Posted:
2/16/2026, 6:50:45 AM
Location(s):
Dallas, Texas, United States ⋅ Texas, United States
Experience Level(s):
Senior
Field(s):
Legal & Compliance
Department:
Labor RelationsOur Company Promise
We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Creativity and innovation are encouraged for improving the effectiveness of Southwest Airlines. Above all, Employees will be provided the same concern, respect, and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every Southwest Customer.
Job Description:
The Lead Counsel Labor Relations will serve as the Company spokesperson and Lead Negotiation Teams with Air Ops workgroups and partner closely with Operations, Finance, and internal stakeholders to guide strategy and provide advice and counsel regarding negotiations. They’ll lead complex contract negotiations, maintain strong relationships with union Leaders and external partners, and ensure compliance with labor laws and contractual obligations. Through expert counsel, collaboration, and steady Leadership under pressure, the Lead Counsel Labor Relations is excited to support meaningful agreements that strengthen labor relationships and contribute to 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. This role involves travel that may vary significantly, ranging from little to extensive travel, depending on business needs.
U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.
We’re committed to fair hiring practices and to making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics.
Pay & Benefits:
Competitive market salary from $231,000.00 per year to $250,440.00 per
year* depending on qualifications and experience. 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 401(k) retirement savings 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 does not guarantee employment for any particular period of time.
**401(k) match contributions are subject to Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule
and applicable IRS limits
***ProfitSharing contributions are subject to Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule
and are made at the discretion of the Company
Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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Website: https://www.southwest.com/
Headquarter Location: Dallas, Texas, United States
Employee Count: 10001+
Year Founded: 1967
IPO Status: Public
Last Funding Type: Post-IPO Debt
Industries: Public Transportation