Senior Associate Relations Specialist

Summary of Job Description The Sr. Associate Relations Analyst position is responsible for leading investigations to resolve associate complaints or concerns in collaboration with Field HR. This position conducts and completes the investigation and communicates with Field HR and Operations on the status of the investigation and remedial actions. The Sr. Associate Relations Analyst accurately assesses risk and liability in each case and documents findings in the case management database. Job Responsibilities Responds to and leads the investigation to resolve associate complaints and concerns. Independently investigates highly complex and sensitive complaints. Effectively and efficiently conducts Title VII and Title IX workplace investigations with minimal oversight. Conducts and completes the investigation thoroughly and in a timely manner. Effectively communicates and collaborates with Field HR, Legal and Operations on status of investigation and remedial actions. Effectively plans and documents the investigation. Maintains accurate records in compliance with company procedures and recommends actions to be taken. Develops and maintains thorough high‑quality case documents for investigations and employee relations work, including investigation notes, summaries, timelines, reports, letters, corrective action documents and warnings. Effectively prepares and presents investigation findings resolution options to all levels of management. Documents findings into the case management database. Accurately assesses risk and liability in each case as a Subject Matter Expert. Resolves associate relations concerns following federal and state laws and company policies through effective interaction with associates, Operations leaders and Field HR. Ensures consistency with company policies. Develops and implements positive workforce practices and strategies in collaboration with Field HR and Operations. Leads periodic and quarterly AR trend reviews with Operations Leaders for assigned regions. Provides training, advice, and counsel to Operations on associate relations issues. Leads preparation of formal written responses and supporting documentation related to any associate relations charges (e.g., discrimination, harassment, etc.) as required from within the company and from external agencies. Prepares for EEO hearings and mediations and assists in negotiating settlements. Researches root causes when reviewing trends within region. Shares high‑level overview of other areas to help identify areas with more cases and identify trends. Runs and analyzes periodic reports for all AR cases and compares data to previous periods to share with the AR team and/or FHR partners. Leads special projects, training or other assignments as required. May mentor AR team members. How We Reward You Hybrid work schedule 401(k) with company match Yearly bonus opportunity Full medical, dental, and vision insurance On‑site fitness center, biometric screen, and flu shot clinic Discounts at Panda restaurants, theme parks, and gym memberships Paid time off starting at 15 days with 7 federal holidays Continuous education assistance and scholarships Income protection including disability, life and AD&D insurance Bereavement leave Benefits available for eligible permanent full‑time associates Qualifications – External Bachelor’s degree in HR or related field required 5+ years of experience in HR related to associate relations issues, preferably in a retail/hospitality operations environment Successful completion of initial and periodically required trainings. Obtaining a valid Food Handler's Card within 30 days of employment is a requirement of this position. Pay Range : P3: $90,000 – $126,500 per year Equal Opportunity Employment Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal opportunity, and does not discriminate on the basis of any characteristic protected by law, including but not limited to sex/gender, gender expression, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, marital status and veteran status. Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. complies with all federal, state and local laws regarding requests for workplace accommodation. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability. Applicants are entitled to reasonable accommodations, absent undue hardship, to effectively participate in the application and hiring process, for example sign language interpreters. If you believe you require an accommodation for the application or interview process or for the position for which you are applying, please reach out to View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr Panda Restaurant Group