Employee Relations Specialist

Position Summary The Employee Relations Specialist manages a variety of responsibilities within the employee relations function of the human resources department, including handling complex employee relations and performance management cases, facilitating the semi‑annual Performance Evaluation process, and serving as a backup for leaves of absence and accommodations. This position may also flex into other functional areas of HR to provide assistance and/or back‑up support. Responsibilities Research and resolve a variety of complex employee relations and performance management issues/concerns for designated positions, with direction and oversight from the Assistant Director of Human Resources. Recommend a course of action ranging from coaching to formal discipline to termination decisions. Draft employee relations meeting notes, performance improvement plans, disciplinary actions, and other types of communication/documentation for employee relations cases. Track and follow up on employee relations cases until the case is resolved and closed. 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 in the facilitation of 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; assist in monthly tracking of turnover data. May assist with internal investigations in response to concerns or complaints and recommend appropriate actions. Act as witness or note‑taker, when needed, for employee relations cases managed by other team members or the Assistant Director of HR. Provide backup support for the company’s Leave of Absence (LOA) program, including required paperwork, tracking requests/approvals/return‑to‑work, case management, and maintaining confidential LOA files. Collaborate and provide backup support for managing requests for employee accommodations (ADA), including facilitating the interactive process, requesting clarification as needed, reviewing supporting documentation, and identifying/recommending appropriate and reasonable accommodations. Assist in developing and presenting employee and management development training courses. 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 is desirable. Bachelor’s degree in a related field plus a minimum of 5 years of experience directly managing employee relations cases. HR Generalist and/or HRBP experience is considered in lieu of specialized roles. Strong analytical skills, including the ability to gather information, conduct analyses, present 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, with the ability to analyze and interpret complex HR policies and law and translate them clearly to staff at all levels of the organization. Ability to 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 prioritize a fast‑paced and varied workload and manage multiple concurrent and shifting priorities. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive work‑related information. Strong computer skills, including solid expertise in the Microsoft Office suite (advanced Excel preferred) and familiarity with HR software programs (Paychex Flex and Workday, preferred). Able to work evenings and weekends based on position needs. Benefits Increased number of paid holidays per year. Competitive salaries with continuous market reviews. Flexible working hours and arrangements. Remote and hybrid opportunities. Inclusive workplace with strong professional growth and development opportunities. 401(k) package with firm profit‑sharing. Discretionary annual bonuses for eligible positions & CPA bonus plan. Strong emphasis on quality work‑life integration. Dress for your day policy. Resources of a national firm. Location Atlanta, GA Austin, TX Dover, OH Long Beach, CA Portland, OR Cleveland, OH Some positions may be open to remote or hybrid work arrangements depending on business needs. To be considered for this position, interested candidates MUST apply via our company website: Novogradac is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to ensuring a fair and inclusive recruitment process, making reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities or special needs throughout the application process. #J-18808-Ljbffr