Labor Relations Manager

Port of Portland • Portland, OR

72d • Hybrid

About The Position

We are looking for a Labor Relations Manager who fosters a fair, respectful, and collaborative workplace by strengthening relationships between the Port and its represented employees. This role provides leadership and expertise on labor relations strategies, policies, and practices that support both organizational goals and employee success. By guiding constructive dialogue, facilitating the resolution of workplace issues, and ensuring ethical and legal compliance, the Labor Relations Manager helps create a positive environment. The position also represents management in negotiations, interpretation, and administration of collective bargaining agreements, building trust and partnership with labor representatives to achieve shared outcomes. From the Hiring Manager - Are you ready to be the strategic voice that shapes the future of labor-management relations in a high-impact, mission-driven organization? As the Port's Labor Relations Manager, you'll step into a pivotal role where your expertise will drive meaningful change. You'll lead impactful negotiations, resolve complex challenges, and influence policies that directly impact the employee experience. You'll be the trusted advisor to leadership, the respected partner to labor representatives, and the catalyst for a culture of collaboration and respect. Here, your work won't just check a box-it will set the tone for how we work together, grow together, and succeed together. If you're looking for a role where the decisions you make shape the Port's future-and where your voice truly matters-this is where you belong.

Requirements

• 8+ years of progressively responsible experience in Labor Relations.
• At least 5+ years' experience as chief spokesperson negotiating successful labor agreements between management and employee organizations.
• Experience planning, directing, and organizing the labor activities of a public agency is preferred.
• At least 3+ years of people management experience.
• Master's/bachelor's degree in labor relations, Human Resources, Business, the social sciences, or related field.

Nice To Haves

• Certified Labor Relations Professional (CLRP) or Professional in Human Resources (PHR).
• Experience may be substituted for the educational qualifications.

Responsibilities

• In collaboration with senior leadership, develops, implements, and directs the Port's labor relations strategic plan and program.
• Leads and manages the labor relations strategy, aligning with Port's strategic objectives, business and work plans, and regulatory requirements.
• Serves as the Port's chief spokesperson for contract negotiations for collective bargaining agreements.
• Develops positions, proposals, and strategies in collective bargaining activities and negotiates labor agreements.
• Prepares Memorandums of Agreement, Understanding, and Exception, along with Supplemental Agreements.
• Facilitates labor management meetings, researches issues brought forward, and prepares the Port's response.
• Maintains current knowledge of labor relations trends, legal decisions, and statutory changes.
• Conducts research necessary to support contract negotiations.
• Uses appropriate negotiation strategies to develop bargaining goals and negotiate contracts consistent with the Port's mission, vision, and values.
• Develops, facilitates, and maintains cooperative working relationships with employee representative organizations, Port leadership, and department managers.
• Exercises professional leadership in promoting good employee/management relations.

Benefits

• Flexible hybrid schedule that combines work-life balance with team collaboration.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Administration of Economic Programs
• Education Level: Master's degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees