Employee Relations Specialist

Description

Community Options, Inc.  is a national non-profit agency providing services to individuals with disabilities in 12 states.  We are actively seeking a Senior Employee Relations Specialist  to join our team in  Princeton, NJ. The Senior Employee Relations Specialist is responsible for overseeing complex employee relations (ER) investigations, providing expert advice to HR professionals and managers, and ensuring that all employee-related concerns are managed with consistency, thoroughness, and in full compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. In addition to investigations, this role supports the development of ER programs, assists with policy creation, and ensures adherence to HR compliance standards. The Senior ER Specialist also guides HR Generalists (HRGs) in best practices, playing a critical role in fostering a positive, inclusive, and compliant workplace environment, while mitigating risks related to employee relations and HR compliance matters. Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex investigations related to employee misconduct, discrimination, 
  harassment, and other ER issues
• Conduct thorough interviews with complainants, respondents, and witnesses to gather and 
  assess all relevant information impartially
• Provide clear, detailed investigation reports, outlining findings, conclusions, and recommended corrective actions
• Collaborate with senior HR leadership to drive resolutions and ensure actions are compliant with organizational policies, employment laws, and regulatory standards
• Serve as a key resource and provide ongoing mentorship and guidance to HR Generalists (HRGs) on employee relations cases, conflict resolution, and performance management
• Offer hands-on support and direction for less complex investigations managed by HRGs, 
  ensuring consistent handling of cases across the team
• Lead the development of investigation best practices and ensure HRGs are equipped with the tools, resources, and knowledge to manage cases efficiently
• Provide expert-level advice to HRBPs and HRGs on complex employee relations matters, helping them navigate difficult situations and make informed decisions
• Partner with HR leadership to identify trends and recommend strategies for improving 
  employee relations and workplace culture
• Support HRBPs in addressing performance issues, managing conflicts, and implementing 
  corrective actions in a fair, compliant, and legally sound manner
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and company policies, 
  advising managers and HR professionals on regulatory matters
• Assist in the development, implementation, and continuous review of ER and HR compliance policies and procedures to maintain adherence to legal requirements
• Work closely with HR leadership to design and deliver compliance training for HRGs and 
  managers on ER processes, investigations, and best practices
• Monitor HR activities to ensure compliance with internal policies and external legal 
  requirements, minimizing risk and exposure to legal action
• Analyze employee relations and HR compliance data to identify trends and provide insights to HR leadership, helping to proactively address recurring issues
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of employee relations investigations, complaints, and compliance activities, ensuring they meet legal and organizational standards
• Generate regular reports to highlight key findings, trends, and areas of concern for continuous improvement
• Additional tasks and responsibilities may be assigned
• Employee must cooperate with the license and department staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation
• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of checks of criminal background,
  central registry, child abuse registry, and drug testing

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, or related field (required)
• Minimum of four years of experience in employee relations, investigations, or conflict 
  resolution in a fast-paced environment
• Proven ability to handle complex investigations and provide strategic ER and compliance advice to senior leadership and HR teams
• In-depth knowledge of employment laws (FMLA, ADA, Title VII, etc.) and HR compliance best practices
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills, with experience guiding HR professionals through 
  sensitive matters
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to produce clear and concise reports
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and handle sensitive cases with confidentiality and 
  integrity
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and HRIS systems
• PHR, SHRM-CP, or other relevant HR certifications
• Experience in a nonprofit or healthcare environment
• Strong mediation, conflict resolution, and leadership skills

Why Community Options?

• Competitive Insurance Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)
• Paid Holidays—Including a Birthday Holiday
• Generous PTO
• Employee Incentive & Discount Programs
• 403b Retirement Plan
• Incredible career growth opportunities

 Community Options is an Equal Opportunity Employer  M/F/D/V