EMPLOYEE RELATIONS CONSULTANT

$62,000 - $62,000/Yr

Ithaca College - Ithaca, NY

Full-time - Entry Level

Ithaca, NY

1,001-5,000 employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Employee Relations Consultant at Ithaca College plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive employee relations consultation and intervention for both managers and employees. This position requires a high level of discretion, sound judgment, and confidentiality, particularly when managing sensitive issues that arise within the workplace. The consultant will conduct thorough and objective investigations into reports of misconduct and discrimination, supporting both employees and supervisors in identifying mitigation strategies. Additionally, the consultant will analyze trends and collaborate with leadership to recommend educational and supportive resources to enhance the workplace environment. In this role, the consultant will perform intake processes, conduct interviews, assess complex employee relations issues, and recommend resolutions. They will provide coaching and guidance to leadership on appropriate resolutions and promote positive employee relations programs. This includes offering conflict and dispute resolution services and collaborating with the Director of Staff Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging to investigate and resolve discrimination reports. The consultant will compile and analyze information from interviews and investigations, prepare detailed reports, and draft outcome letters to communicate findings effectively. The consultant will also be responsible for developing and maintaining progressive discipline policies and ensuring compliance with legal requirements related to employee management. They will work closely with the Employee Training and Development Consultant to address performance concerns and maintain a tracking system for employee relations cases. This position requires a proactive approach to data analysis to identify trends that inform HR strategies and training opportunities. The consultant will also provide guidance on HR policies and ensure that the college remains compliant with federal and state laws and regulations. A key aspect of this role is to foster a multicultural awareness and contribute to an inclusive and respectful college community. The consultant will engage in educational opportunities to enhance understanding of diversity and inclusion, promoting a collaborative work environment that values diverse perspectives and experiences.

Responsibilities

• Perform intake, conduct interviews, assess, manage and recommend resolutions to complex employee relations issues.
• Conduct effective, thorough and objective investigations.
• Provide coaching and guidance to leadership in determining appropriate resolutions.
• Promote positive employee relations programs and initiatives, including conflict and dispute resolution services.
• Provide guidance and consultation to employees and supervisors in resolving individual workplace disputes.
• Investigate and facilitate the resolution of reports of discrimination in collaboration with the Director of Staff Equity, Inclusion and Belonging.
• Compile and analyze interview and investigation information, prepare detailed reports, and draft outcome letters.
• Develop, maintain and administer progressive discipline policy and guidelines.
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of legal requirements related to employee management, reducing legal risks and ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with the Employee Training and Development Consultant regarding performance concerns that may lead to verbal and written warnings or termination.
• Develop, implement and maintain a tracking system for employee relations cases and perform data analysis to identify trends.
• Prepare various reports and gather information as requested regarding employee complaints and disputes.
• Provide HR policy guidance and interpretation; revise and draft policies as needed.
• Stay updated on key developments, trends, and changes to ensure compliance with laws and college policies.
• Cultivate an inclusive, diverse, and respectful College community through civil and inclusive behavior.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 2 years of experience managing employee relations issues.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Understanding of employment law and HR best practices.
• Ability to handle sensitive matters with tact and confidentiality.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits including work/life balance.
• Generous paid time off policies.
• Career-enhancing trainings.
• Educational benefits.
• Opportunities to give back to the community.