Southwest Airlines

Senior Lead Counsel Labor Relations

Southwest Airlines • $253K — $274K *
Dallas, TX 75217In-Person
Legal & Accounting
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7 years of experience as a practicing attorney, ideally in a law firm or in-house legal department with unionized workgroups
  • Extensive knowledge of collective bargaining agreements and labor relations strategy
  • Experience in leading complex negotiations, particularly under the Railway Labor Act
  • Established financial acumen or relevant financial work experience
  • Current member in good standing of a bar association, with an advanced law degree required

Responsibilities

  • Represent the Company as Chief Spokesperson in complex labor negotiations
  • Advise leadership on labor strategies and compliance issues
  • Lead transformative negotiations impacting high-stakes labor groups
  • Draft and analyze vital labor agreements and documents
  • Ensure organized retention of labor relations records and compliance documentation
  • Drive cross-functional coordination across multiple departments during negotiations
  • Engage with industry leaders and labor organizations to shape labor relations direction

Benefits

  • Free flights on open seats for employees and eligible dependents
  • Company contributions up to 9.3% to the Retirement Savings Plan
  • Potential annual profit-sharing contributions tied to Company performance
  • Comprehensive health insurance options from day one of employment
  • Access to multiple health plans with retroactive coverage available immediately
Full Job Description
Department:
Labor Relations

Job Description:

As Senior Lead Counsel Labor Relations, you'll serve as the Company's chief spokesperson in labor negotiations and lead complex bargaining efforts with Air Operations workgroups. You'll partner closely with Operations, Finance, and other stakeholders to develop labor strategy, provide legal and business guidance, and lead negotiations that have significant operational and financial impact. This role builds strong relationships with union and operational leaders, ensures compliance with labor laws and contractual obligations, and leads cross-functional teams throughout the negotiation process. You'll also present at the bargaining table and to Company Leadership, using your labor relations expertise and strategic perspective to help achieve effective labor agreements and support Southwest's long-term success.

Additional Details
  • The culture of Southwest Airlines means we value the camaraderie, collaboration, and innovation that occurs when we come together and interact face-to-face at our vibrant Corporate Campus. Due to the nature of this role, you would be required to work from our Dallas, TX Headquarters facility during business hours.
  • U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.


Responsibilities
  • Represent the Company as Chief Spokesperson in negotiations, utilizing novel labor relations strategies and legal frameworks that redefine the approach to collective bargaining
  • Advise Company leadership on labor relations strategy, legal and operational risks, and compliance with government regulations and contractual obligations
  • Lead transformative, enterprise-wide negotiations for the Company's most complex and high-impact labor groups
  • Identify and analyze Labor Relations and operational issues related to the collective bargaining agreement, draft key documents, present clear recommendations on complex issues to minimize company exposure to liability or to ensure compliance with governmental rules and regulations
  • Ensure necessary retention and cataloging of labor relations records (e.g., collective bargaining agreements, negotiation notes, arbitration decisions, grievance settlements, court and administrative agency decisions.)
  • Drive cross-functional alignment across Legal, Labor Relations, Operations, HR, and senior leadership to execute transformative labor initiatives
  • Serve as an integral partner in long-term labor strategy, anticipating regulatory, technological, and workforce shifts
  • Influences industry direction through engagement with national labor organizations, regulators, and industry forums
  • Ensure consistency in application of government regulated policies (e.g., FMLA & ADA) and contractual interpretation and practice
  • Resolve unprecedented, enterprise-critical labor disputes requiring creative legal interpretation and strategic innovation
  • Mentor and develop senior legal and labor relations talent to strengthen enterprise labor capabilities
  • Stay current on legal practices by performing extensive law research and analysis
  • May perform other job duties as directed by Employee's Leaders


Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process, including emerging labor trends with the ability to interpret and apply trends in novel or transformative ways
  • Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language, including the meaning, spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar with the ability to craft complex legal arguments, negotiation frameworks, and strategic communications with clarity and precision
  • Skilled in diagnosing complex, enterprise-wide labor challenges, developing original strategic options, and implementing innovative, forward-looking solutions
  • Skilled in using analytical and critical reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems
  • Skilled in evaluating unconventional approaches, anticipating downstream implications, and shaping long-term outcomes
  • Ability to navigate sensitive, high-risk, and confidential legal matters, consistently demonstrating discretion, integrity, and ethical leadership under pressure
  • Ability to build and sustain trusted relationships at the highest levels, inspiring credibility and influence across executives, union leadership, external stakeholders, and industry forums
  • Ability to integrate legal judgment, business strategy, labor economics, and risk forecasting to guide enterprise direction
  • Ability to clearly articulate complex legal and strategic concepts to executives, the Board, labor partners, and diverse internal audiences
  • Ability to prioritize and execute in a dynamic, high-stakes environment, managing concurrent enterprise initiatives and rapidly evolving labor issues


