King County
Transit Employee and Labor Relations Representative
King County, Seattle, Washington, us, 98127
Salary :
$113,930.75 - $144,413.98 Annually Location :
Seattle, WA Job Type:
Multiple job types-career service and/or temp Job Number:
2025SB25468 Department:
MTD - Metro Transit Division:
Enterprise Employee Services Opening Date:
10/17/2025 Closing Date:
11/2/2025 11:59 PM Pacific FLSA:
Exempt Bargaining Unit:
Z3 : KC Personnel Guidelines Full- or Part-Time:
Full Time
Summary Are you someone who is motivated and passionate about public service and making a difference? King County Metro's Employee Services team seeks an Employee & Labor Relations Representative to serve as a trusted advisor within the department on daily employee and labor relations activities.
With over 5,000 employees, 97% of whom are covered by collective bargaining agreements, you will be responsible for advising or collaborating on complex employee performance management, union contract interpretation, workplace investigations and disciplinary decisions, and employee workplace complaints. As a trusted and influential resource with a high level of responsibility and autonomy, you will be able to impact some of the highest levels of decision- making, policy making and bargaining in the Department.
Position Info:
This recruitment will be used to fill one (1) Career Service and one (2) Special Duty/Term Limited Temporary (SDA/TLT) Employee Labor Relations Representative classification vacancy. The SDA/TLT's are anticipated to last until 11/13/2026 and may be extended. In addition, this selection process may be used to generate an eligibility list for future Career Service (CS), Special Duty Assignment (SDA), and Term Limited Temporary (TLT), vacancies that may occur in this classification within this workgroup. The eligibility list will be retained for 12 months from the date of posting and may be used at the discretion of the hiring authority.
Job Duties Applying principles is a daily responsibility and foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role, you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of this work. This position is comprised of the following duties: Routinely consult on and/or facilitate the resolution of employee and labor relations issues by working with managers, supervisors, employees, and union representatives. Work to resolve grievances/issues at the lowest possible level by working collaboratively within Transit Employee Services and other Metro Divisions, and externally with the Department of Human Resources (DHR) and Office of Labor Relations (OLR) to ensure overall program support and success. Ensure compliance with collective bargaining agreements through training and consultation with managers and unions. Consult with the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office as necessary. Conduct workplace investigations to determine the validity of complaints and grievances. Draft investigative reports, present investigative findings, and recommendations to decision-makers, and recommend appropriate disciplinary and corrective action. Prepare written responses to the EEOC and other similar state and local regulatory agencies regarding allegations of discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation. Participate in grievance hearings, either as a hearing examiner or as a management representative in support of other Department staff. Provide support in arbitration and mediation proceedings by researching relevant cases, gathering supporting documents, and providing professional labor relations advice; may serve as a partisan member of arbitration panels. Provide training, guidance, advice, and coaching to supervisory staff on employee and labor relations matters including performance management, workplace policy application, investigative techniques, contract compliance, and appropriate corrective actions. Provide recommendations to Employee Services Management and/or King County Office of Labor Relations regarding labor strategies and management bargaining proposals. Draft memorandums of understanding to address labor relations issues. Work collaboratively with other human resource professionals and leaders in the department to deliver outcomes that further Metro's organizational health commitments, and are equitable, defensible, and provide the best outcome for the agency. Other related duties as assigned. Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills We are looking for candidates who have:
Three years or more of progressively responsible experience with employee and labor relations issues, including conducting employment workplace investigations and writing investigation reports, advising on performance management issues, interpreting and applying federal, state, and local employment rules and regulations, as well as human resources policies and procedures. A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and professional-level employee and labor relations experience in a highly unionized environment or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and/or skills sufficient to perform the listed job duties. Advanced interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively at all levels in a collaborative team environment. Comprehensive understanding of labor law and labor relations and collective bargaining principles and practices. Experience providing recommendations to management on labor negotiations and strategy. In-depth knowledge of grievance, arbitration, and mediation proceedings. Thorough knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations. Strong presentation, facilitation, and consensus-building skills. Strong conflict resolution skills. Proven ability to handle highly confidential, sensitive, and potentially litigious issues. Thorough understanding of the principles of labor contract interpretation and administration. Demonstrated analytical, planning, and problem-solving skills. Proven oral and demonstrated strong written communication skills. A strong and proven commitment to the principles of equity and social justice. Ability to work daily in a fast-paced environment, with multiple competing priorities and sensitive situations. Proficiency in commonly used MS Office applications. Public sector experience and experience with large, unionized organizations. Highly competitive candidates will have (desired, but not required):
Knowledge of King County Metro's operations, mission, and policies Familiarity with government or transit agency operations. Knowledge of and experience with Equal Opportunity Employment laws and the ability to analyze and evaluate employment discrimination cases. Advanced skills in developing strategic recommendations for collective bargaining and advising senior management on labor strategy and negotiation proposals.
