Senior Employee Relations Specialist

Senior Employee Relations Specialist

Step into a critical, high-impact role at Montana State University as our Employee Relations Specialist, where your investigative expertise will directly drive the resolution of complex workplace challenges. We are seeking a principled professional to navigate sensitive personnel matters head-on, ensuring fair, compliant, and consistent practices through objective analysis and strategic leadership guidance.

The Employee Relations Specialist performs human resources work focused on resolving complex employee relations matters, conducting impartial workplace investigations, and providing practical guidance to support consistent and effective workplace practices. This role supports the Human Resources team and serves MSU administrators, faculty and staff by providing thoughtful consultation, timely issue resolution, policy guidance, and coaching. The position also contributes to the development and delivery of training, resources, and proactive employee relations initiatives that strengthen workplace culture and compliance. Ultimately, the Employee Relations Specialist helps ensure organizational practices are fair, consistent, and aligned with applicable policies, procedures, and employment laws.

Education & Experience: Bachelor's degree in human resources administration, labor or industrial relations, business or public administration, or a related field, plus at least five years of recent and relevant professional HR experience applying human resources concepts, principles, and practices; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

The successful candidate will effectively and confidently communicate complex concepts verbally and in writing to groups and individuals with varied levels of understanding. Navigate highly sensitive and confidential situations with a strict commitment to objectivity, accuracy, and close attention to detail. Apply, explain, and interpret institutional guidelines, employment laws, and HR procedures for a wide variety of employees and leaders. Maintain a neutral, impartial demeanor when evaluating sensitive workplace concerns, assessing conflicts, and conducting formal internal investigations. Represent the Human Resources department with professionalism, credibility, and courtesy while seamlessly adapting to evolving workplace dynamics.