Employee Relations Specialist

Employee Relations SpecialistThe Employee Relations Specialist is responsible for fostering a positive, productive, and compliant workplace by managing employee relations matters, conducting workplace investigations, interpreting and applying company policies, and providing guidance to employees and leaders. This role partners with management to address workplace concerns, resolve conflicts, maintain appropriate documentation, and promote consistent and fair employment practices.ResponsibilitiesManage and respond to employee relations matters, including employee complaints, workplace conflicts, performance concerns, attendance issues, and policy violations.Conduct timely, thorough, and objective workplace investigations, including employee interviews, documentation review, fact-finding, and preparation of investigation summaries and recommendations.Partner with managers and HR leadership to develop appropriate resolutions and corrective actions based on company policies, facts, and applicable employment laws.Provide guidance to managers regarding performance management, disciplinary actions, employee conduct, attendance, workplace behavior, and policy interpretation.Maintain accurate and confidential Employee Relations documentation, including investigation records, interview notes, corrective actions, and case tracking.Identify recurring employee relations trends and recommend improvements to policies, procedures, training, and workplace practices.Ensure employee relations practices are applied consistently and in accordance with federal, state, and local employment laws and company policies.Support the development, interpretation, and implementation of HR policies and programs.Collaborate with HR, Legal, Safety, Payroll, and other departments as appropriate to address complex employee relations matters.Provide coaching and consultation to leaders to improve employee engagement, communication, accountability, and workplace effectiveness.Assist with employee termination processes and ensure appropriate documentation and approvals are completed.Maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive employee information.Run new hire orientations.Essential Skills3+ years of experience within human resources with a primary focus on employee relations.Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS systems, experience with Paycor is a plus.Direct experience in interviewing, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and documentation skills.Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment in sensitive situations.Bilingual in Spanish.Additional Skills & QualificationsBA Degree.Experience with payroll is a plus.Knowledge of leave of absence management.Understanding of employment law and compliance.Experience in benefit setup.Work EnvironmentThis is a temporary-to-hire position with working hours from 8 am to 4:30 pm, with some flexibility. The role requires 100% onsite presence. The Employee Relations Specialist will be the 7th member of a tight-knit HR team that values communication and independent working capabilities. The team works hard but maintains a friendly atmosphere.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Riverside, CA.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $26.00 - $41.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Riverside, CA.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Sep 29, 2026.