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Labor Relations Manager Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

The Director of Labor Relations is responsible for managing, negotiating, administering, and implementing contracts, agreements, bargaining/negotiations and collective bargaining agreements for the ...

The Director of Labor Relations is responsible for managing, negotiating, administering, and implementing contracts, agreements, bargaining/negotiations and collective bargaining agreements for the ...

Director of Labor Relations

Seattle, WA · On-site

$135K - $200K/yr

The Director of Labor Relations is responsible for managing, negotiating, administering, and implementing contracts, agreements, bargaining/negotiations and collective bargaining agreements for the ...

What does a Senior Labor Relations Partner at Swire Coca-Cola do? The Senior Labor Relations ... Represent the Company in all labor related activities including grievance management, escalation up ...

What does a Senior Labor Relations Partner at Swire Coca-Cola do? The Senior Labor Relations ... Represent the Company in all labor related activities including grievance management, escalation up ...

What does a Senior Labor Relations Partner at Swire Coca-Cola do? The Senior Labor Relations ... Represent the Company in all labor related activities including grievance management, escalation up ...

Senior Labor Relations Partner

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$120.14 - $157.68/hr

Provide project management and ownership for LR initiatives and process improvement opportunities * Assess needs and develop training specific to Labor Relations & Positive Employee Relations ...

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Labor Relations Manager information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$66.6K

$126.8K

$189.6K

How much do labor relations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for labor relations manager in Seattle, WA is $126,813.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,500.00 and $144,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a labor relations manager do?

A Labor Relations Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing the relationship between an organization and its employees, specifically focusing on matters related to labor unions and collective bargaining agreements. They work to resolve disputes, negotiate contracts, interpret labor laws, and ensure that company policies comply with relevant labor regulations. Their goal is to maintain productive working relationships while protecting the interests of both the employer and the employees.

What does a labor relations manager do?

Labor relations managers negotiate contracts and agreements between labor organizations or individual employees and their organization. As a labor relations manager, your primary duties involve researching industry data, handling all aspects of negotiations, and resolving labor disputes. Most labor relations managers work in the human resources department of a company. The career requires knowledge of labor laws, union practices, and bargaining procedures, as well as wage information for your industry. Additional qualifications include at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as business administration or human resources, prior management experience, and strong negotiation skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a labor relations manager, and why are they important?

To excel as a Labor Relations Manager, you need expertise in labor law, contract negotiation, and dispute resolution, typically supported by a degree in human resources, labor relations, or a related field. Familiarity with HR information systems (HRIS), collective bargaining agreement software, and relevant certifications such as SHRM or HRCI can be advantageous. Outstanding interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to communicate persuasively make a candidate stand out. These competencies are vital to maintain positive employer-employee relationships, ensure compliance, and achieve organizational goals through effective labor management.

How does a labor relations manager typically collaborate with both management and union representatives to resolve workplace disputes?

A Labor Relations Manager acts as a crucial liaison between company management and union representatives, aiming to foster effective communication and resolve workplace disputes efficiently. They participate in negotiations, facilitate meetings, and help interpret labor contracts to ensure both parties' concerns are addressed fairly. This role often requires balancing organizational goals with employee rights, making strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills essential. Successful collaboration builds trust and helps maintain a positive, productive workplace environment.

What is the difference between Labor Relations Manager vs Human Resources Specialist?

AspectLabor Relations ManagerHuman Resources Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in HR, labor relations, or related field; certifications like SHRM-CP or PHR are commonSame as Labor Relations Manager: bachelor’s degree, HR certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentFocuses on union negotiations, employee relations, and compliance within organizationsHandles recruitment, onboarding, employee benefits, and general HR functions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries with unionized workforces such as manufacturing, transportation, and public sectorUsed across various industries including corporate, healthcare, and retail

The main difference is that Labor Relations Managers specialize in union negotiations and employee relations within unionized environments, while Human Resources Specialists handle broader HR functions like recruitment and benefits. Both roles require similar credentials and are essential in organizations with or without union presence.

Is labor relations a stressful job?

Labor relations managers often work in high-pressure environments, as they handle negotiations, conflicts, and compliance issues between employers and employees. The role requires strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage complex and sometimes contentious situations, which can contribute to job stress.

What degree do you need for labor relations manager?

A labor relations manager typically needs a bachelor's degree in human resources, labor relations, business administration, or a related field. Some roles may prefer or require a master's degree or professional certifications in labor relations or HR management. Strong communication, negotiation skills, and knowledge of employment laws are also important for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Labor Relations jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Labor Relations jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Labor Relations Manager jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Labor Relations Manager jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Labor Relations Manager jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Labor Relations Manager jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Labor Relations Manager jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Labor Relations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Labor Relations Manager job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,813 per year, or $61 per hour.

Labor Relations Manager (Seattle)

Port of Seattle

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Port Of Seattle rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description - Labor Relations Manager (003208)

Location

Downtown Seattle

Organization

Labor Relations

Employee Status

Regular

Schedule

Full-time

Posting Expires

Mar 14, 2025, 6:59:00 AM

Minimum Salary

138,518.00

Maximum Salary

187,408.00

Salary offers will be made within the posted range. Placement within the range will be determined based on your similar work experience. The Port considers work experience to be similar if the scope and level of responsibility of your prior positions match the job being offered.

