Senior Employee Relations Specialist

Senior Employee Relations Specialist Position Summary: The Senior Employee Relations Specialist manages a variety of responsibilities within the employee relations function of the human resources department, including handling a variety of employee relations and performance management cases with increased independence, ownership and complexity. The role serves as an experienced resource within the employee relations function and may also provide assistance or backup support in other HR functional areas. Location: Available at one of the following offices: Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX; Bellevue, WA; Dover, OH; Long Beach, CA; Portland, OR; Cleveland, OH. Remote or hybrid work arrangements may be available depending on business needs. Responsibilities Research and resolve a variety of complex employee relations and performance management issues/concerns for designated positions with minimal direction. Recommend course of action from coaching to formal discipline to termination decisions. Draft employee relations meeting notes, performance improvement plans, disciplinary actions, and other documentation for employee relations cases. Track and follow up on employee relations cases until the case is resolved and closed. Provide data‑driven employee relations insights to identify emerging trends, mitigate risk, and support the development of proactive ER strategies. Conduct intake of employee concerns received by email, phone or via the company’s case management system. Coach leaders on effective communication techniques for employee issues. Assist with internal investigations in response to concerns or complaints and recommend appropriate actions. Act as witness or note‑taker for employee relations cases managed by the Assistant Director of HR. Facilitate the semi‑annual Performance Review process for designated office(s) or client groups, including system set‑up, supporting leaders in developing content/message, and conducting HR review and approval of feedback. Conduct exit interviews and oversee the process; assist in monthly tracking of turnover data. Collaborate and provide backup support for managing requests for employee accommodations (ADA), including facilitating the interactive process between employee and manager, requesting clarification as needed, and reviewing supporting documentation and identifying/recommending appropriate and reasonable accommodations. Assist in developing and presenting employee and management development training courses. Assist with Human Resources projects and collaborate with employees within HR and across other departments to support business needs. Provide back‑up support to the HR department for coverage or other special projects as needed. Complete other job duties as assigned. Qualifications Experience working in a multi‑state organization. Prior experience working in a professional services firm. HRCI/SHRM certification desirable. Bachelor’s degree in related area plus a minimum of 8 years of experience directly managing employee relations cases. HR Generalist and/or HRBP experience would be considered in lieu of specialized roles. Ability to lead by example and lead with a positive and collaborative approach. Ability to mentor and grow staff in the employee relations area. Strong analytical skills—including gathering information, conducting analyses, presenting findings, identifying trends, translating findings, and creating solutions. Superior writing/documentation skills and the ability to assess employee relations situations, take a coaching/collaborative approach, and recommend appropriate actions. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, especially the ability to analyze and interpret complex HR policies and law and translate them clearly to staff at all levels. Demonstrated knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, with the ability to assess risk and recommend compliant, practical solutions. Ability to conduct or lead complex employee relations investigations, including interviewing, evidence analysis, credibility assessments, and preparation of clear, defensible documentation and findings. Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment in complex or sensitive employee relations matters and to independently recommend appropriate resolutions. Ability to consult with and influence leaders at all levels, providing clear guidance on employee relations matters, performance management, and appropriate corrective action. Ability to support organizational change initiatives by anticipating employee relations impacts and advising leaders on communication, risk, and employee concerns. Complete work accurately with strong attention to detail. Develop rapport with a variety of personalities; maintain a calm and professional demeanor during stressful situations and effectively defuse escalated personnel situations. Prioritize a fast‑paced and varied workload, managing concurrent and shifting priorities. Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive work‑related information. Strong computer skills, including solid skill in the Microsoft Office suite (advanced Excel preferred) and familiarity with a variety of HR software programs (Paychex Flex and Workday preferred). Ability to work evenings and weekends as position needs require. Benefits Competitive salary ($104,000 - $141,000, dependent on experience). 401(k) plan with firm profit‑sharing. Discretionary annual bonuses for eligible positions and a CPA bonus plan. Paid holidays per year (increased over industry average). Flexible working hours and work arrangements, including remote and hybrid options. Medical, dental, vision, life/disability insurance and commuter flex accounts. Supportive, inclusive workplace with Employee Resource Groups and affinity groups. Opportunities for professional development and career growth. Novogradac and Company LLP is an equal opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Novogradac & Company LLP