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Labor Relations Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Counsel, Labor-East Coast

Washington, DC · On-site

$158K - $214K/yr

Develop and deliver labor relations training, including best practices related to policies, procedures, grievance prevention, and union-management relations * Advise on internal investigations ...

A Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Labor Relations, Human Resources Management, or a closely related field is preferred. * A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible ...

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Labor Relations information

See Reston, VA salary details

$61K

$116.1K

$173.5K

How much do labor relations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for labor relations in Reston, VA is $116,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,800.00 and $132,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is labor relations?

Labor relations refer to the interactions between employers and employees, particularly regarding the negotiation and enforcement of collective bargaining agreements, workplace conditions, and dispute resolution. Professionals in labor relations often work to ensure compliance with labor laws, facilitate communication between management and unions, and help resolve conflicts that arise in the workplace. Their goal is to foster a productive work environment while protecting the rights and interests of both employees and employers.

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

Labor Relations specialists act as key intermediaries between management and union representatives, facilitating communication and negotiation during disputes or contract discussions. They often organize and participate in meetings, clarify contract terms, and mediate disagreements to ensure both parties' concerns are addressed fairly and within legal guidelines. This role requires strong interpersonal and negotiation skills, as well as a thorough understanding of labor laws and collective bargaining agreements. Working closely with HR, legal teams, and union leaders, Labor Relations specialists help maintain a productive and cooperative work environment.

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

To thrive in Labor Relations, you need a solid understanding of labor laws, contract negotiation, and conflict resolution, typically supported by a degree in human resources or industrial relations. Familiarity with HR information systems (HRIS), collective bargaining software, and relevant certifications like SHRM or PHR is often expected. Strong interpersonal skills, diplomacy, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These capabilities are crucial for fostering positive employer-employee relationships, ensuring legal compliance, and facilitating productive workplace negotiations.

What is the difference between Labor Relations vs Human Resources?

AspectLabor RelationsHuman Resources
Primary FocusManaging employer-union relationships, collective bargaining, labor agreementsEmployee recruitment, onboarding, benefits, compliance, and employee relations
Work EnvironmentUnionized workplaces, industries with collective bargainingVarious industries, non-unionized settings
Required CredentialsLabor relations certifications, labor law knowledgeHR certifications, general management or business background
Employer UsageLarge organizations with unionized employeesMost organizations, including non-unionized

While both roles involve employee management, Labor Relations primarily focuses on union negotiations and collective bargaining, whereas Human Resources handles overall employee management, policies, and benefits. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and professionals to each area.

What degree do you need for labor relations?

A bachelor's degree in labor relations, human resources, industrial relations, or a related field is typically required for labor relations roles. Advanced positions may prefer or require a master's degree or relevant certifications such as the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP. Strong communication, negotiation skills, and knowledge of employment laws are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Labor Relations jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Labor Relations jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Labor Relations jobs in Reston, VA?

For Labor Relations jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Labor Relations jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Labor Relations jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Labor Relations jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Labor Relations job openings:

Infographic showing various Labor Relations job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,077 per year, or $55.8 per hour.

Human Resources Specialist (Employee/Labor Relations)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$143K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

This position is part of the Defense Human Resources Activity. The incumbent will be responsible for planning, developing and coordinating Department of Defense (DoD) wide projects and policies in the area of employee relations, including employee appeals, discipline and performance management.Qualifications:You may qualify at the GS-14, if you fulfill the following qualifications:
A. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level in the Federal service:
  • Expert experience writing and developing strategic guidance and evaluating/reviewing policy and program revisions to new and/or existing legislation for proposed legislative changes that impact an agency in the areas of labor and employee relations.
  • Expert experience in applying a broad range of advanced employee relations laws, regulations, principles, precedents, and policy in order to serve as an agency or equivalent level senior advisor.
  • Expert experience in analyzing and solving complex and sensitive problems and issues, in order to resolve conflicting laws or other requirements involving vague and untested areas of case laws, where policy decisions and case strategy guidance have impact across the Department.
  • Expert experience consulting and providing guidance as a technical expert in labor and employees relations matters such as collective bargaining and negotiations, grievances, employee discipline, performance management, awards, and third party processes.
  • Expert experience developing and delivering innovative and strategic solutions to policy problems in labor and employee relations, including the deployment of training and process change.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education:Substitution of education may not be used in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level.
Employment Type: OTHER

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