Labor Relations Counsel IV

About the role

This position is eligible for a Hire-Above-Minimum salary rate. We are advertising this position as until filled and will review applications every 15 days with the first cutoff on 9/12.

Why join CalHR?

The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) was named a 2026 Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award winner for strengths development, a national recognition of organizations that build cultures helping people do their best work. This honor reflects our investment in a strengths-based workplace that supports growth, leadership and a stronger employee experience. CalHR is the pillar of human resources management for all state employees. Our success is made possible by the hard work of more than 400 CalHR team members who serve as trusted advisors to our strategic partners and the public. If you are interested in providing exceptional human resource services and guidance, CalHR is the place for you. By joining our team, you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working alongside passionate professionals.

What you'll do

• Work on diverse labor and employment duties—including litigating a wide variety of interesting and impactful labor and employment cases, conducting training, performing workplace investigations, providing in-house counsel on employment and personnel matters, and consulting and drafting legal opinions for high level executives on sensitive issues and projects.
• Independently represent CalHR and other departments in civil litigation, including both state and federal courts, and appellate courts in labor law matters.
• Argue consequential matters in superior and appellate courts that involve important public policy issues, and which ultimately may result in published decisions and shape the law.
• Enjoy being assigned the majority of your work from the inception of the case and working alongside experienced peers, and mentoring more junior attorneys throughout your tenure at CalHR.

How to apply

Information about applying for a state job can be found here: Three Steps to a State Job. If you're interested in exploring additional job opportunities at CalHR, please reach out to our recruitment team at CalHRTalentEngagement@calhr.ca.gov. We'd love to hear from you!

Minimum requirements

You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.

Additional documents

• Job Application Package
• Checklist
• Duty Statement
• Position Details
• Job Code #: JC-529827
• Position #(s): 363-400-5780-001
• Working Title: Labor Relations Counsel IV
• Classification: ATTORNEY IV
• $11,993.00 - $16,096.00 L
• New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
• # of Positions: 1
• Work Location: Sacramento County
• Telework: Hybrid
• Job Type: Permanent, Full Time
• Department Information
• The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) oversees a wide range of matters related to employee salaries and benefits, job classifications, civil rights, training, exams, recruitment, and retention. For most employees, many of these matters are determined through the collective bargaining process managed by CalHR. Our Mission: To serve as the trusted advisor to our strategic partners and the public, providing exceptional human resource services and guidance in developing a diverse and inclusive workforce. Our Vision: Shaping California’s future of public service excellence with fair and equitable employment opportunities and a diverse, engaged workforce. Core Values: People Centric, Leadership, Accountability, DEIA, Integrity, and Transparency.

Special requirements

• The position(s) require(s) a(n) CA State BAR License. You will be required to provide a copy of your license prior to being hired.
• All interested applicants are required to submit a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ).

Application instructions

• Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
• Final Filing Date: Until Filled
• Who May Apply: Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available).
• SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.
• Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process.
• Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).

Contact information

• The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the application process.
• The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the job.