Labor Relations Manager LDA

Multnomah County•Portland, OR

7d•Remote

About The Position

This is a Limited Duration Assignment that can last up to two years, but can end at any time. The Labor Relations (LR) Manager researches, develops, bargains, and implements key HR/LR initiatives, Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), memoranda, policies, and workplace practices. This role acts as a primary consultant and strategic advisor to executive leadership, operations management, HR staff, unions, and elected officials across a portfolio of assigned departments and labor contracts. The LR Manager serves as a stabilizing, objective presence, resolving complex employee disputes, representing the County in administrative and legal proceedings, and navigating high-conflict, high-stress scenarios while fostering collaborative union-management relationships and maintaining full legal compliance.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree in public administration, human resources, business administration or a related field. In lieu of a degree, equivalent years of related experience will be considered.
Three years of professional labor relations experience such as grievance and contract administration, contract negotiations, or dispute resolution.
Demonstrated experience and commitment to equity, inclusion, and diversity.

Nice To Haves

Advance degree in a relevant field.
Experience resolving grievances and participating in arbitrations.
Experience with a public sector, unionized environment.
Experience working with public safety unions is desirable.
Political and organizational savvy to successfully implement suitable labor relations solutions according to the needs of the organization.

Responsibilities

Counsel leadership and HR partners on workforce planning, performance issues, contract interpretation, and employment risk mitigation.
Investigate employee complaints and grievances, evaluate disciplinary actions, and ensure compliance with personnel rules and CBAs.
Research labor statutes, contract provisions, and rules alongside County Counsel and HR specialists to ensure consistent decisions.
Prepare legal briefs and represent the County as lead advocate during unemployment hearings and labor-management forums.
Lead or support bargaining teams through all stages of successor contract negotiations, from pre-planning through post-settlement ratification.
Negotiate interim bargaining demands, grievances, and Unfair Labor Practices (ULPs), drafting all formal settlement agreements and resolutions.
Draft clear contract language, Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs), and statutory notifications.
Build and maintain constructive relationships with union leadership to foster open communication, resolve disputes fairly, and ensure contract compliance.
Design and deliver training to managers, employees, and HR staff on labor relations processes, conflict resolution, and best practices.
Research public/private sector practices, update Personnel Rules for legal and Merit System compliance, and support advisory committees.
Implement monitoring systems and audit departmental performance to ensure compliance with labor agreements and merit principles.
Lead specialized programs as assigned, such as Drug & Alcohol administration, legislative reviews, layoff/bumping processes, and Merit Council support.