Assistant Director, CAA

Pacific Maritime Association•Portland, OR
•$125,000 - $175,000•Hybrid

About The Position

This labor relations role requires strong research, communication, judgment, and collaboration. The Assistant Director reports to the Director, Contract Administration, and Arbitration in Oakland. Under the direction of senior leadership, the role supports implementation of labor relations initiatives and consistent administration of the ILWU-PMA Pacific Coast Longshore and Clerks Agreement (PCL&CA) and the Pacific Coast Walking Bosses and Foremen’s Agreement (PCWB&FA). The role primarily supports local area grievance administration and arbitration preparation, while assisting with selected coast matters as assigned. The Assistant Director provides research on contract issues, applies arbitration precedents, supports contract interpretation, and assists PMA staff and member company representatives with local labor relations matters. The role also supports implementation of the Technology Framework and related automation initiatives, arbitration case management, and preparation of research and materials for coastwide labor relations and bargaining activities.

Requirements

  • Working knowledge of the ILWU-PMA Pacific Coast Longshore and Clerks Agreement, Pacific Coast Walking Bosses/Foremen Agreement, dispatching procedures, registration rules, and grievance procedures.
  • Experience administering grievances and preparing arbitration matters.
  • Ability to clearly communicate the employer position on collective bargaining agreement matters.
  • Knowledge of applicable labor and employment laws, including the National Labor Relations Act.
  • Strong written, verbal, interpersonal, research, and teamwork skills.
  • Professional and practical approach to problem solving.
  • Sound judgment and discretion when handling confidential information and sensitive matters.
  • Ability to adapt to changing priorities and sustain productivity in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to manage multiple deadlines with accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Ability to analyze complex issues and apply sound judgment.
  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in business administration or a related field.
  • 5+ years of labor relations experience, including grievance administration, arbitration preparation, contract interpretation, and research.
  • Strong computer skills, including Oracle and Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Nice To Haves

  • JD is a plus.

Responsibilities

  • Research collective bargaining agreements, arbitration decisions, and related materials to support contract interpretation and labor relations initiatives.
  • Administer local grievances and support consistent application of contractual provisions, grievance procedures, and arbitration precedents.
  • Support implementation of the Technology Framework and related automation initiatives under the direction of senior leadership.
  • Prepare local arbitration matters, including research, exhibits, case summaries, arguments, and coordination with PMA staff and member companies. Assist with coast arbitrations as assigned.
  • Prepare time-sensitive communications and coordinate meetings with ILWU locals and PMA member companies.
  • Support implementation of contract provisions and established labor relations procedures.
  • Research labor relations issues and prepare analyses, recommendations, and supporting materials for senior leadership.
  • Support area management with local grievances, arbitrations, and other labor relations matters, while assisting with Association-wide initiatives as assigned.
  • Research and prepare materials for labor contract negotiations and related coastwide work.
  • Assist senior leadership and area management with Technology Framework, automation, mediation, and other contract administration matters. Coordinate with local labor relations staff to support consistent implementation.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive healthcare coverage through the ILWU-PMA Welfare Plan, with no employee premiums and minimal out-of-pocket expenses.
  • A 401(k)-retirement plan with employer matching.
  • Tuition reimbursement for professional development.
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