Employee Relations Specialist

Employee Relations SpecialistLocation: Kansas City, MO, US, 64106 Best People + Right Culture. These are the driving forces behind JE Dunn's success. By hiring inspired people, giving them interesting and challenging work, enabling them with innovative tools, and letting them share in the company's rewards, we've found a sustainable way to grow in our industry for the last 100+ years. Our diverse teams around the country strive to enrich lives through inspired people and places everyday, and we need inspired people like you to join us in building authentic partnerships.Role Summary The Employee Relations Specialist is responsible for supporting the Employee Relations Center of Excellence through investigations, employee relations consultation, policy support, compliance activities, documentation standards, and employee relations education to promote fair, consistent, and legally compliant workplace practices. This position is responsible for supporting and executing employee relations programs, conducting investigations, and maintaining employee relations resources. All activities will be performed in support of the strategy, vision, and values of JE Dunn. Autonomy & Decision-Making: Makes decisions on non-routine matters, provides recommendations to supervisor, and refers all exceptions to supervisor. Career Path: VariousKey Role Responsibilities- Core HR MANAGEMENT FAMILY - COREThe primary responsibilities of this role are to conduct workplace investigations, provide employee relations consultation and conflict-resolution support, and contribute to consistent Employee Relations practices across the organization.Employee Relations InvestigationsConducts thorough, objective, and confidential investigations into complaints and grievances. Reviews and investigates employee relations concerns submitted through the Ethics Hotline, partnering with appropriate stakeholders based on the nature and complexity of the matter. Documents findings and recommendations in detailed investigation reports. Assists with employee relations intake, case triage, and escalation processes. Prepares clear investigation summaries, findings, and recommendations and partners with HR leadership on appropriate resolution and follow-through. Collaborates with HR leadership to support consistent and compliant outcomes.Conflict ResolutionMediates conflicts and facilitates resolutions between employees and management. Provides guidance and support to internal stakeholders on resolving workplace disputes. Assesses, de-escalates, and supports resolution of workplace concerns, providing clear guidance and coaching to HR Business Partners, leaders, and employees as appropriate.Additional role responsibilities include but are not limited to the following.Training and DevelopmentAssists with development and delivery of training program on employee relations, compliance, and conflict resolution. Supports development and maintenance of employee relations templates and resources. Tracks employee relations matters and organizes case data to provide Employee Relations leadership visibility into trends, recurring themes, and areas requiring broader review or action. Helps educate HR partners, employees, and managers on company policies, procedures, and best practices. Analyzes employee relations data to identify trends and areas for improvement.Workplace AccommodationsSupports workplace accommodation administration and other compliance-related employee relations processes.Policy & ComplianceEnsures compliance with federal, state and local employment laws and regulations. Assists with maintenance and administration of policies and procedures to promote compliance and mitigate risk. Monitors changes in labor laws and supports updates to company policies and practices as needed.Other duties as assigned.Knowledge, Skills & AbilitiesInvestigative and conflict resolution skills with a focus on problem-solving. Timely and accurate work with attention to detail. Strong verbal and written communications skills, including effective presentations. Proficient in MS Office and adaptable to various software tools. Strong knowledge of HR policies, employee relations, and employment laws. Proven ability to support change and assist with the design of HR solutions that foster a positive culture. Technology advocate, using data to enhance decision-making and efficiency. Self-motivated and accountable, demonstrating initiative in all tasks. Strong organizational and listening skills, fostering collaboration and relationship-building. High emotional intelligence, handling sensitive issues with empathy.EducationBachelor's degree in human resources or related field (Required) In lieu of the above requirements, equivalent relevant experience will be considered.Experience5+ years relevant human resources experience (Required) Experience with navigating complex investigations, employee relations, employment laws and regulations. (Preferred) Proficiency in HRIS and other relevant software applications.(Preferred) Demonstrates knowledge of the laws and policies affecting employee relations processes, programs, and/or strategies, including but not limited to: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, FMLA, ADA, FLSA, NLRB, etc.(Preferred) Provides demonstrated knowledge in specialized regulatory areas globally (including EEO, ADA, OFCCP, FMLA, WARN Act, OSHA, FLSA, etc.)(Preferred) Bilingual (English/Spanish). (Preferred)Working EnvironmentMust be able to lift up to 10 pounds May require periods of travel Normal office environment Frequent activity: Sitting, Viewing Computer Screen Occasional activity: Bending, Climbing, Reaching above Shoulder, Pushing, PullingBenefits InformationThe benefits package aligned to this position is Professional Non-Union. Please click the link below for more details.Why People Work HereAt JE Dunn we offer our employees an inspired place to enrich their life and the lives of those around them Building on our rich history, our employee owners are shaping the future of JE Dunn. In our team-focused environment we do life together and are generously rewarded for our effortsAbout JE DunnFor more information on who we are, click here.