Employee Relations Specialist

Rice University - Houston, TX

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Houston, TX

Educational Services

About the position

Rice University is seeking candidates with exceptional interpersonal skills for the position of Employee Relations Specialist (ERS). The ERS will support a variety of employee relations functions, including consulting, conflict resolution, complaint investigation, policy interpretation, performance management, progressive discipline, terminations, exit interviews, and unemployment claims. The role also involves coordinating the university's recognition program and other activities that ensure all employees have the training, information, and tools necessary to be productive throughout the organization. This position is offered as a hybrid role, combining both in-office and remote work to provide flexibility and support collaboration. After successful completion of the probationary period, candidates may work 1-2 days remotely. It is important to note that exempt (salaried) positions under FLSA are not eligible for overtime. The Employee Relations Specialist will serve as the first point of contact for employee relations matters and programs, working closely with employees to resolve issues. The specialist will assist in the development and updating of procedures and processes to support employee relations efforts, address employee complaints, and conduct investigations on employee relation issues and conflicts. Additionally, the ERS will prepare reports to communicate information about employee complaints investigated and resolution status, and work with managers on implementing appropriate actions. The role also includes conducting exit interviews and reviewing reports on exit interviews and employee complaints to determine possible trends and solutions, as well as representing Rice on all unemployment claims.

Responsibilities

• Support senior leadership in the overall administration of the university's employee relations programs and practices.
• Serve as the first point of contact for employee relations matters and programs.
• Work with and advise employees in the resolution of employee relations matters.
• Assist in the development and updating procedures and processes to support employee relations efforts.
• Address employee complaints and investigations on employee relation issues and conflicts.
• Prepare reports to communicate information about employee complaints investigated and resolution status and work with managers on implementing appropriate action.
• Coordinate university recognition programs and make changes as needed.
• Interpret and communicate University policy and procedures.
• Conduct exit interviews and review reports on exit interviews and employee complaints to determine possible trends and solutions.
• Respond to the Texas Workforce Commission regarding unemployment claims.
• Serve as the HR liaison and provide guidance to the university's Staff Advisory Committee.
• Promote Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to staff and conduct mandatory referrals.
• Partner with training staff to develop and deliver training for supervisors on various employee relations topics.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by the Executive Director of People, Equity, and Development and the AVP of Human Resources.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
• 3 years of directly related, progressive experience in employee relations
• Demonstrated knowledge of employment law
• Outstanding interpersonal skills
• Exceptional written and verbal communication, including presentation skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to effectively manage priorities
• Good problem-solving ability

Nice-to-haves

• Spanish Preferred
• Proven work experience as an Employee Relations Specialist or similar role
• Relevant training and/or certifications as an Employee Relations Specialist
• SHRM CP/SCP or PHR/SPH preferred

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401k retirement plan
• Flexible scheduling options
• Paid holidays
• Employee assistance program (EAP)
• Professional development opportunities