What are the responsibilities and job description for the Employee Relations Specialist position at CPS Recruitment?
Employee Relations Specialist
This role plays a key part in ensuring fair, compliant, and professional handling of employee relations matters across a geographically diverse workforce.
The Key Responsibilities include:
- Conducting internal employee relations investigations, including complaints related to workplace conduct, harassment, discrimination, or policy violations.
- Partnering with organizational leads to interview involved parties, collect documentation, and summarize findings.
- Preparing detailed investigation reports with recommendations for appropriate action.
- Guiding managers through performance improvement processes, including coaching plans, verbal/written warnings, and disciplinary documentation.
- Serving as a trusted HR resource for conflict resolution and workplace issue escalation.
- Reviewing and applying HR policies consistently, ensuring compliance with state and federal labor laws.
- Collaborating with HR leadership and legal counsel, when needed, on complex employee relations cases.
- Maintaining up-to-date and accurate records of all employee relations matters in accordance with confidentiality requirements.
- Training and coaching supervisors on best practices for handling employee concerns, progressive discipline, and consistent application of company policies.
- Participating as an HR representative in meetings related to terminations, investigations, or policy interpretation.
- Coordinating and supporting the annual All-Staff Conference, including vendor management, registration, and logistics (educational event, not social).
The Qualifications include:
- A Bachelor's degree required.
- Minimum 2–3 years of employee relations experience, including investigations and disciplinary action support.
- Demonstrated knowledge of New York State labor laws, HR policies, and compliance requirements.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with an ability to handle sensitive matters with professionalism and discretion.
- An ability to work independently while collaborating with a larger HR team.
- A valid driver's license or access to reliable transportation required for occasional travel across NY State.
- Experience in human services, healthcare, or nonprofit settings preferred.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and HRIS systems.
The Work Environment is:
- Hybrid/Remote: No required office days; occasional travel (1–2 times/month) for investigations, meetings, or events.
- Reports to the Director of Human Resources; collaborates with HR and leadership across multiple affiliated organizations.
- A supportive structure: Each investigation is conducted as part of a 2-person team.