Education
  • Required: High School Diploma or GED
  • Required: Bachelor's Degree
  • Required: Advanced Law Degree


Experience
  • Innovator level experience, highest level of knowledge in:
    • Working as a licensed practicing attorney, preferably in a major law firm or in-house legal department with unionized workgroups
    • Negotiations, interpretation, and/or administration of collective bargaining agreements
    • Leading or working with contract workgroups
    • Background in RLA negotiations
    • Financial acumen or financial work experience
    • Labor Relations strategy
  • Preferred: Advising and representing airline clients


Licensing/Certification
  • Required: Must be a current member in good standing of a bar association


Physical Abilities
  • Ability to perform work duties from [limited space work station/desk/office area] for extended periods of time
  • Ability to communicate and interact with others in the English language to meet the demands of the job
  • Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed and accuracy to meet the demands of the job


Other Responsibilities
  • Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Must be willing to travel when required (e.g., to support the Company's airport development and other projects)
  • Must be able to work flexible schedule to include non-business days and hours as needed to meet client needs


Pay & Benefits
  • Competitive market salary from $253,060 - $274,140 per year* depending on qualifications and experience, with opportunity for future pay increases based on performance and market movement. For eligible leadership and individual contributor roles, additional bonus opportunities are available and awarded at the discretion of the company.


Benefits you'll love
  • Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)
  • Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan with Company contributions up to 9.3% of your eligible earnings**
  • Potential for annual ProfitSharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan- when Southwest profits, you profit***
  • Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents (including pets)
  • Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the very first day of employment. You will have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan with coverage retroactively available to your first day of employment.
  • Explore more Benefits you'll love: https://careers.southwestair.com/benefits


*Pay amount doesn't guarantee employment for any particular period of time
**401(k) match contributions are subject to the plan's vesting schedule and applicable IRS limits
***ProfitSharing contributions are subject to plan's vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company

Please print/save this job description because it won't be available after you apply.

About Southwest Airlines

AirTran Airways, a Fortune 1000 company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), has been ranked the number one low cost carrier in the Airline Quality Rating study for the past three years. AirTran Airways is the only major airline with Gogo Inflight Internet on every flight and offers coast-to-coast service on North America’s newest all-Boeing fleet.

Southwest Airlines Careers

Join the vibrant team at Southwest Airlines, a leading entity in the aviation industry known for its exceptional culture and commitment to innovation and diversity. As we continue to expand, there has never been a better time to explore job opportunities with us. Work You’ll Do At Southwest Airlines, we offer a variety of career paths ranging from aviation mechanics to customer service professionals, all united by a common goal of providing excellent service and maintaining the highest standards of safety. Our team members are the heart of our operations, and we empower them to succeed in their roles and beyond. Transform Your Career Step into a role at Southwest Airlines and join a team that values leadership, professional growth, and diversity training. Our employees are encouraged to lead from their first day, supported by our robust leadership development programs. Innovate with Us Southwest Airlines is at the forefront of innovation in the aviation industry. Join us and contribute to projects that redefine the future of air travel. Our collaborative environment fosters innovation, allowing every team member to make an impact. Be Part of a Great Team Our culture is built on connectivity and teamwork. At Southwest Airlines, you will work alongside dedicated professionals who share your passion for excellence. We celebrate diversity and believe it drives innovation, making us stronger and more responsive to our customers' needs. Future-Proof Your Career Southwest Airlines is committed to the professional development of our employees. With a wide range of benefits, from comprehensive health coverage to employee travel perks, we ensure that your career with us is rewarding. Continuous learning is part of our DNA, and we provide extensive training and development opportunities to help you grow your skills and advance your career. Internship Opportunities Kickstart your career with a Southwest Airlines internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, build your network, and learn from leaders who are eager to mentor the next generation of aviation professionals. Our internships offer a deep dive into the aviation world, preparing you for a full-time position in your chosen field. Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to take their career to new heights. Explore our job opportunities and find out how you can contribute to the Southwest Airlines family. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights—all from the people who make Southwest Airlines a great place to work. Explore Discover how innovation at Southwest Airlines is shaping the future of air travel and how you can be a part of it. Read more about our projects, team achievements, and the impact we’re making in the industry. Southwest Airlines Careers Our commitment to professional growth, a dynamic culture, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace makes Southwest Airlines not just a great place to work, but a community where you can build a fulfilling career. Join us and see where your skills and passions can take you.
Learn more about Southwest Airlines
Size
58,865 employees
Market Cap
$19.8 billion
Industry
Aerospace & Defense
Net Income
-$3 billion
Founded
1971
5 Year Trend
-4.9%
Revenue
$9 billion
NASDAQ
LUV
* Ladders Estimates

Similar Jobs

Ad banner background

Get Ready For Your
Next Interview

More Jobs at Southwest Airlines

More Legal & Accounting Jobs

Find similar Senior Lead Counsel Labor Relations jobs:

NationwideDallas, TX