Human Resources Manager ; Labor Relations

At Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, we deliver pure reliable water to regions serving 19 million people—and to accomplish this, we rely on a team of talented employees: innovators, problem‑solvers, and collaborators who make it all possible.

We are seeking a Human Resources Manager I – Labor Relations to lead complex public sector labor strategies that drive the future of our workforce. In this high‑impact and collaborative role, you will partner closely with Employee Relations, Legal, and management to guide negotiations, navigate sensitive labor matters, and strengthen organizational relationships. In addition to negotiating, this role will present to management, employees, and the Board.

If you bring extensive expertise in public sector labor relations laws, thrive in unionized environments, and are familiar with the current trends and developments in labor relations, this is your opportunity to apply your skills in a role that influences employer–employee relations across the organization.

• Prepare for, organize and lead negotiations, including drafting contract language, proposals, and issuing or responding to bargaining notices.
• Develop, implement, and enhance labor relations policies, programs, processes, and services within a unionized public sector environment.
• Manage grievances, arbitrations, training, and other labor relations matters, including matters under the MMBA.
• Collaborate with Employee Relations, Legal, management, and unions to provide recommendations, resolve issues, and ensure proper application of contracts, policies, and HR programs.
• Assist in developing and executing long‑term labor relations strategies to support organizational goals.
• Review operational needs related to labor relations matters while providing guidance and recommendations to managers.
• Evaluate operational efficiency and implement processes, methods, and data systems to improve HR and service functions.
• Maintain strict confidentiality when handling sensitive and proprietary information.
• Supervise professional and/or clerical staff, as needed.

This job announcement has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this classification / job.

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Metropolitan's current practice in this position is a hybrid work schedule. This typically includes two days a week in person and other days remote. This is subject to change dependent on organizational needs. In addition, a telework policy is scheduled for negotiations and once completed and implemented, will provide final direction on the hybrid schedule.

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and eight (8) years of increasingly responsible relevant experience, of which two (2) years must have been in a project management, supervisory, or lead capacity.

An advanced degree from an accredited college or university and six (6) years of increasingly responsible relevant experience, of which two (2) years must have been in a project management, supervisory, or lead capacity.

Demonstrated experience with negotiating and implementing employee contracts, processing grievances, participating in hearing or arbitration processes, and managing and participating substantively in negotiations in a unionized public sector environment.

• Juris Doctor Graduate
• Experience with Public Employment Relations Board (PERB)

License(s): Valid California Class C Driver’s License or equivalent (required at time of application) that allows you to drive during your employment.

• Competitive compensation
• Excellent medical, dental, life, vision plans.
• Deferred compensation in the form of a 401(k) plan (with matching contribution) and a 457 plan.
• Retirement benefits under the California Public Employees' Retirement System
• Tuition reimbursement
• Training and advancement opportunities
• Excellent working environment
• On-site fitness center
• Hub of public transportation: rail, subway, buses, and taxis
• Public…