Assistant Director, CAA (Labor Relations)

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 collaboration.

The Assistant Director reports to the Director, Contract Administration, and Arbitration in Oakland. Under the direction of senior leadership, the role supports implementation of labor relations initiatives and consistent administration of the ILWU-PMA Pacific Coast Longshore and Clerks Agreement (PCL&CA) and the Pacific Coast Walking Bosses and Foremen's Agreement (PCWB&FA).

The role primarily supports local area grievance administration and arbitration preparation, while assisting with selected coast matters as assigned.

The Assistant Director provides research on contract issues, applies arbitration precedents, supports contract interpretation, and assists PMA staff and member company representatives with local labor relations matters.

The role also supports implementation of the Technology Framework and related automation initiatives, arbitration case management, and preparation of research and materials for coastwide labor relations and bargaining activities.

JOB DUTIES

• Research collective bargaining agreements, arbitration decisions, and related materials to support contract interpretation and labor relations initiatives.
• Administer local grievances and support consistent application of contractual provisions, grievance procedures, and arbitration precedents.
• Support implementation of the Technology Framework and related automation initiatives under the direction of senior leadership.
• Prepare local arbitration matters, including research, exhibits, case summaries, arguments, and coordination with PMA staff and member companies. Assist with coast arbitrations as assigned.
• Prepare time-sensitive communications and coordinate meetings with ILWU locals and PMA member companies.
• Support implementation of contract provisions and established labor relations procedures.
• Research labor relations issues and prepare analyses, recommendations, and supporting materials for senior leadership.
• Support area management with local grievances, arbitrations, and other labor relations matters, while assisting with Association-wide initiatives as assigned.
• Research and prepare materials for labor contract negotiations and related coastwide work.
• Assist senior leadership and area management with Technology Framework, automation, mediation, and other contract administration matters. Coordinate with local labor relations staff to support consistent implementation.

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 administering grievances and preparing arbitration matters.
• Ability to clearly communicate the employer position on collective bargaining agreement matters.
• Knowledge of applicable labor and employment laws, including the National Labor Relations Act.
• Strong written, verbal, interpersonal, research, and teamwork skills.
• Professional and practical 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 analyze complex issues and apply sound judgment.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree or higher in business administration or a related field. JD is a plus.
• 5+ years of labor relations experience, including grievance administration, arbitration preparation, contract interpretation, and research.
• 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 in Portland, OR, within walking distance of public transportation. 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

101 Southwest Main Street Suite 330

Portland, Oregon 97204

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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