The Associated Press is seeking a Labor Relations Specialist to support labor relations across its global business.
About the Role: This role is primarily focused on labor relations in the United States, including administration of collective bargaining agreements and support for union negotiations, with scope to support broader global labor and employee relations activities as needed.
You will work across time zones to ensure consistent and effective labor relations practices.
This is a temporary position designed to support labor activity by helping to build a more proactive, collaborative approach to union engagement. The assignment is expected to last approximately 18 - 24 months, with the possibility of extension based on business needs.
Reporting to the Director HRBP, this role will support grievance management, contract administration, and preparation for collective bargaining efforts. There will also be an opportunity to partner on global workplace employee relations activities including workplace investigations on an as needed basis.
What you’ll do:
- Build relationships with union representatives to resolve issues and prevent unnecessary escalation.
- Administer and interpret collective bargaining agreements; advise leaders to ensure compliance and mitigate risk.
- Manage grievances end-to-end, including investigation, documentation, and pre-arbitration in partnership with HR and legal.
- Support collective bargaining through research, analysis, and preparation of proposals and materials.
- Prepare arbitration cases by organizing documentation, timelines, and supporting materials.
- Assist in the preparation of arbitration cases by organizing documentation, timelines and supporting materials in partnership with HR leadership and counsel.
- Coordinate labor relations activities across HR, counsel and regional stakeholders.
- Analyze grievance and labor data to identify trends and support decision-making and risk mitigation.
- Contribute to labor relations approaches by preparing materials and supporting leadership in the development and communication of recommendations.
- Train and guide managers on contract interpretation and labor-related practices.
- Participate in early-stage grievance meetings and discussions; document discussions and support follow up; escalating complex high risk matters as appropriate.
- Support employee relations activities and continuous improvement initiatives efforts.
Who you are:
- Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws (including EEOC, NLRB, and applicable human rights laws), typically gained through education, certification, or relevant professional experience.
- 4–7 years of experience in labor relations in a unionized environment.
- Experience administering U.S. collective bargaining agreements managing grievances and supporting negotiations.
- Analytical and detail-oriented, with strong writing and organizational skills.
- Applies sound judgment to advise and influence managers, balancing business needs, employee impact, and legal considerations.
- Ability and interest in translating labor strategies into clear, practical guidance for managers and teams.
- Thrive in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments and know how to prioritize effectively
- Strong communicator and listener, skilled at navigating complex stakeholder relationships
- Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with the appropriate discretion.
- Bring a global perspective and an appreciation for cultural differences; international labor relations experience is a plus
- Proficient with Microsoft Office products such as but not limited to Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams, PowerPoint, as well as strong database management skills.
- Thoughtful about using AI-enabled tools to support your work, with good judgment around accuracy and confidentiality.
What will set you apart:
- Experience supporting collective bargaining negotiations
- Experience preparing arbitration cases in partnership with counsel
- Experience working in global or multi-jurisdictional environments
- Experience in news media or similarly fast-paced, mission-driven organizations
- HR or labor certification a plus
Why join us:
- A mission-driven, inclusive environment focused on both individual and collective success.
- Opportunities for professional development to help you reach your career goals.
- Access to tools, mentorship, and resources tailored to elevate your proficiency and contributions.
The anticipated salary range for this position is $75,000 - $90,000, contingent on experience and other job-related factors. Employees are eligible to participate in a 401(k) plan and an employer-sponsored health insurance plan, as outlined in the official plan documents. Additionally, they are eligible for paid time off and holidays per AP policy.”
The Associated Press offers comprehensive benefits which include:
- Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage
- Retirement benefits
- Company paid life insurance
- Paid vacation and sick days
- Paid parental leave for any new parent
- Mental health resources
AP seeks to build an inclusive organization grounded in respect for differences. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a veteran, or other characteristic protected by law.