Labor Relations Associate

ABOUT PMA

Put your experience and talents to work in a role with a unique company - the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA). PMA is a non-profit mutual benefit corporation that serves as a multi-employer collective bargaining agent for approximately 75 shipping lines, stevedore companies, and marine terminal operators at California, Oregon, and Washington ports. West Coast port operations (including non-containerized cargo such as bulk and autos) now support 9 million U.S. jobs and contribute 12.5 percent of the U.S. GDP.

PMA's primary purpose is to negotiate and administer labor contracts with the International Longshore & Warehouse Union on behalf of the Association's member companies, as well as administrating payroll and certain benefits. Our headquarters and administrative office is located in San Francisco, California, with area offices in Southern California (Long Beach and satellite offices in San Diego and Port Hueneme) and the Pacific Northwest (Portland, Oregon and Seattle and Tacoma, Washington) in addition to Northern California (Oakland).

SUMMARY

Reporting to the Area Assistant Director, the Labor Relations Associate will require a proficiency in labor contract administration, which may include negotiations, benefits administration, forecasting manpower needs, grievance investigation and resolution, including arbitration.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in analyzing collective bargaining agreements and interpretation of intent, spirit, and terms of contract to counsel management in development and application of labor relations policies and practices.

• Collaborate on preparation of statistical reports of types and frequency of actions taken concerning grievances, arbitration, mediation, and related labor relations activities, to identify problem areas.

• Coordinate and produce routine reports from PMA databases for Area Office.

• Develop working knowledge of the terms of the labor contract to monitor the day-to-day implementation of policies concerning wages, hours, and working conditions.

• Assist in the investigation of complaints of violations against longshore workers. Report on findings and provide recommended actions.

• Furnish reference documents and statistical data concerning labor legislation, labor market conditions, prevailing union and management practices, wage and salary surveys, and employee benefits programs for labor contract negotiations.

• Provide support to and participate in Joint Labor Relations Committee meetings.

• Other duties may be assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Possess excellent communication, written, oral, interpersonal and teamwork skills, communicate constructively and confidently, listen openly, and collaborate well with staff and others in different groups.

• Demonstrate practical knowledge of the ILWU-PMA Pacific Coast Longshore and Clerk Agreement and the Pacific Coast Walking Boss/Foreman Agreement, dispatching procedures in the relevant port areas.

• Display integrity and work ethic beyond reproach, and take ownership for meeting the goals and objectives of the department/organization.

• Convey a professional and positive attitude with action/results orientation to problem solving.

• Proven ability and experience in exercising good judgment and discretion in handling confidential materials and matters.

• Show facility in multi-tasking to meet multiple deadlines while maintaining vigilant attention to detail and focus on producing accurate and complete information.

• Possess strong organizational and analytical skills in managing to daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly or annual deadlines.

• Display strong initiative for own technical development including learning from others about the nuances of the organization's operational activities and industry.

• Excellent attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy.

• Ability to handle multiple demands; and prioritize workload; establish and maintain positive, cooperative, and productive working relationships.

• Extensive and excellent computer skills and experience using robust systems such as Oracle and software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint. Ability to use software tools to present data clearly and concisely.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, industrial relations or political science from a four year college or university preferred. Juris Doctorate degree a plus.

• Three to four years direct industry experience with emphasis in Labor Relations is preferred.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

PMA offers a flexible, fun, and professional work environment. PMA's culture fosters collaboration, autonomy, and the ability to perform challenging work. This position works with a labor relations team in Oakland. Some travel required to outside work sites. On-call work is required one week per month. Hybrid schedules are allowed with the ability to work from home as appropriate.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described are representative of those in a typical office setting. Sitting and typing at a computer for several hours per day is required. The position requires the ability to drive to various waterfront locations. Must be able to lift 5 pounds. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job. Some travel is required for this position.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

PMA offers a competitive salary, discretionary bonus and auto allowance.

Excellent benefits: PPO and HMO options with Aetna and Kaiser. PMA offers a defined contribution plan (401K) with a competitive discretionary employer match that equals 100 % of the first 5% and 50% of the next 10% of eligible pre-tax contributions. In addition, PMA provides tuition reimbursement, company-paid conferences, and certifications.

EEO STATEMENT

PMA is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.