Labor Relations Counsel

This position is eligible for a pay differential of 5% of the monthly base pay rate, as well as a hire-above-minimum salary rate.

About the Role

Join the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) Legal Division as a Labor Relations Counsel, where you will serve as the first chair attorney litigating administrative hearings and arguing writs, motions, and appeals in civil court. This role offers a unique opportunity to work on diverse labor and employment matters, including:

• Litigating a wide variety of impactful labor and employment cases
• Conducting training and workplace investigations
• Providing in-house counsel on employment and personnel matters
• Consulting and drafting legal opinions for high-level executives on sensitive issues

CalHR attorneys independently represent the department and other state agencies in civil litigation, including state and federal courts, as well as appellate courts in labor law matters. You will handle cases from inception to resolution, working alongside a collaborative team of 15-20 attorneys. This role allows you to shape public policy through consequential matters argued in superior and appellate courts, often resulting in published decisions.

Working Conditions

• Career Development: CalHR provides continuous learning and training opportunities, including two Professional Development Days per fiscal year.
• Location: Centrally located near the Ice Blocks in downtown Sacramento, with nearby dining and shopping options.
• Work-Life Balance: Supports telework and adjustable schedules, with employees currently required to work in-person at least four days per week.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity: A culture that values varied perspectives and collaboration, fostering an inclusive work environment.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and dental insurance
• Long-term disability insurance
• 11 paid holidays per year
• Paid time off
• Defined benefit retirement program
• Commute program
• Employee wellness programs
• Employee assistance programs
• Medical and dependent care reimbursement accounts

CalHR employees are eligible for enhanced benefits, including a CoBen benefit allowance, employer-paid life insurance, and additional vacation/annual leave. Note: Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary salary reductions (2% to 4.62%) in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) hours. More information on PLP.

Requirements

• Active California State Bar License (required prior to hire).
• Submission of a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) addressing:
  • Knowledge and experience in labor and/or employment law, including litigation experience (administrative, education, volunteer, training, or work experience).
  • SOQ must be limited to two pages, single-spaced, 12-point Arial font, with numbered responses.

Applicants must meet the Minimum Requirements outlined in the Class Specification for ATTORNEY.

Qualifications

The following factors will be used to competitively evaluate candidates:

• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Practical experience in litigation before superior or federal courts and/or administrative agencies
• Experience in labor and employment law, and administrative law
• Strong legal research and analytical abilities
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment

Pay

• Salary Ranges (Monthly):
  • Range L: $7,969.00 - $10,473.00
  • Range M: $8,969.00 - $12,026.00
  • Range N: $7,506.00 - $9,439.00
  • Range O: $8,448.00 - $10,836.00
• New hires start at the minimum salary of the classification or alternate range.
• Merit Salary Adjustment (MSA): Eligible for a 5% salary increase every 12 months based on performance, until reaching the maximum salary for the position.

This position may be eligible for a telework opportunity in accordance with departmental policies.