HR Specialist, Employee Relations

El Pollo Loco - Costa Mesa, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Costa Mesa, CA

Food Services and Drinking Places

About the position

The Employee Relations Specialist plays a crucial role in fostering a positive employee relations culture within the organization. This position is responsible for addressing workplace concerns, guiding conflict resolution, and ensuring the fair application of company policies. The specialist acts as the primary liaison with the leave of absence (LOA) vendor, overseeing the administration of LOA processes and ensuring compliance with legal and company guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Conduct prompt and thorough investigations into employee concerns and policy violations.
• Provide guidance and recommendations to managers and employees regarding policies and employee relations issues.
• Support HR leadership in developing and updating employee relations policies and training.
• Maintain confidential employee relations records and ensure compliance with legal standards.
• Manage the company's LOA vendor and oversee communication and escalation of cases.
• Educate employees and managers on LOA policies and procedures, including CFRA, FMLA, ADA, and pregnancy accommodations.
• Monitor LOA cases with the vendor to ensure accurate tracking and documentation.
• Generate reports on employee relations and LOA trends for HR leadership.
• Travel to restaurant locations as needed to support field teams.
• Collaborate with support center and field teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in employee relations or HR compliance, with LOA administration experience preferred.
• Experience in a multi-state, multi-site role, preferably in the restaurant/retail/hotel industry.
• Relevant certifications such as PHR/SPHR, SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP are desired.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state employment laws, including FMLA and ADA.

Nice-to-haves

• Bi-lingual in Spanish is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule
• Competitive pay and bonus
• Medical + Dental + Vision Insurance
• 401(K) Plan with match and immediate vesting
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Vacation + Sick Pay + 12 Paid Holidays
• Dog friendly office
• Free El Pollo Loco food (Dine Out Card) + Restaurant Discount
• Discounts on theme parks, movie tickets, sports events, hotels and more.