Sr. Employee Relations Specialist

Summary: The Senior Employee Relations Specialist leads and champions initiatives that create an environment where employees feel valued, can be successful and are engaged. Will provide guidance on matters involving performance, behavior, conflict prevention and dispute resolution, and hourly and salaried employment practices. Will respond to and evaluate employee relations issues with a high level of customer focus and sensitivity.Essential FunctionsServes as a point of contact for addressing and resolving employee relations issues, including grievances, interpersonal conflicts, workplace concerns, and policy violations.Manages the full performance management process including annual performance evaluations, disciplinary actions and performance improvement plans. Maintains job descriptions, including management of the job titles in the HRIS. In partnership with HR leadership, assists with the development and implementation of employee relations policies, procedures, and guidelines.Track employee relations metrics and produce trend analysis to be able to recommend proactive solutions to strengthen culture and reduce riskHandles all Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and State Division of Human Rights (SDHR) complaints in conjunction with legal counsel and HR management.Administers the equal employment opportunity and affirmative action programs with the assistance from contracted preparer.Implements and monitors Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) for employees requiring additional support, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and legal requirements.Conducts complex internal investigations related to employee concerns and escalate investigations to the Senior Director of Human Resources as needed.Conducts exit interviews, summarize findings, and prepare reports showing trends and concerns for management to review.Stays current on federal and state employment laws and regulations, proactively advising leadership on compliance, risk mitigation and emerging trends.Assists with recordkeeping related to hiring, termination, credentialing, transfer, and promotion, particularly as related to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), affirmative action, and diversity initiatives.Assist with Human Resources aspects of Department of Health audits.Investigate reported worksite incidents, prepare monthly reports for the Senior Leadership TeamParticipate in the Safety CommitteeAssists with leadership development training.Other duties/projects as assigned.This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; and nothing in this herein restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.Education RequirementsBachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business, Labor Relations or related field required.Qualifications and RequirementsMinimum of 5 years of progressive Human Resources experience in a Union and/or Non-Union environment.Certification for Human Resource Professionals (SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR) preferred.Working knowledge of Federal and State regulations.Proven ability to operate independently and maintain confidentiality. Customer-focused attitude, with high-level of professionalism and discretion.Exceptional computer skills with MS Office proficiency.ADP Workforce Now experience preferred.Ability and desire to travel is required.Valid driver's license with satisfactory driving record within company required standards preferred.