AN OUTSTANDING CAREER OPPORTUNITY
This is a rare opportunity to serve as the senior labor relations leader for the City of Seattle at a pivotal moment, shaping citywide labor strategy in one of the nation’s most dynamic, complex, and values-driven public-sector environments. As Labor Relations Director, you will operate at the intersection of policy, people, and performance – partnering closely with executive leadership, elected officials, and labor organizations to deliver sustainable, equitable workforce outcomes. This role offers both scope and influence: the chance to lead high-impact negotiations, guide a talented labor relations team, strengthen labor-management partnerships, and ensure that the City’s labor practices reflect its commitment to excellence in government, accountability, and racial and social justice.
ABOUT SEATTLE
Seattle is one of those places that instantly takes your breath away. With mountains framing every sunrise and sunset, it feels like the outdoors is always calling. On any given day, you’ll find people sailing on Puget Sound, paddleboarding on Lake Washington, or heading out for a nearby hike to clear their minds. Founded in 1869, the city of Seattle is located in the state of Washington on Puget Sound, 113 miles (182 km) from the U.S.-Canadian border.
Seattle, with a population of over 740,000, is a commercial, cultural, and advanced technology hub of the U.S. Pacific Northwest and a major port city for trans-Pacific and European travel and trade. Surrounded by mountains and water, the Greater Seattle area features picture-perfect views and abundant recreational opportunities year-round. The city is proud of its arts and cultural institutions, its many live theaters, and its professional and collegiate sports. It is proud of its parks, of the central waterfront and the Pike Place Market, and, above all, of the beauty of its surroundings.
SEATTLE HUMAN RESOURCES – LABOR RELATIONS DIVISION
The Seattle Department of Human Resources (SHR) endeavors to promote an equitable and engaging work environment so employees can do their best work and make a difference for the people and communities we serve. The Department focuses on providing high quality services to all City employees and departments and works collaboratively with department leaders to align policies, practices, and programs citywide to fulfill the vision of workforce equity and excellence.
The Labor Relations division is staffed with 10 employees, including the Director, a Labor Relations Manager, six negotiators (including a lead), one analyst, and one administrative support. The division operates with an FY 26 budget of $1.2 million.
THE POSITION
The Labor Relations Director fosters collaborative relationships that advance the City’s labor relations strategy in support of excellence in government and equitable treatment of all City employees. Consistent with the City’s values of workforce equity and its labor philosophy of collaboration and partnership, the Director is accountable for overseeing and coordinating the City’s labor relations system; leading the City’s Labor Relations Division; fostering a culture of employee engagement and labor relations service quality; ensuring consistent, principled engagement with labor partners; and serving as a trusted advisor to City departments.
The city seeks a seasoned labor relations executive with the judgment, credibility, and mindset to strategically lead complex labor relations in a large, unionized public-sector environment. The ideal candidate must be pragmatic, forward-thinking, and an advocate for collaborative action. Their work history includes experience negotiating, implementing, and interpreting collective bargaining agreements with a deep understanding of employment and labor law. They are a decisive, fair, and diplomatic leader who motivates others, respects diverse perspectives, and ensures equitable and sustainable outcomes. A skilled organizational leader, they facilitate swift issue resolution and maintain high service standards. Consistency, openness, and responsiveness are priorities. They are recognized as a steady, trusted leader with technical expertise and strong political and organizational acumen.
QUALIFICATIONS
A successful candidate will be a collaborative, strategic leader with a history of leveraging their technical expertise in labor relations to achieve strategic, sustainable organizational outcomes. They think broadly, are grounded in human resources principles and practice, and communicate tactfully and effectively at all levels. Their professional career reflects a commitment to aligning labor strategy with business objectives and building consensus. They are decisive, keep their commitments, prioritize collaboration, and hold people accountable. As a leader, they value people, prioritize equity, and support an inclusive workplace culture. Their team values their mentorship, support, and clear direction. They serve as a trusted partner, known for being a good listener and lead negotiator.
Well-qualified candidates have managed labor relations or a comparable function in a high-profile and complex environment for a minimum of 10 years. Their work history includes successful labor management collaboration and union-side experience. They bring a pragmatic mindset that recognizes the requirements and challenges unique to public-sector employment and the business of government. Their work reflects financial, political, and legal acumen and a commitment to public service.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for the Labor Relations Director is $217,640 – $272,087, with placement in the range depending on qualifications. The City offers an outstanding benefits package which includes retirement provided by the Seattle City Employees’ Retirement System (SCERS), a rich, defined-benefit, retirement plan which offers five-year vesting and formula-based retirement benefits based upon date of hire. Employees hired after 2017 contribute 7% of salary toward retirement. Participation in the city’s retirement programs is optional. A voluntary deferred compensation (457) plan is offered as well.
For additional benefit information, interested candidates are encouraged to review the detailed recruitment brochure by clicking on the .pdf link on this page.
APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS
Interested candidates should apply immediately. The City may close the recruitment at any time once a suitably strong group of candidates has been established. Submit a comprehensive résumé and compelling cover letter below.
Confidential inquiries are welcomed to:
