Employee Relations Specialist

Roles and responsibilities

The Employee Relations Specialist plays a crucial role in fostering a positive and productive work environment. This position is responsible for managing employee relations issues, interpreting and administering company policies, conducting investigations, and resolving workplace conflicts. The Employee Relations Specialist will act as a trusted advisor and resource for both employees and managers.

Key Accountabilities:

• Policy Administration:
• Interpret and administer company policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Develop and update employee handbooks and policy manuals.

Conflict Resolution:

Manage and resolve employee conflicts, grievances, and complaints.

Conduct thorough and impartial investigations into workplace issues.

Mediate disputes and facilitate constructive dialogue between parties.

• Employee Relations Counseling:
• Provide guidance and support to employees on various workplace matters.
• Advise managers on employee relations best practices and conflict resolution techniques.
• Conduct exit interviews to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement.
• Collaboration:
• Partner with HR colleagues to address employee relations issues and develop solutions.
• Work with legal counsel on complex employee relations matters.
• Record Keeping:
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of employee relations activities.
• Prepare reports and analyze data to identify trends and areas of concern.

• Conflict Resolution and Mediation:

  • Act as a neutral party to mediate and resolve disputes between employees and between employees and management.
  • Provide guidance to employees on resolving interpersonal conflicts.
  • Ensure the application of fair and consistent solutions to workplace issues.

• Policy Development and Implementation:

  • Assist in the development and implementation of company policies related to employee conduct, behavior, and performance.
  • Ensure that policies comply with labor laws and regulations.
  • Advise management on changes or updates to existing policies.

• Employee Engagement and Satisfaction:

  • Promote a positive work environment and employee engagement initiatives.
  • Conduct surveys or interviews to assess employee satisfaction and gather feedback.
  • Recommend strategies for enhancing employee morale and retention.

Desired candidate profile

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management, Industrial Relations, or a related field.

Minimum Experience:

3+ years of experience in an employee relations role.

Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices.

Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills.

Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master's degree in Human Resources Management or a related field.

Experience working in a unionized environment.

SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification

Key Competencies:

Communication

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Conflict management

Ethics and integrity

Teamwork

Adaptability

• Compliance with Labor Laws:

  • Ensure that the company complies with local, state, and federal employment laws and regulations.
  • Stay updated on labor laws, industry standards, and best practices in employee relations.
  • Manage investigations and actions related to workplace harassment, discrimination, and other violations.

• Performance Management:

  • Support the performance management process by ensuring that disciplinary actions are fair, consistent, and aligned with company policies.
  • Advise managers on employee performance issues, coaching, and improvement plans.