Supplemental Information Who may apply:
We are accepting applications from all qualified individuals including current King County employees and the general public.
To Apply
The following application materials are required: An online King County application updated with accurate contact information and relevant work history. Resume Completed supplemental questions. A cover letter (no longer than 2 pages). In your cover letter, please include: Why you're interested in this role Your relevant background - Experience, skills, or education that prepare you for a role in employee and labor relations. An example describing a time you analyzed a complex workplace issue and shared recommendations with others.
Selection Process:
Applications that do not include all of the required materials listed above will not be considered. Only the materials explicitly requested will be reviewed-additional documents or information will not be evaluated. Application materials will be screened for completeness and competitiveness. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in one or more interviews and possibly other selection process elements. Final offers are contingent on successful completion of reference checks and/or a record review.
If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application/assessment process, or have questions, please contact: Sabrina Brazzle at
Other Position Information Work Location: This is a hybrid position. The team works in a hybrid model, with days in the office as well as telecommuting. The ratio of remote to onsite work will be dependent on business needs and is subject to change. The primary onsite location is King Street Center, 201 S. Jackson, Seattle, Washington 98104.
Employees must reside in Washington state and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements.
King County has a robust collection of to support working remotely. The individual selected for this opportunity will join an innovative and progressive team that is redefining how we work as we transition to the department's hybrid environment. Employees will be provided with a County-issued laptop and must maintain a home workspace with an internet connection where they can reliably perform work and remain available and responsive during scheduled work hours.
Work Schedule: The position is exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is not overtime eligible. The typical workweek is 40 hours per week, Monday - Friday.
Union Representation: The position is not represented by a union.
Class Code: 2308100, EMPLOYEE and LABOR RELATIONS REPRESENTATIVE Forbes named King County as one of Washington State's best employers. Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference?
Come join the team
dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play. Guided by our , we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles - we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans. King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer
No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation. King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage options: King County provides eligible employees with options, so they can decide what's best for themselves and their eligible dependents Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan Transportation program and ORCA transit pass 12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays Generous vacation and paid sick leave Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs For additional information about employee benefits, visit our
This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails.
NOTE:
Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position. Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.
For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting. 01
How many years of professional-level employee and labor relations experience in a highly unionized environment do you have?
None, my experience does not align with the statement above. My application describes my relevant experience. Less than one year One year to less than three years Three to five years More than five years
02
Which of the following do you have experience with? (select all that apply)
Conducting employment workplace investigations and writing investigation reports Advising on performance management issues Interpreting and applying federal, state, and local employment rules and regulations Human resources policies and procedures None of the above at this time
03
Do you have demonstrated experience advising supervisors and managers on employee performance management, including discipline?
Yes, I do have demonstrated experience advising supervisors and managers on employee performance management, including discipline. No, I do not have demonstrated experience advising supervisors and managers on employee performance management, including discipline.
04
Please indicate the types of organizations for which you have professionally performed labor relation related activities - select all that apply:
I do not have experience providing labor relations support. Small organization-500 employees or less Medium organization- 501 to 2000 employees Large organization- more than 2000 employees Public organization- government agency, non profit, other Private- corporate, law office, other
05
Which of the following desired qualifications do you possess? (select all that apply)
Knowledge of King County Metro's operations, mission, and policies Familiarity with government or transit agency operations. Knowledge of and experience with Equal Opportunity Employment laws and the ability to analyze and evaluate employment discrimination cases. Advanced skills in developing strategic recommendations for collective bargaining and advising senior management on labor strategy and negotiation proposals. None of the above at this time
06
This job posting includes specific instructions regarding required application materials, including the cover letter. Please confirm that you have read and followed the instructions listed in the job posting.
