Job Details
Labor Relations Specialist (HRC4/ERD)
2026-02-09 State of Washington all cities,AK
Description:
Required qualifications:
Qualifying candidates will meet one of the following criteria options:
Option 1:
Only candidates who reflect the minimum qualifications on their NEOGOV profile will be considered. Failure to follow the application instructions below may lead to disqualification. To apply for this position, you will need to complete your profile which includes three professional references and attach in separate files:
About HCA:
Functioning as both the state's largest health care purchaser and its behavioral health authority, the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is a leader in ensuring Washington residents have the opportunity to be as healthy as possible.
There are three pillars of our work: Apple Health (Medicaid); the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) and School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) programs; and behavioral health and recovery. Under these pillars, HCA purchases health care, including behavioral health treatment for more than 2.7 million Washington residents and provides behavioral health prevention, crisis, and recovery supports to all Washington residents.
What we have to offer:
Notes:
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment.
HCA is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. HCA has five employee resource groups (ERGs). ERGs are voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with HCA's mission. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. Studies have shown women, racial and ethnic minorities, and persons of disability are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. Persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are also encouraged to apply. If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact Jake Nelko at or 360.###.####.
The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is an All applicants with a in the United States are encouraged to apply.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
to receive a list of new job postings at HCA.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Please select the highest level of education that you have completed:
02
Which of the following best describes your broad-based professional human resource experience?
03
If you indicated you have the experience noted in the above question, please explain how, where, and when you gained this knowledge and experience (must be reflected in the work experience of your application). Please do not state "see resume" or copy and paste that material. If you answered no, please type N/A in the text box below.
04
Do you have the ability to take action to learn and grow?
05
Do you have the ability to take action to meet the needs of others?
06
Which of the following best describes your professional work experience interpreting union contracts?
07
Which of the following best describes your professional work experience interpreting laws, WACs, and other policies and procedures?
08
Which of the following best describes your professional experience with workplace investigations?
09
I acknowledge that I have included at least three references, and that I have uploaded a cover letter and resume in the attachments section of my application.
10
I acknowledge that this position is eligible to telework and is typically not required to report on-site, but may be required to report on-site in Olympia, WA, two days per week during the initial training period.
11
If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? The attached link lists acceptable documents:
12
Will you require sponsorship for an employment-related immigration benefit, either now or in the future?
Required Question
Salary: $75,108.00 - $100,980.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Remote Optional
Job Number: 2026-01145
Department: Health Care Authority
Division: ERD
Opening Date: 02/06/2026
Closing Date: 2/16/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
Description
Labor Relations Specialist (HRC4/ERD)
71053034
The Health Care Authority (HCA) is in search of a strong relationship builder, critical thinker, and investigator to serve as a labor relations specialist. This position supports the agency's managers and supervisors with the knowledge and resources to effectively fulfill HCA's mission while complying with all applicable authorizing environments. If you are a seasoned human resources HR professional who enjoys interpreting CBAs, laws, policies, and procedures, this may be the opportunity for you!
All HCA employees will apply an equity lens to their work, which may include but is not limited to all analyses of core business and processes.
About the division:
Human Resources (HR) is an organizational section within the Employee Resources Division (ERD) within the Central Services Administration at HCA. ERD is committed to ensuring that HCA employees have the services, tools, and resources needed to support a healthier Washington. HR is a strategic business partner, actively contributing to HCA's excellence through professional expertise, guidance, and human resource solutions.
About the position:
The Labor Relations Specialist reports to the Labor Relations and Recruitment Manager and independently provides expert level labor relations consultation to management of HCA. The position is responsible for HCA's grievance case management for all CBAs; General Government as well as Non-State Employees. This position coordinates Union Management Communication Committee (UMC/C) meetings, responds to Union Requests for Information (RFI) and assists the Labor Relations and Recruitment Manager with labor negotiations for HCA. Under general direction by the manager, the Labor Relations Specialist independently provides consultation on professional and technical matters of labor relations. The position also ensures timely, accurate, and consistent flow of information and engagement regarding labor relation matters.
This position is eligible to telework and is typically not required to report on-site, but may be required to report on-site two days per week during the initial training period.The default assigned work location of all Health Care Authority (HCA) positions - both on-site and telework eligible positions - is within the State of Washington. This position reports to Olympia, WA. Frequency of onsite work will vary based on business and operational needs. HCA has currently suspended the ability to support out-of-state telework.
Duties
Some of what you will do:
- Provides expert consultation on complex labor relation matters.
- Provides consultation and interpretation of applicable CBAs and ensures consistent compliance with bargaining agreements, agency policies, best practice human resource management activities and business practices.
- Designated as the professional level expert for HCA's Language Access Provider CBA.
- Participates in informational meetings and discussions with Unions while maintaining respectful and collaborative relationships with Union officials and staff.
- Manages and tracks complex and sensitive labor relations issues having broad inter/intra-agency impacts.
- Responsible for processing and case-managing grievances, Union notifications, demands to bargain, RFIs, unfair labor practices, arbitrations, and other labor related activities and track to completion.
- Reviews, researches, and tracks Union RFIs. Gathers data and responds to Union requests.
