DANA KOSAKA
Lodi,USA
Summary
Public-sector Human Resources executive with deep experience in civil service systems, labor relations, classification and compensation, workplace investigations, and organizational modernization. Proven leader of complex HR operations in unionized environments, with demonstrated success in ERP implementation, performance management systems, and multi-union negotiations. Recognized for collaborative leadership, compliance expertise, and the ability to balance organizational priorities with employee interests.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Human Resources & Risk Management
San Joaquin Delta College
Stockton, CA, USA
01.2023 - Current
- Oversaw employee relations investigations, classification, compensation, recruitment, benefits administration, and risk mitigation to support organizational objectives.
- Facilitated resolution of complex personnel and legal matters, enhancing organizational compliance with education code labor laws and collective bargaining agreements.
- Achieved successful negotiations with multiple unions through strategic development of bargaining strategies and thorough analysis of proposals. Crafted impactful counterproposals and guided both traditional and interest-based bargaining processes.
- Coordinated efforts with legal counsel and labor representatives to verify that contract language complies with labor law policy and reflects organizational priorities.
- Led efforts to modernize HR operations, enhancing process efficiency and managing change initiatives effectively.
- Oversaw implementation of risk management strategies, focusing on claims safety and effective mitigation measures.
- Developed and implemented strategic HR initiatives aligned with institutional goals.
- Enhanced employee engagement through targeted training programs and workshops.
- Coordinated and worked with management on performance evaluations, supervisory practices, dispute resolution, and employee accountability.
- Maintained company compliance with local, state, and federal laws, in addition to established organizational standards.
- Conducted thorough job analyses to develop accurate position descriptions and salary structures.
- Established performance management systems to align individual goals with organizational objectives.
Human Resources Manager
San Joaquin Delta College
Stockton, CA, USA
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Supervised HR staff and coordinated day-to-day operations of the HR department.
- Helped spearhead the College’s multi-year ERP implementation for Human Resources, providing system design input, supporting change management, and leading adoption of new HR systems, including a redesigned performance evaluation platform.
- Served as a lead for Title IX and Title V matters, conducting and coordinating investigations, ensuring timely notifications, maintaining comprehensive documentation, and tracking all required timelines for compliance with state and federal regulations.
- Led employee relations matters including investigations, discipline, grievances, and performance management.
- Guided classification and compensation studies, job analysis, and reclassification processes.
- Strengthened partnerships with campus leadership and labor representatives.
- Managed recruitment processes, including job postings, candidate screening, and interviewing.
Human Resources Analyst
San Joaquin Delta College
Stockton, CA, USA
01.2018 - 01.2022
- Conducted job analyses, classification reviews, and salary comparisons.
- Supported recruitment, onboarding, and compliance initiatives.
- Assisted with investigations, labor relations issues, and policy interpretation.
- Partnered with administrators and unions to resolve workplace issues.
- Analyzed employee data to identify trends and recommend improvements in HR policies.
- Developed training materials to enhance staff understanding of HR processes and compliance.
- Conducted audits of HR records to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations.
- Collaborated with management to streamline recruitment processes and improve candidate experience.
Senior Science Laboratory Technician
San Joaquin Delta College
Stockton, CA, USA
01.2001 - 01.2017
- Supported instructional science laboratories, equipment, and compliance with safety standards.
- Collaborated with faculty, classified staff, and administrators in a unionized, public-sector environment.
- Cultivated in-depth knowledge of collective bargaining agreements, workplace processes, and employee relations.
- Conducted experiments and analyses in compliance with safety protocols and procedures.
- Maintained laboratory equipment, ensuring functionality and accuracy of results.
- Collaborated with faculty to develop and implement new laboratory protocols and procedures.
- Trained students on laboratory techniques, promoting understanding of scientific principles.
- Oversaw inventory management, ensuring timely procurement of lab supplies and materials.
- Implemented quality control measures to enhance reliability of experimental data.
President
California School Employees Association (CSEA), Chapter 359
San Joaquin Delta College, USA
01.2011 - 01.2023
- Directed chapter operations negotiations and championed member advocacy within a multifaceted public-sector landscape.
- Engaged in grievance and labor-management meetings to address member concerns and uphold organizational standards.
- Cultivated collaborative relationships with management to advocate for employee rights.
Education
Associate of Science - Inter Disciplinary Studies
San Joaquin Delta College
Stockton, CA05-2020
Skills
- Public Sector HR & Civil Service Systems
- Labor & Employee Relations
- Multi-Union Negotiations
- Workplace Investigations (Title IX & Title V)
- Classification & Compensation
- ERP Implementation & HR Modernization
- Performance Management Systems
- Risk Management & Compliance
- Leadership & Team Development
- HR policy development
- Benefits administration
Timeline
Director of Human Resources & Risk Management
San Joaquin Delta College
01.2023 - Current
Human Resources Manager
San Joaquin Delta College
01.2022 - 01.2023
Human Resources Analyst
San Joaquin Delta College
01.2018 - 01.2022
President
California School Employees Association (CSEA), Chapter 359
01.2011 - 01.2023
Senior Science Laboratory Technician
San Joaquin Delta College
01.2001 - 01.2017
Associate of Science - Inter Disciplinary Studies
San Joaquin Delta College
Labor Union Leadership Experience
California School Employees Association (CSEA), Chapter 359, San Joaquin Delta College, President, 12 years, Led chapter operations, negotiations, and member advocacy in a complex public-sector environment., Represented members in grievances, discipline, and labor-management meetings., Built collaborative relationships with management while protecting employee rights., Chief Negotiator, Multiple Bargaining Cycles, Led bargaining strategy for the chapter; analyzed proposals and developed counterproposals., Worked with members and legal counsel to protect contract rights and strengthen labor protections., Chief Union Steward, Advised members on contract interpretation, due process, and progressive discipline., Represented employees in investigatory and disciplinary meetings; resolved conflicts through mediation and problem-solving., Regional Representative, Region 42, 4 years, Supported multiple chapters with labor relations, negotiations, and leadership development., Trained stewards and chapter officers on contract administration, investigations, and effective advocacy.