Yes No
07
Are you applying to this position as an eligible current or previous King County Employee Priority Placement Program Participant? ANDIs this position the same or lower percentage of full-time when compared to the position held at the point of the notification of layoff? ANDDo you possess the skills and abilities to qualify for this position?
Yes, I was given a layoff notice from my Career Service role at King County and I am within two years of the effective date of my layoff. Additionally, the position I was laid off from was the same or a higher percentage of FT status when compared to this one. No.
08
If you answered yes to the question above and you are applying for this position as a Priority Placement Participant, to be considered, you must provide the following three pieces of information in the space provided:1. The title you held when you received your layoff notice2. The department you worked in3. The effective date of your layoff 09
Do you have any relatives employed by King County that work for King County's METRO Transit Department?
YES NO
10
If you answered "yes" to having a relative that works for King County Metro Transit, please provide the Division of Metro that they currently work in. Select all that apply.
a. Bus Operations Division b. Capital Division c. Employee Services Division d. Facilities Division e. Finance & Administration Division f. General Manager's Office g. Marine Division h. Mobility Division i. Rail Division (including Streetcar) j. Safety, Security & Quality Assurance k. Vehicle Maintenance l. I do not know which Division my relative works in at Metro Transit m. I do not have a relative that works for King County Metro
11
If you answered "yes" to having a relative that works for King County Metro Transit, please provide the employee's name, position, and your relationship. Required Question
$113,930.75 - $144,413.98 Annually Location :
Seattle, WA Job Type:
Multiple job types-career service and/or temp Job Number:
2025SB25468 Department:
MTD - Metro Transit Division:
Enterprise Employee Services Opening Date:
10/17/2025 Closing Date:
11/2/2025 11:59 PM Pacific FLSA:
Exempt Bargaining Unit:
Z3 : KC Personnel Guidelines Full- or Part-Time:
Full Time
Summary Are you someone who is motivated and passionate about public service and making a difference? King County Metro's Employee Services team seeks an Employee & Labor Relations Representative to serve as a trusted advisor within the department on daily employee and labor relations activities.
With over 5,000 employees, 97% of whom are covered by collective bargaining agreements, you will be responsible for advising or collaborating on complex employee performance management, union contract interpretation, workplace investigations and disciplinary decisions, and employee workplace complaints. As a trusted and influential resource with a high level of responsibility and autonomy, you will be able to impact some of the highest levels of decision- making, policy making and bargaining in the Department.
Position Info:
This recruitment will be used to fill one (1) Career Service and one (2) Special Duty/Term Limited Temporary (SDA/TLT) Employee Labor Relations Representative classification vacancy. The SDA/TLT's are anticipated to last until 11/13/2026 and may be extended. In addition, this selection process may be used to generate an eligibility list for future Career Service (CS), Special Duty Assignment (SDA), and Term Limited Temporary (TLT), vacancies that may occur in this classification within this workgroup. The eligibility list will be retained for 12 months from the date of posting and may be used at the discretion of the hiring authority.
Job Duties Applying principles is a daily responsibility and foundational expectation for all King County employees. In this role, you will apply equity and social justice principles that exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices to all aspects of this work. This position is comprised of the following duties: Routinely consult on and/or facilitate the resolution of employee and labor relations issues by working with managers, supervisors, employees, and union representatives. Work to resolve grievances/issues at the lowest possible level by working collaboratively within Transit Employee Services and other Metro Divisions, and externally with the Department of Human Resources (DHR) and Office of Labor Relations (OLR) to ensure overall program support and success. Ensure compliance with collective bargaining agreements through training and consultation with managers and unions. Consult with the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office as necessary. Conduct workplace investigations to determine the validity of complaints and grievances. Draft investigative reports, present investigative findings, and recommendations to decision-makers, and recommend appropriate disciplinary and corrective action. Prepare written responses to the EEOC and other similar state and local regulatory agencies regarding allegations of discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation. Participate in grievance hearings, either as a hearing examiner or as a management representative in support of other Department staff. Provide support in arbitration and mediation proceedings by researching relevant cases, gathering supporting documents, and providing professional labor relations advice; may serve as a partisan member of arbitration panels. Provide training, guidance, advice, and coaching to supervisory staff on employee and labor relations matters including performance management, workplace policy application, investigative techniques, contract compliance, and appropriate corrective actions. Provide recommendations to Employee Services Management and/or King County Office of Labor Relations regarding labor strategies and management bargaining proposals. Draft memorandums of understanding to address labor relations issues. Work collaboratively with other human resource professionals and leaders in the department to deliver outcomes that further Metro's organizational health commitments, and are equitable, defensible, and provide the best outcome for the agency. Other related duties as assigned. Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills We are looking for candidates who have:
