degree is a plus.
• Five or more years of labor relations experience preferred.
• Maritime industry experience is a plus.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation required.
• Must be able to obtain a valid TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification) card upon hire.

Work Environment

This position is based in downtown Oakland and requires regular interaction with PMA member companies, ILWU representatives, and other stakeholders. Occasional travel within Northern California is required. This is primarily an onsite position with eligibility to work remotely for up to two days per month.

Work Location

475 14th Street, Oakland, CA 94612

Compensation and Benefits

PMA offers a competitive compensation package, including:

• Healthcare coverage through the ILWU-PMA Welfare Plan with no employee premium contributions and low out-of-pocket costs.
• 401(k) plan with a discretionary employer match of:
  • 100% of the first 5% of eligible employee contributions; and
  • 50% of the next 10% of eligible employee contributions.
• Company-paid professional development, training, and industry conferences.
• Auto allowance.
• Discretionary annual bonus opportunity.

Equal Employment Opportunity

PMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected status under applicable law.