Employee Relations Specialist

We are looking for a Senior Employee Relations Specialist to join a mission-driven non-profit organization in Oakland, California on a Contract basis. In this role, you will support HR leadership by guiding managers through complex workplace matters, strengthening employee relations practices, and helping maintain a respectful and inclusive environment. This position plays a key part in balancing employee experience with compliance, risk management, and consistent application of policies, labor agreements, and performance standards.Responsibilities:• Manage employee relations matters from initial review through resolution, ensuring each case is handled promptly, consistently, and with complete documentation.• Develop and refine employee relations tools, including materials used for investigations, corrective action, and performance improvement planning.• Facilitate resolution of workplace concerns by using mediation, coaching, and sound judgment to support fair outcomes.• Conduct comprehensive workplace investigations that are well-documented, objective, and aligned with legal and organizational standards.• Advise supervisors and department leaders on employee relations concerns, policy interpretation, performance issues, and compliant management practices.• Provide expertise in union and labor relations, including guidance related to collective bargaining agreements and grievance-related matters.• Track employee relations activity, maintain organized records, and identify patterns or recurring issues that may require broader HR action.• Support employee engagement and retention efforts through consistent recognition practices and onboarding-related collaboration that improves the overall employee experience.• Partner with leadership during organizational change initiatives by encouraging clear communication, trust, and employee engagement throughout transitions.Requirements Of the Position• At least 7 years of experience in employee relations, labor relations, or a closely related human resources function.• Demonstrated experience handling employee investigations, performance management matters, and complex workplace conflict resolution.• Strong knowledge of local employment law, employee relations compliance, and documentation best practices.• Experience working with union environments, including collective bargaining agreements, union contracts, and grievance processes; direct labor relations experience is strongly preferred.• Excellent written communication skills with the ability to produce clear, accurate, and thorough case records and guidance materials.• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills with a detail-oriented, empathetic, and solutions-focused approach.• High integrity, sound judgment, and the ability to build credibility with employees, managers, and HR leadership.• Experience with HR systems is helpful; familiarity with organizational platforms is a plus.