Assistant Director, CAA (Labor Relations)

Job Description

Job Description

Bring your experience to the  Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) , a nonprofit mutual benefit corporation that serves as the multi-employer collective bargaining agent for approximately 75 shipping lines, stevedore companies, and marine terminal operators at ports in California, Oregon, and Washington. West Coast port operations, including bulk and auto cargo, support 9.2 million U.S. jobs and contribute 12.5 percent of U.S. GDP.

PMA negotiates and administers labor contracts with the International Longshore & Warehouse Union (ILWU) on behalf of its member companies and administers payroll and certain benefits. PMA is headquartered in San Francisco, with area offices in Southern California, the Pacific Northwest, and Northern California.

Note: PMA is conducting one coastwide search for the Assistant Director, CAA role. The position may be based in either Long Beach or Portland; although posted in both locations, only one position will be filled. The deadline to apply is Friday, October 16, 2026.

SUMMARY 

This labor relations role requires strong research, communication, judgment, and a commitment to professional growth.

The Assistant Director reports to the Director, Contract Administration and Arbitration in Oakland. The role interprets and implements the ILWU-PMA Pacific Coast Longshore and Clerks Agreement (PCL&CA) and the Pacific Coast Walking Boss and Foremen’s Agreement (PCWB&FA), applying arbitration precedents and agreements to help resolve coastwide labor issues. The Assistant Director also supports programs that promote work continuity and consistent contract administration.

The role supports coastwide implementation of the Technology Framework and related longshore automation projects in alignment with established procedures and organizational goals.

The role advises PMA staff and member company representatives on labor relations matters, including operational changes, new technologies, and automation.

The role supports arbitration preparation, case load management, and contract bargaining by working with the Director, CAA, Area Management team, and Employer Bargaining Committees to develop positions and bargaining proposals.

JOB DUTIES

• Analyze collective bargaining agreements and interpret contract intent and meaning to guide labor relations policies and practices.
• Interpret collective bargaining agreements regarding grievances, management practices, and other contractual matters.
• Represent the organization on issues arising under the Technology Framework.
• Prepare and present local and coast-level arbitrations. Work with PMA staff to develop arguments and positions, with oversight of matters with coastwide implications, including the Technology Framework.
• Prepare time-sensitive communications and coordinate meetings with ILWU locals and PMA member companies.
• Develop programs to implement contract provisions.
• Research, plan, and develop labor relations procedures and policies.
• Support area management in achieving Association-wide and local labor relations objectives.
• Research and prepare materials for labor contract negotiations.
• Advise the Director, CAA and area management on Technology Framework and long-shore automation issues. Partner with local labor relations staff to maintain coastwide consistency on grievances, arbitration, mediation, and related labor relations matters.

 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

• 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 managing grievances and preparing arbitration matters.
• Ability to clearly communicate the employer position on collective bargaining agreement matters.
• Sound understanding of labor and employment laws, including the NLRA, ADA, FMLA, and related requirements.
• Strong written, verbal, interpersonal, and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate across groups.
• Professional, positive, and results-oriented 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 work collaboratively with peers, staff, management, and external contacts.
• Ability to apply logical and analytical thinking to complex problems.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in business administration or a related field. JD is a plus.
• At least five years of labor relations management experience, including contract negotiation, arbitration, and policy interpretation.
• Strong computer skills, including Oracle and Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

• Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to lift 5 lbs.
• Ability to crouch, bend, and reach daily.

Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The work environment is a typical office setting and may be fast paced when meeting deadlines. The office is Long Beach, California, within walking distance of local restaurants and shops. This position requires travel to West Coast port cities.

 

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

PMA offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• 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.

 

LOCATION

1 World Trade Center 1700
Long Beach, California 90831

 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

PMA is committed to an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming workplace.