- Represents the agency on behalf of the Labor Relations and Recruitment Manager. Staffs Statewide Union Management Communications Committee Coordinator for two CBAs (General Government and Non-State Employees) including communicating with participants, preparing meeting materials, and follow-up.
- Coordinates Union release time requests.
- Creates, organizes, and maintains comprehensive labor relations filing and tracking systems.
- Composes letters, memorandums, etc. on behalf of the Labor Relations and Recruitment Manager.
Required qualifications:
Qualifying candidates will meet one of the following criteria options:
Option 1:
- Bachelor's degree with focus on business, human resources, social or organizational behavioral sciences, or related field and
- Three (3) years of broad-based professional human resource experience.
- Associate degree with focus on business, human resources, social or organizational behavioral sciences, or related field and
- Five (5) years of broad-based professional human resource experience.
- Seven (7) years of broad-based professional human resource experience.
- The ability to take action to learn and grow.
- The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
- Experience interpreting union contracts.
- Experience interpreting laws, WACs, and other policies and procedures.
- Experience with workplace investigations.
- Proficiency using Microsoft Office Suite software.
- Professional in Human Resources or Senior Professional in Human Resources certification.
- Demonstrated ability to:
- Establish and maintain effective professional working relationships with a diverse range of customers and co-workers.
- Understand, apply, and correctly interpret laws, WACs, Union contracts, and other HR-related policies and procedures.
- Research, analyze and interpret statistical or complex data in a fast-paced work environment.
- Provide excellent customer service to diverse groups of people with a variety of needs.
- Establish collaborative workplace relationships, encourage teamwork, and establish trust and credibility with others.
- Effectively present ideas and consult with diverse individuals and groups.
- Readily adapt to new situations and be open to change.
- Analyze and interpret information in order to provide options and solutions.
Only candidates who reflect the minimum qualifications on their NEOGOV profile will be considered. Failure to follow the application instructions below may lead to disqualification. To apply for this position, you will need to complete your profile which includes three professional references and attach in separate files:
- A cover letter that specifically addresses how you meet the qualifications for this position
- Current resume
- Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 long-form copy), NGB 22, or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
- Please black out any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers. Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
About HCA:
Functioning as both the state's largest health care purchaser and its behavioral health authority, the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is a leader in ensuring Washington residents have the opportunity to be as healthy as possible.
There are three pillars of our work: Apple Health (Medicaid); the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) and School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) programs; and behavioral health and recovery. Under these pillars, HCA purchases health care, including behavioral health treatment for more than 2.7 million Washington residents and provides behavioral health prevention, crisis, and recovery supports to all Washington residents.
What we have to offer:
- Meaningful work with friendly co-workers who care about those we serve
- A clear agency mission that drives our work and is person-centered
- A healthy work/life balance, including alternative/flexible schedules and mobile work options.
- A great total compensation and benefit package
- A safe, pleasant workplace in a convenient location with restaurants, and shopping nearby.
- And free parking!
Notes:
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment.
HCA is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. HCA has five employee resource groups (ERGs). ERGs are voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with HCA's mission. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. Studies have shown women, racial and ethnic minorities, and persons of disability are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. Persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are also encouraged to apply. If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact Jake Nelko at or 360.###.####.
The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is an All applicants with a in the United States are encouraged to apply.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
to receive a list of new job postings at HCA.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
01
Please select the highest level of education that you have completed:
- High school graduation or equivalent
- Associate degree
- Bachelor's degree
- Master's degree or higher
- None of the above
02
Which of the following best describes your broad-based professional human resource experience?
- I do not have this experience.
- Less than 3 years
- More than 3 years, but less than 5 years
- More than 5 years, but less than 7 years
- More than 7 years
03
If you indicated you have the experience noted in the above question, please explain how, where, and when you gained this knowledge and experience (must be reflected in the work experience of your application). Please do not state "see resume" or copy and paste that material. If you answered no, please type N/A in the text box below.
04
Do you have the ability to take action to learn and grow?
- Yes
- No
05
Do you have the ability to take action to meet the needs of others?
- Yes
- No
06
Which of the following best describes your professional work experience interpreting union contracts?
- I do not have this experience.
- Less than 1 year
- More than 1 year, but less than 2 years
- More than 2 years, but less than 3 years
- More than 3 years
07
Which of the following best describes your professional work experience interpreting laws, WACs, and other policies and procedures?
- I do not have this experience.
- Less than 1 year
- More than 1 year, but less than 2 years
- More than 2 years, but less than 3 years
- More than 3 years
08
Which of the following best describes your professional experience with workplace investigations?
- I do not have this experience.
- Less than 1 year
- More than 1 year, but less than 2 years
- More than 2 years, but less than 3 years
- More than 3 years
09
I acknowledge that I have included at least three references, and that I have uploaded a cover letter and resume in the attachments section of my application.
- Yes
- No
10
I acknowledge that this position is eligible to telework and is typically not required to report on-site, but may be required to report on-site in Olympia, WA, two days per week during the initial training period.
- Yes
- No
11
If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? The attached link lists acceptable documents:
- Yes
- No
12
Will you require sponsorship for an employment-related immigration benefit, either now or in the future?
- Yes
- No
Required Question