Three years or more of progressively responsible experience with employee and labor relations issues, including conducting employment workplace investigations and writing investigation reports, advising on performance management issues, interpreting and applying federal, state, and local employment rules and regulations, as well as human resources policies and procedures. A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and professional-level employee and labor relations experience in a highly unionized environment or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and/or skills sufficient to perform the listed job duties. Advanced interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively at all levels in a collaborative team environment. Comprehensive understanding of labor law and labor relations and collective bargaining principles and practices. Experience providing recommendations to management on labor negotiations and strategy. In-depth knowledge of grievance, arbitration, and mediation proceedings. Thorough knowledge of employment-related laws and regulations. Strong presentation, facilitation, and consensus-building skills. Strong conflict resolution skills. Proven ability to handle highly confidential, sensitive, and potentially litigious issues. Thorough understanding of the principles of labor contract interpretation and administration. Demonstrated analytical, planning, and problem-solving skills. Proven oral and demonstrated strong written communication skills. A strong and proven commitment to the principles of equity and social justice. Ability to work daily in a fast-paced environment, with multiple competing priorities and sensitive situations. Proficiency in commonly used MS Office applications. Public sector experience and experience with large, unionized organizations. Highly competitive candidates will have (desired, but not required):
Knowledge of King County Metro's operations, mission, and policies Familiarity with government or transit agency operations. Knowledge of and experience with Equal Opportunity Employment laws and the ability to analyze and evaluate employment discrimination cases. Advanced skills in developing strategic recommendations for collective bargaining and advising senior management on labor strategy and negotiation proposals.
Supplemental Information Who may apply:
We are accepting applications from all qualified individuals including current King County employees and the general public.
To Apply
The following application materials are required: An online King County application updated with accurate contact information and relevant work history. Resume Completed supplemental questions. A cover letter (no longer than 2 pages). In your cover letter, please include: Why you're interested in this role Your relevant background - Experience, skills, or education that prepare you for a role in employee and labor relations. An example describing a time you analyzed a complex workplace issue and shared recommendations with others.
Selection Process:
Applications that do not include all of the required materials listed above will not be considered. Only the materials explicitly requested will be reviewed-additional documents or information will not be evaluated. Application materials will be screened for completeness and competitiveness. The most competitive candidates may be invited to participate in one or more interviews and possibly other selection process elements. Final offers are contingent on successful completion of reference checks and/or a record review.
If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application/assessment process, or have questions, please contact: Sabrina Brazzle at
Other Position Information Work Location: This is a hybrid position. The team works in a hybrid model, with days in the office as well as telecommuting. The ratio of remote to onsite work will be dependent on business needs and is subject to change. The primary onsite location is King Street Center, 201 S. Jackson, Seattle, Washington 98104.
Employees must reside in Washington state and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite to respond to workplace reporting requirements.
King County has a robust collection of to support working remotely. The individual selected for this opportunity will join an innovative and progressive team that is redefining how we work as we transition to the department's hybrid environment. Employees will be provided with a County-issued laptop and must maintain a home workspace with an internet connection where they can reliably perform work and remain available and responsive during scheduled work hours.
Work Schedule: The position is exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is not overtime eligible. The typical workweek is 40 hours per week, Monday - Friday.
Union Representation: The position is not represented by a union.
Class Code: 2308100, EMPLOYEE and LABOR RELATIONS REPRESENTATIVE Forbes named King County as one of Washington State's best employers. Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference?
