Employee Relations Specialist - Human Resources

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), the public defender agency of Massachusetts, is seeking a full‑time Employee Relations Specialist to support the Chief Human Resource Officer and two Directors of Human Resources in addressing a broad range of employee relations issues. This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule with a minimum of two days per week in the Boston office and will require frequent travel to other Commonwealth sites. Position Overview The Employee Relations Specialist will play a pivotal role in advancing CPCS’s mission by working with managers and employees to address employee relations matters. The role reports to a Human Resource Director and supports managers and employees in all Employee Relations matters. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or a related field and at least four (4) years of human resources or related work in employee relations, or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and skills. Access to a personal automobile for travel and reliable home internet access for remote work. SHRM‑CP or SHRM‑SCP preferred. Proven experience in employee relations roles, preferably within HR. In‑depth knowledge of employment and labor laws, regulations, and best practices. Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem‑solving skills, including conflict resolution and negotiation experience. Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Proficiency in HRIS software and Microsoft Office Suite. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with employees and diverse stakeholders. Passion for public defense and a commitment to social justice. Responsibilities Act as primary point of contact for managers and employees regarding employee relations issues, providing timely guidance and support. Ensure compliance with CPCS policies and procedures and monitor feedback on agency policies. Align employee relations processes with agency policies to maintain fairness and clarity. Investigate misconduct, policy violations, or harassment incidents, including interviewing witnesses, reporting findings, and recommending appropriate disciplinary or corrective actions. Draft investigatory reports and other documents related to employee relations matters. Assist managers in determining appropriate disciplinary actions for employee misconduct or performance issues and document the process. Implement initiatives to promote employee engagement, satisfaction, retention, and enhance workplace culture. Collaborate with the Learning and Development team to develop employee‑relations training for managers and employees. Assist in performance evaluation and management processes, including coaching managers on performance‑related issues. Encourage open, proactive communication and honest feedback from staff, addressing concerns promptly. Maintain accurate records of employee‑relations cases, investigations, and outcomes; prepare reports and analyses for management review. Stay abreast of relevant laws, regulations, and industry trends related to employee relations. Perform other duties as assigned. EEO Statement The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran or military status, genetic information, gender identity, or sexual orientation as required by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other applicable federal and state statutes and organizational policies. Applicants who have questions about equal employment opportunity or who need reasonable accommodations can contact the Chief Human Resources Officer, Sandra DeBow-Huang, at View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr Commonwealth of Massachusetts