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, serving as an experienced resource within the employee relations function. The role includes performance management cases, facilitating the semi‑annual performance review process, leaves and accommodations, and exit interview process. This position may also flex into other functional areas of HR to provide assistance and/or back‑up support. Locations: Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX; Dover, OH; Long Beach, CA; Portland, OR; Cleveland, OH. Remote or hybrid options may be available depending on business needs. Your Contributions and Responsibilities Research and resolve a variety of complex employee relations and performance management issues/concerns for designated positions, with minimal direction from the Assistant Director of Human Resources. Recommend course of action from coaching to formal discipline to termination decisions. Draft employee relations meeting notes, performance improvement plans, disciplinary actions, and other types of 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 being managed by the Assistant Director of HR. Facilitate the semi‑annual performance review process for designated office(s) or client groups, including assisting with system set‑up, supporting leaders in developing content/message, and conducting HR review and approval of feedback. Conduct exit interviews and oversee 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 to recommend appropriate and reasonable accommodations. Assist in developing and presenting employee and management development training courses. Assist with HR 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. Background and Skills Experience working in a multi‑state organization. Prior experience working in a professional services firm. HRCI/SHRM certification is desirable. Bachelor’s degree in a related area plus a minimum of 8 years of experience directly managing employee relations cases. HR Generalist and/or HRBP experience 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 the ability to gather information, conduct analyses, present findings, identify trends, translate findings, and create solutions. Superior skills in writing/documentation, assessing employee relations situations, taking a coaching/collaborative approach, and recommending appropriate actions. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, particularly the ability to analyze and interpret complex HR policies and law and translate them clearly to staff at all levels of the organization. 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 effectively 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. Ability to develop rapport with a variety of personalities, maintain a calm and professional demeanor during stressful situations, and effectively defuse escalated personnel situations. Ability to effectively prioritize a fast‑paced and varied workload, effectively manage a variety of concurrent and shifting priorities. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive work‑related information. Strong computer skills, including advanced skill in Microsoft Office suite (especially Excel) and familiarity with a variety of HR software programs (Paychex Flex and Workday). Ability to work evenings and weekends based on position needs. Compensation Compensation: $98,000 - $133,000 depending on experience. More is possible if experience dictates. EEO Statement Novogradac is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to apply, as we believe that unique perspectives strengthen our ability to achieve excellence. #J-18808-Ljbffr