Employee Relations Specialist

$104,000 - $104,000/Yr

Vaco - Irvine, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Irvine, CA

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

The Employee Relations Specialist position is a hybrid role based in Irvine, CA, requiring two days on-site work. This is a 6-month contract opportunity aimed at enhancing employee relations within the organization. The specialist will be responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing employee relations programs and policies that promote a positive workplace culture. The role involves providing HR consulting and subject matter expertise to address and resolve issues between employees and the organization, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. In this role, the Employee Relations Specialist will conduct thorough investigations into employee complaints and concerns, resolving conflicts and disputes in a fair and timely manner. They will participate in talent assessments and assist with various HR processes, including performance management, hiring, transfers, and terminations. The specialist will also develop and implement employee relations policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with employment laws and regulations. The position requires the specialist to analyze situations and make timely recommendations that alleviate risk and positively impact both the business and employees. They will assist in performance management processes, advise managers on performance-related issues, and gather data to identify trends that can improve employee performance and retention. Additionally, the specialist will conduct audits to ensure compliance and provide feedback to management, as well as participate in unemployment hearings and assist legal teams in investigations. Collaboration is key in this role, as the specialist will work closely with HR and management to develop employee engagement initiatives and enhance employee satisfaction. They will also conduct exit interviews to analyze trends impacting retention and offer solutions to improve employee satisfaction. The specialist will mentor less experienced HR team members and perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough investigations into employee complaints and concerns, resolving employee conflicts and disputes in a fair and timely manner.
• Participate in talent assessments and assist with talent management, leadership development initiatives, performance management, and core HR processes (e.g., hiring, transfers, and terminations).
• Develop and implement employee relations policies and procedures, ensuring company compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
• Provide guidance to employees on company policies and procedures, facilitating effective communication between employees and management.
• Analyze situations to make timely recommendations that alleviate risk and positively impact the business and employees.
• Assist in performance management processes, including performance reviews and disciplinary actions, and advise managers on performance-related issues.
• Gather, review, and analyze data to identify trends and recommend solutions to improve performance, retention, and the employee experience. Monitor employee engagement levels and track key employee trends.
• Conduct audits to ensure compliance and provide feedback to management. Develop appropriate action plans based on audit findings.
• Participate in unemployment hearings, depositions, wage claims, and audits. Assist Legal in facilitating or investigating lawsuits and agency charges.
• Collaborate with HR and management to develop and implement employee engagement initiatives, enhancing employee satisfaction and retention.
• Serve as an ambassador of the HR team, building rapport and trusted relationships with all levels of employees.
• Conduct exit interviews, analyze trends impacting retention, and offer solutions to improve employee satisfaction and reduce turnover.
• Collaborate with People Development and Training functions to develop and conduct training sessions.
• Partner with internal teams (e.g., Leave of Absence Administrator, HR Systems) to address employment-related needs and concerns.
• Coach or mentor new or less experienced HR team members, providing ongoing guidance and support.
• Work collaboratively and effectively with support center and field employees.

Requirements

• BA/BS degree required, preferably in Human Resources Management.
• Minimum of 7+ years of HR generalist experience in a multi-state, multi-site role, preferably in the restaurant, retail, or hotel industry.
• Valid driver's license.
• PHR/SPHR, SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP, or relevant certifications desired.
• In-depth understanding of employee relations, organizational culture, employee engagement, and HR best practices.
• Extensive knowledge of state, federal, and local employment regulations and compliance.
• Experience in leading, managing, coaching, and developing others.
• Ability to partner with and influence management and all levels of employees.
• Flexible work style and approach based on operational needs and HR partnership.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Knowledge of FMLA/CFRA and ADA matters, including engagement in the interactive process and reasonable accommodations.
• Confidence in executing strategic initiatives and making fact-based decisions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills with internal and external business partners.
• Ability to prioritize and plan work assignments under pressure of frequent and tight deadlines.
• Proficiency with technology, including Microsoft Office Suite applications, customized database applications, and internet research tools.
• Ability to manage and prioritize competing time-sensitive requests while working well in a team atmosphere under pressure.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment on matters of significance to the company.
• Willingness and ability to travel locally and to out-of-state locations as needed.
• Bi-lingual in Spanish is a must.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in the restaurant, retail, or hotel industry is preferred.
• Knowledge of additional HR certifications beyond PHR/SPHR, SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage of $40.00-$50.00 per hour.
• Opportunity for professional development and training.
• Hybrid work environment with flexibility in work location.