recruitAbility is hiring: Director of Labor Relations in Austin

A privately held specialty construction organization is hiring a Director of Labor Relations to lead all craft labor relations and workforce engagement initiatives across multiple operating entities.

This role partners closely with union leadership, field operations, and executive leadership to promote labor stability, workforce development, safety, and long-term growth. The position requires credibility with unions and the ability to operate comfortably at both the strategic and field levels.

Responsibilities

• Lead labor relations strategy across union and non-union craft labor
• Serve as primary liaison with skilled trade unions, including Ironworkers and Operators
• Manage collective bargaining, grievance resolution, and contract interpretation
• Partner with field leadership to ensure consistent contract administration and compliance
• Support workforce development, apprenticeship, and training initiatives
• Oversee employee engagement, training, and performance programs
• Align labor strategy with operational and business objectives
• Support hiring and workforce planning in partnership with HR and Operations
• Build relationships with trade schools, technical programs, and community partners
• Monitor labor market trends, union activity, and regulatory changes
• Calculate and report union fringe benefits and dues

Qualifications

• 10+ years of labor relations experience in specialty construction or industrial environments
• Direct experience working with skilled trade unions
• Proven success in collective bargaining and contract administration
• Strong understanding of apprenticeship and training programs
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills
• Strong judgment, integrity, and commitment to safety

Why This Role

• Senior leadership role with real influence
• High visibility with executive leadership
• Ability to shape labor strategy and workforce pipelines