Come join the team
dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play. Guided by our , we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce. To reach this goal we are committed to workforce equity. Equitable recruiting, support, and retention is how we will obtain the highest quality workforce in our region; a workforce that shares and will help advance our guiding principles - we are one team; we solve problems; we focus on the customer; we drive for results; we are racially just; we respect all people; we lead the way; and we are responsible stewards. We encourage people of all backgrounds and identities to apply, including Native American and people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ+, people living with disabilities, and veterans. King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer
No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation and pregnancy), age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or other protected class. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation. King County offers a highly-competitive compensation and benefits package designed to meet the diverse needs of our employees and support our employees' health and well-being. Eligible positions receive the following benefits and have access to the following programs:
Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage options: King County provides eligible employees with options, so they can decide what's best for themselves and their eligible dependents Life and disability insurance: employees are provided basic coverage and given the opportunity to purchase additional insurance for both the employee and eligible dependents Retirement: eligible King County employees may participate in a pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and a 457(b) deferred-compensation plan Transportation program and ORCA transit pass 12 paid holidays each year plus two personal holidays Generous vacation and paid sick leave Paid parental, family and medical, and volunteer leaves Flexible Spending Account Wellness programs Onsite activity centers Employee Giving Program Employee assistance programs Flexible schedules and telecommuting options, depending on position Training and career development programs For additional information about employee benefits, visit our
This is a general description of the benefits offered to eligible King County employees, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts with the provisions of a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA prevails.
NOTE:
Benefits for Term Limited Temporary (TLT) or Short Term Temporary (STT) positions, including leave eligibility and/or participation in the pension plan through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems, will vary based upon the terms and details of the position. Short Term Temporary positions are not eligible for an ORCA transit pass.
For inquiries about the specifics of this position, please contact the recruiter identified on this job posting. 01
How many years of professional-level employee and labor relations experience in a highly unionized environment do you have?
None, my experience does not align with the statement above. My application describes my relevant experience. Less than one year One year to less than three years Three to five years More than five years
02
Which of the following do you have experience with? (select all that apply)
Conducting employment workplace investigations and writing investigation reports Advising on performance management issues Interpreting and applying federal, state, and local employment rules and regulations Human resources policies and procedures None of the above at this time
03
Do you have demonstrated experience advising supervisors and managers on employee performance management, including discipline?
Yes, I do have demonstrated experience advising supervisors and managers on employee performance management, including discipline. No, I do not have demonstrated experience advising supervisors and managers on employee performance management, including discipline.
04
Please indicate the types of organizations for which you have professionally performed labor relation related activities - select all that apply:
I do not have experience providing labor relations support. Small organization-500 employees or less Medium organization- 501 to 2000 employees Large organization- more than 2000 employees Public organization- government agency, non profit, other Private- corporate, law office, other
05
Which of the following desired qualifications do you possess? (select all that apply)
Knowledge of King County Metro's operations, mission, and policies Familiarity with government or transit agency operations. Knowledge of and experience with Equal Opportunity Employment laws and the ability to analyze and evaluate employment discrimination cases. Advanced skills in developing strategic recommendations for collective bargaining and advising senior management on labor strategy and negotiation proposals. None of the above at this time
06
This job posting includes specific instructions regarding required application materials, including the cover letter. Please confirm that you have read and followed the instructions listed in the job posting.
Yes No
07
Are you applying to this position as an eligible current or previous King County Employee Priority Placement Program Participant? ANDIs this position the same or lower percentage of full-time when compared to the position held at the point of the notification of layoff? ANDDo you possess the skills and abilities to qualify for this position?
Yes, I was given a layoff notice from my Career Service role at King County and I am within two years of the effective date of my layoff. Additionally, the position I was laid off from was the same or a higher percentage of FT status when compared to this one. No.
08
If you answered yes to the question above and you are applying for this position as a Priority Placement Participant, to be considered, you must provide the following three pieces of information in the space provided:1. The title you held when you received your layoff notice2. The department you worked in3. The effective date of your layoff 09
Do you have any relatives employed by King County that work for King County's METRO Transit Department?
YES NO
10
If you answered "yes" to having a relative that works for King County Metro Transit, please provide the Division of Metro that they currently work in. Select all that apply.
a. Bus Operations Division b. Capital Division c. Employee Services Division d. Facilities Division e. Finance & Administration Division f. General Manager's Office g. Marine Division h. Mobility Division i. Rail Division (including Streetcar) j. Safety, Security & Quality Assurance k. Vehicle Maintenance l. I do not know which Division my relative works in at Metro Transit m. I do not have a relative that works for King County Metro
11
If you answered "yes" to having a relative that works for King County Metro Transit, please provide the employee's name, position, and your relationship. Required Question