Some of what you'll be doing:
  • You will manage the frequent policy changes impacting represented employees from the development to the implementation stages using complex, defensible, bargaining strategy in accordance with the Port's obligations under RCW 41.56 and RCW 53.18.
  • You will negotiate collective bargaining agreements (CBA) in alignment with the Port's objectives and its obligations as a public employer.
  • You will facilitate and/or conduct defensible investigations into work performance and/or behavioral related issues of represented employees in alignment with the terms of their respective CBA and other Port policies.
  • You will represent the Port in grievance hearings, arbitrations, unfair labor practices, unit clarification proceedings, and representation hearings and challenges.
  • You will research and analyze changes and/or trends in public sector labor relations practices, laws, rules, regulations, and decisions.
  • You will draft, negotiate, and implement agreements including but not limited to Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), and settlement agreements.
  • You will provide training and guidance to managers and supervisors in supporting the consistent application and interpretation of collective bargaining agreements, policies, procedures, rules, and regulations.
  • You will draft and manage consistent, timely, professional communications with union representatives, shop stewards, business line leadership and senior Port leadership to foster the cooperation and trust between the Port, unions, and the Port's represented employees.
Who you are:
  • Experienced – You have six (6) years of labor relations experience including management consultation, labor agreement administration and implementation, and experience as a chief spokesperson/negotiator.
  • Desired – We hope you have a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources or Labor Relations. We also hope you have a Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certification or a Certified Labor Relations Professional (CLRP) certification.
  • Committed to Equity – You will apply equity and exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices in all aspects of the work. At the Port of Seattle, equity is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all Port employees.
  • Excellent Communicator – You have excellent written, verbal, and non-verbal communication skills and the ability to clearly, accurately, and persuasively present proposals and explain complex matters.
  • Problem Solver – You have strong analytical skills, critical thinking, and excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to foresee potential obstacles and proactively identify solutions and resolve issues.
  • Interpersonal – You have excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to develop relationships with union representatives, managers, employees, and colleagues.
  • Negotiator – You have strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills. You can handle extremely difficult or volatile situations/individuals effectively, and work with high conflict situations where employees and/or representatives are exhibiting strong emotions and verbiage.
What else you need to know:
  • Work Schedule – Your normal work schedule will be Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (40 hours per week). Slightly more flexible start and end times are available in this role. You may be required to respond during off shift hours to address any issues that could adversely impact Port operations.
  • Work Environment - This work will take place primarily in an office setting at Management’s discretion.
  • Washington State Residency Requirement – Employees must establish a residence in Washington state within 30 days of their first day of employment and must maintain a residence in Washington State during their employment with the Port of Seattle. If a position is eligible to telework, work performed while teleworking must be performed in Washington State.
Why you'll love it here:

The Port of Seattle offers an extensive benefits package that rewards our staff for their valuable contributions towards the Port‘s mission. In addition to the summary below, benefit details for non-represented positions can be found on the Port of Seattle‘s website. If the position is represented by a union, please refer to the “Collective Bargaining Agreement” or contact the appropriate Union Representative for specific information related to benefits and eligibility.

  • Healthcare – Medical, Dental, and Vision Care with options that work for you and your family.
  • Paid Vacation – Just about four weeks per year that increases with tenure to rest and rejuvenate.
  • Paid Sick Leave – At least one hour of sick leave for every 40 hours worked.
  • Holidays – More than ten days per year to celebrate with family and friends away from work.
  • Pension/Retirement Plans – A pension and additional savings plans to prepare for your future after the Port.
  • Getting to Work – From subsidized parking and a low-cost public transit card to alternative work arrangements giving you an opportunity to work hybrid.
  • Parental Leave – Six weeks of paid leave to spend with new additions to your immediate family.
  • Development – From tuition reimbursement, training, stretch assignments and internal internships, we support a learning culture.
  • Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion – The Port of Seattle values diversity as a source of innovation and strength. We are actively working across the organization to create a culture where all employees – regardless of race, gender, and other identities – succeed and reach their fullest potential.
  • Work-Life Balance – We provide the resources to help you create habits to be healthy and balanced.
  • Mission Driven – We are focused together in promoting economic opportunities and quality of life in the region by advancing trade, travel, commerce, and job creation in an equitable, accountable, and environmentally responsible manner.
Why the Port of Seattle:

Every role at the Port of Seattle is vital to our thriving community. We are a leader in moving people and cargo across the country and around the world. With facilities and property ranging in scope from a half-acre park to one of the largest airports and container terminals on the West Coast, we maximize the public assets in our portfolio with an eye toward best uses and environmental sustainability. Find out more here.

Our vision is to create a Port that mirrors – throughout its breadth of operations and services and within its leadership – the diversity of our communities, instill principles of equity into its culture, and ensures a fair and intentional distribution of opportunities to expand economic develop and quality of life for all in our region. Find out more about how our values RAISE us up and our commitment to equity.

The Port of Seattle is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer that values diverse perspectives and life experiences. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply, knowing decisions concerning the employment relationship will be made without regard to age, race, ethnicity, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, marital status, citizenship status, veteran status, the presence of any physical or mental disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law, regulations and ordinances.

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