Senior Employee Relations Specialist

Description Long Term Contract Role - Hybrid (Twice a week on-site - TRAVEL REQ. around the East Bay and South Bay Area)

Job Function Details:

The Employee Relations Specialist is responsible for managing complex employee relations matters and supporting a positive, compliant workplace environment. This role partners closely with HR leadership, managers, and employees to address workplace concerns, conduct investigations, and ensure consistent application of company policies and employment laws. The Employee Relations Specialist serves as a trusted advisor to leadership by providing guidance on employee relations strategies, conflict resolution, performance management, and workplace investigations. Labor Relations & Union Partnership + Interpret and administer collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) to ensure compliance with contract provisions. + Serve as a liaison between management and union representatives to maintain effective labor-management relationships. + Participate in labor-management meetings and support ongoing union partnership initiatives. + Provide guidance to managers regarding union contract provisions and workplace practices. Grievance Management + Manage and track employee grievances in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement. + Investigate grievance claims and gather relevant documentation, witness statements, and supporting evidence. + Partner with HR leadership and legal teams to prepare responses and recommendations for grievance resolution. + Participate in grievance meetings and assist with arbitration preparation when necessary. Workplace Investigations + Conduct prompt, thorough, and impartial investigations into employee complaints including workplace misconduct, harassment, discrimination, and policy violations. + Interview employees and management, review documentation, and evaluate evidence. + Prepare detailed investigation reports, findings, and recommendations for HR leadership. Manager Coaching & Employee Relations + Advise managers on employee relations matters including performance management, disciplinary actions, attendance issues, and workplace conflicts. + Provide guidance on progressive discipline processes in accordance with both company policy and union agreements. + Assist managers in documenting performance concerns and corrective actions. Policy & Compliance + Ensure consistent application of company policies, procedures, and collective bargaining agreements. + Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws as well as labor regulations. + Partner with HR leadership to update policies and procedures as needed. Requirements

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in human resources, with at least 3 years of end to end employee relations/labor relations experience.
• Proven experience working in unionized environments, including interpreting and administering collective bargaining agreements.
• Strong knowledge of labor laws, HR compliance, and employee relations best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to manage performance management processes and drive employee engagement.
• Expertise in organizational development and workforce planning.
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Proficiency in training and development strategies to enhance employee capabilities.
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.

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