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Labor Relations Representative Jobs in California

KQED

Labor Relations Specialist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Title: Labor Relations Specialist Schedule Format - Location: Hybrid - San Francisco Pay ... Act as liaison between the organization and unions representing bargaining unit members with ...

KQED

Labor Relations Specialist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$93K - $140K/yr

Title: Labor Relations Specialist Schedule Format - Location: Hybrid - San Francisco Pay ... Act as liaison between the organization and unions representing bargaining unit members with ...

Sylvania

Labor Relations Manager (0991)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$123 - $165/hr

Essential Duties The duties specified below are representative of the range of duties assigned to the job code/class and are not intended to be an inclusive or exhaustive list. As the Labor Relations ...

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Labor Relations Representative information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$98.4K

$128.3K

How much do labor relations representative jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for labor relations representative in California is $98,384.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $118,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a labor relations representative?

As a labor relations representative, your main duties and responsibilities center around being an advocate on behalf of employees in a workplace, typically one that has been unionized. Your primary role is to engage in negotiation with management or the employer to collectively bargain for contracts and other union goals. You also help with the enforcement of these contracts or agreements to ensure that management is maintaining its deal with the workers. You also consult with rank and file workers and other union representatives to research and develop long-term strategies.

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

A Labor Relations Representative acts as a liaison between management and union representatives, working to ensure both sides adhere to collective bargaining agreements and labor laws. They regularly participate in meetings, facilitate negotiations, and mediate disputes to find mutually acceptable solutions. Open communication, active listening, and problem-solving are essential, as representatives often need to balance organizational goals with employee concerns. Building trust and maintaining professionalism with both parties is key to resolving issues efficiently and fostering a positive work environment.

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

To thrive as a Labor Relations Representative, you need a strong understanding of labor laws, collective bargaining, and conflict resolution, often supported by a degree in human resources, labor relations, or a related field. Familiarity with HR information systems, grievance tracking software, and knowledge of union contracts is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, negotiation abilities, and discretion are crucial for building trust and effectively mediating between management and employees. These skills ensure productive labor-management relationships, compliance with regulations, and the successful resolution of workplace disputes.

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

AspectLabor Relations RepresentativeHuman Resources Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in labor relations, HR, or related field; certifications like SHRM-CP are commonRequires a bachelor's degree in HR, business, or related field; SHRM-CP or PHR certifications are often preferred
Work EnvironmentPrimarily works with union negotiations, dispute resolution, and employee relations within unionized settingsFocuses on recruitment, onboarding, employee benefits, and policy implementation in various organizational settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing, public sector, and unionized industriesFound across all industries, especially in corporate, healthcare, and service sectors

While both roles involve employee relations and require HR-related credentials, Labor Relations Representatives specialize in union negotiations and dispute resolution within unionized environments. Human Resources Specialists handle a broader range of HR functions, including recruitment and policy management, across diverse industries.

What does a labor relations representative do?

A Labor Relations Representative acts as a liaison between management and employees, often focusing on unionized workplaces. Their main responsibilities include negotiating labor contracts, handling grievances, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and facilitating communication between labor unions and company management. They work to resolve conflicts, interpret labor agreements, and support positive employee relations. This role requires strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.

Is labor relations a stressful job?

Labor relations representatives often work in environments with high stakes, managing negotiations and resolving conflicts between employers and employees, which can be stressful. The role requires strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to handle tense situations regularly.
More about Labor Relations Representative jobs
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What cities in California are hiring for Labor Relations Representative jobs? Cities in California with the most Labor Relations Representative job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Labor Relations Representative jobs in CA? For Labor Relations Representative jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Labor Relations Representative jobs near you
Infographic showing various Labor Relations Representative job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,384 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Labor Relations Representative

Pacific Maritime Association

Oakland, CA • On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

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.