Employee Relations Specialist

Aston Carter - Washington, DC

Full-time - Mid Level

Washington, DC

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

The Employee Relations Specialist serves as the primary HR contact for branch operations, focusing on communication between corporate departments and branches. This role involves managing complex employee relations issues, conducting investigations, ensuring legal compliance, and advising leadership on performance management. The specialist aims to enhance work relationships, identify talent issues, and maintain a positive work environment.

Responsibilities

• Act as the key HR point of contact for branch operations and facilitate communication between corporate departments and branch operations.
• Collaborate with HR partners to ensure standardization of HR practices across the organization.
• Manage and resolve complex employee relations issues, conducting effective, thorough, and objective investigations.
• Facilitate the interactive accommodation process under the ADA, advising management on reasonable accommodations.
• Conduct exit interviews, summarize findings, and discuss trends and concerns with upper management.
• Collaborate with safety and branch leaders to manage personal illness and injury cases effectively.
• Advise upper leadership in performance management techniques, including motivational coaching, performance improvement plans, and disciplinary actions.
• Work closely with management and employees to improve work relationships, build morale, and increase productivity and retention.
• Identify talent issues before they affect the business and act as a talent scout for internal promotions.
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of legal requirements related to day-to-day management of employees, reducing legal risks and ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Analyze trends and metrics in partnership with the HR group to develop solutions, programs, and policies through quarterly audits.
• Train branch operations on recruiting compliance, EEO principles, and anti-discrimination practices.
• Conduct anti-harassment training across the region per federal and state requirements.

Requirements

• 1-2 years' experience in conducting investigations regarding employee complaints, conflicts, or disciplinary matters.
• At least 3 years' experience working in human resources in a business partner, generalist, or compliance capacity.
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or related discipline, or comparable work experience.
• 1-2 years' experience advising senior leadership in performance management techniques.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws.
• Broad knowledge of and the ability to interpret and apply human resources concepts and best practices.
• Proven track record of championing Human Resources initiatives with creativity and innovation.
• Ability to apply discretion and sound judgment in managing processes and handling sensitive information.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in developing and maintaining employee relations.
• A coaching approach when giving employees feedback.
• Excitement about traveling to different branches to develop relationships across the company.
• Experience in consulting, coaching, and counseling.
• Understanding of business strategy.