Manager, Labor Relations

JOB SUMMARY

The Manager, Labor Relations, is responsible for regional labor relations, including contract negotiations and grievance/dispute resolution.

NATURE AND SCOPE

TraPac’s Marine Terminal Facilities operate 24/7, year-round, in an industrial maritime port environment.

Due to the nature of our business, work shifts may fluctuate dependent upon vessel arrival schedules and operational requirements. The incumbent may be required to work weekends, night shift, and long hours during the week and adapt to changes in work schedules as needed.

Travel between company sites, stakeholder sites and relevant industry events is required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following describes the general nature and level of work but is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all activities, duties, and responsibilities required of the job incumbent. Consequently, job incumbents may be asked to perform other duties as required.

• Demonstrate knowledge of and act in support of company mission, vision, standards, policies and procedures, operating instructions, confidentiality standards and the code of ethical behavior.
• Serve as a sitting member of the Pacific Maritime Association’s Northern California Area Sub Steering Committee, actively participate in all relative meetings, negotiations, grievance proceedings and/or other required ILWU-PMA related matters. Keep the Head of Operations for Oakland, Labor Relations Director and applicable management staff updated on significant events or findings generated from meetings, occurrences or instances.
• Keep management and staff updated and apprised of local area ILWU activities as they relate to overall labor relations and work practices. This includes other unions or bargaining groups who may in some way affect the facility’s operational activities or labor relations.

• Work with Pacific Maritime Association, or other employers’ associations to develop labor strategies and serve as primary spokesperson for contract negotiations, representing and operationally defining labor policies that ensure cost-effective labor agreements.

• If or when needed and/or required, assist or directly interact with staff on any on-the-job grievances or proceedings. Assist in ensuring any/all relative and required follow-up and documentation is properly and timely completed and submitted.
• Serve as trusted advisor by developing partnerships and effective working relationships with all stakeholders.
• Demonstrate organizational leadership, analysis and capability for timely, clear and decisive action.
• Monitor industry-wide developments and advancements, evaluate relevant programs and strategies, and apply best practices where appropriate to support identified operational objectives and maintain the company’s competitive position.

• Develop and maintain a thorough knowledge and understanding of union labor contracts, conditions and working rules across the region, ensuring continual adherence and compliance.
• Provide guidance and support to regional management on labor issues, including contract interpretation and grievance proceedings.
• Oversee union grievance processes, arbitrations, NLRB, DFEH, OSHA and ADA claims.
• Develop and execute technology-based labor relations strategies and initiatives.
• Conduct due diligence and provide labor relations advice on business development plans.
• Oversee training programs for frontline management regarding effective labor relations. Identify and provide training for staff at each location to ensure proper understanding of contracts, grievance processes, and employer rights.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, contractual obligations and established safety and security protocols.

• Enforce and support claims, loss prevention and safety programs to ensure a safe working environment

• Enforce and support appropriate legal, privacy and human resource management guidelines.
• Foster cooperative working relationship with ILWU, International and Locals, and other unions if applicable, in support of company goals.
• Assist with M&R labor and vendor contract negotiations and administration.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 3 years’ labor relations management experience including contract negotiations and grievance/dispute resolution.
• Container terminal operations experience is preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of union contracts and union working environment is preferred.

SKILLS AND APTITUDES

• Robust leadership, presentation, negotiation and communication skills.

• Strong understanding of human resource management principles, practices and procedures, including the ability to motivate in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.