Employee & Labor Relations Specialist

Job Description Stanford University Human Resources (UHR) is seeking an Employee & Labor Relations Specialist who will contribute to all areas of employee and labor relations university-wide. This position includes interpreting and drafting policy/contract language, adjudicating background check matters, providing guidance on corrective actions, separations, and grievances, and conducting investigations and drafting reports. The ideal candidate will possess the ability to make sound decisions while maintaining the highest level of discretion and confidentiality, will be self‑motivated in a fast‑paced environment, and have the ability to work independently and with a team. This position is hybrid, requiring on‑site presence at least two days per week at Stanford’s Redwood City campus. Applicants are asked to submit a resume and a cover letter highlighting their relevant experience. Job Purpose Provide advice, counsel, and training to Human Resources representatives, managers, employees, and other members of the Stanford community in non‑routine moderately complex employee and labor relations matters. Core Duties Manage local efforts in coordination with legal counsel related to non‑routine or moderately complex employment matters, litigation, and government agency charges. Provide advice and counsel regarding leave administration, e.g., FMLA, CFRA, and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and related interactive process requirements. Manage all facets of employee relations, including investigations and resolutions of employment disputes, and maintain accurate documentation of investigations or other labor matters. Provide advice and counsel regarding reductions in workforce, terminations, or corrective action. Facilitate sound and consistent employee and labor relations decisions. Act as an objective and confidential intermediary for employees and supervisors; manage conflict resolution, mediation facilitation, problem‑solving, and negotiation with or between supervisors and employees. Provide guidance to managers, supervisors, and employees on university policies, procedures, and collective bargaining agreements. Design and deliver training for employees, supervisors, managers, and local human resource managers pertaining to employee relations and related compliance. Manage the development of policies, processes, and communications applicable university‑wide. Manage collective bargaining agreements for a school/unit or university‑wide basis, facilitating contract negotiations, responding to grievances and information requests, and assisting with arbitrations. Research trends and practices in labor/employee relations, report findings, and propose and develop programs to enhance relations at the university. Conduct investigations, hearings, and conflict resolution meetings as needed. Adjudicate background check issues. Manage the Protection of Minors program, policies, and processes university‑wide. Minimum Requirements Bachelor’s degree in human resources management, labor law, organizational behavior, or another related field and 3-5 years of relevant experience, or a combination of education and experience. Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Intermediate to advanced knowledge of employee and labor relations, the National Labor Relations Act, the National Labor Relations Board, and state and federal employment laws. Working knowledge of Employment Retirement Income Security Act requirements. Demonstrated experience with mediation and other dispute resolution systems and techniques; experience managing a dispute resolution or grievance program. Ability to develop and maintain collaborative working relationships in a consulting environment. Excellent coaching skills regarding employee and labor relations. Ability to work independently with moderate supervision in a team‑based environment. Experience managing collective bargaining agreements; interest‑based negotiations and problem‑solving strongly preferred. Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills; excellent presentation skills; project‑management skills across multiple locations or units. Ability to handle confidential and sensitive matters. Strong, fundamental computer skills in technology and platforms supporting business operations and communications. Certificates and Licenses None. Physical Requirements Frequently stand/walk, sit, perform desk‑based computer tasks, use a telephone, and perform light/fine manipulation. Occasionally twist/bend/stoop/squat, reach/work above shoulders, grasp forcefully, lift/carry/push/pull objects up to 10 pounds, write by hand, sort/file paperwork. Rarely kneel/crawl. Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform essential functions. Working Conditions Travel on campus to schools/units; occasional out‑of‑town travel. Work Standards Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations. Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and the value of safety; communicates safety concerns; promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to those in the University’s Administrative Guide. Compensation The expected pay range for this position is $140,000 – $165,000 per annum. Pay will be determined based on scope and responsibilities, qualifications, departmental budget, internal equity, geography, and market conditions. Equal Employment Opportunity Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Stanford University