STEPS Employee Relations Specialist Senior

Job TitleSTEPS Employee Relations Specialist SeniorRequisition NumberTE09230Department Name3JHRE:Employee Relations/Leave AdministrationWork Location:Lexington, KYSalary Range$19.00 - $25.00/hourType Of PositionTemporaryPosition Time StatusFull-TimeRequired EducationBARequired Related Experience~5 yearsRequired License/Registration/CertificationN/APhysical RequirementsOccasionally lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects up to 50lbsOccasionally standing or walking with objects up to 25lbsSitting at a computer workstation for extended periods of time with repetitive motions (such as typing)Occasional (<10% of the time) job-related travel.Position will primarily be located on-site with potential for a hybrid opportunity.ShiftWork ShiftMonday – FridayExpected Hours per Week8AM – 5PM; additional hours may be required based on departmental needJob SummaryAre you passionate about building strong workplace relationships and helping leaders navigate complex employee situations with confidence? We have the job for you! We’re seeking an experiencedSTEPS Employee Relations Specialist Senior to serve as a trusted advisor and strategic partner within our University and UKHC community.In this role, you’ll play a key part in strengthening workplace relationships by coaching and guiding managers, supervisors, administrators, and employees on the fair and consistent application of policies and practices. You’ll provide expert guidance on employee relations matters, coach leaders through corrective action and performance concerns, and ensure policies and procedures are applied consistently and thoughtfully.What You’ll DoServe as a strategic consultant to managers and supervisors on employee relations matters including: performance concerns, workplace conflict, and corrective action.Provide thoughtful, solutions focused guidance to employees regarding workplace issues.Coach leaders on effective, fair, and policy aligned approaches to workplace challenges.Maintain thorough and accurate employee relations documentation and records through LaborSoft.Interpret and apply University and UK HealthCare policies, procedures, and best practices with consistency and sound judgment.Partner with leadership to proactively address concerns and strengthen team effectiveness.What You BringStrong judgement and the ability to assess situations from multiple perspectives.Confidence in navigating sensitive and complex workplace situations.Excellent coaching and communication skills.Build trust quickly and communicate with clarity, professionalism, and empathy.Have a collaborative, solutions oriented mindset.If you thrive in a role where no two days are the same and are looking for a consultative role, apply today!Skills / Knowledge / AbilitiesExcellent written and oral communication skillsAttention to detailIndependent judgment and decision makingEngages in active listening, objectivity, analytical and critical thinkingAbility to interface effectively with all levels of personnel within the organizationWork Autonomously while maintaining flexibility and adaptabilityUnderstanding of customer/employee’s perspective – remaining nonjudgmental of their views and actionsKnowledge of State and Federal Employment Laws and related liability issuesHigh level of integrity and respect for confidentialityDoes this position have supervisory responsibilities? :NoPreferred Education/ExperiencePrefer Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources or related field. Five (5) years of employee relations experience, highly preferred.Deadline To Apply04/30/2026Our University CommunityWe value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.