Employee Relations Leader

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT); Arlington (VA); Hybrid; USD 114,000 - 206,000; Full time

Job summary

Innovative Defense Technologies seeks an Employee Relations Leader to enhance culture and compliance in the workplace across its U.S. offices. This role involves guiding leadership and staff in employee relations strategies, ensuring a supportive environment, and requires extensive experience in HR and government contractor sectors. The successful candidate will embody innovation and accountability, contributing to IDT's mission of operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of HR experience, with 10+ years in employee relations focused on government contractors.
• Strong knowledge of employment laws including DoD-specific requirements.
• HR Certification in SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead employee relations initiatives and ensure legally compliant workplace environment.
• Provide guidance on performance management and conflict resolution.
• Conduct investigations into grievances and workplace issues.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Emotional intelligence

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Join to apply for the Employee Relations Leader role at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT)

Join to apply for the Employee Relations Leader role at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT)

Description

Background Information:

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting-edge cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD), is seeking an Employee Relations Leader to join the Human Resources team and be based in our Arlington, VA office. Leveraging advanced software automation, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), and AI-driven capabilities, IDT accelerates capability development, enhances operational readiness, and reduces lifecycle costs for the Department of Defense. The company is dedicated to transforming defense systems through innovation, efficiency, and mission-critical results.

Overview:

This position will be responsible for leading employee relations initiatives, programs, and policies to ensure an upbeat, innovative, purpose-driven, and legally compliant workplace environment across the company’s four primary offices in the U. S. The Employee Relations Leader will serve as a trusted advisor to employees and leadership, promoting fair treatment, consistent enforcement of company policies, and fostering a culture of engagement, accountability, and performance. The Employee Relations Leader is a key senior member of the HR Team and reports directly to the Chief Human Resources Officer.

This role is based in Arlington, Virginia at the company’s headquarters. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in employee relations and policy creation, strong knowledge of employment law, and a background in working within government contractor environments. This position provides an opportunity to impact IDT’s work environment in a profound way and to provide for personal growth as IDT continues to expand.

All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active U.S. Security Clearance.

This is a hybrid role with 3-4 days in office required.

Responsibilities Include:

• Develop, implement, and manage employee relations policies and procedures in alignment with company goals and federal regulations, including DoD-specific requirements
• Serve as a trusted, objective point of contact for employee concerns, conflict resolution, and policy interpretations across all company locations
• Lead and document investigations into employee grievances, claims of harassment, discrimination, and other workplace issues, ensuring thorough and impartial handling in compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws
• Provide guidance and counsel to People Leaders and employees on performance management, disciplinary actions, and terminations, ensuring legal compliance and best practices; conduct termination meetings with dignity and empathy
• Monitor and analyze employee relations issues, identify trends and areas for improvement, and recommend proactive solutions to enhance the work culture and minimize potential risks
• Support leadership in promoting a positive and engaged company culture through initiatives, training, and communication strategies that attract, develops, and retains top talent and emphasizes nondiscrimination best practices
• Elevate the employee relations documentation and reporting process, ensuring records are up to date and compliant with company policies and federal regulations
• Invite feedback from employees at all levels across various mediums, and work with management to understand employee perspectives, consider appropriate actions if warranted, and provide timely and thoughtful responses to employee needs
• Collaborate with Talent Development team on training programs on employee relations best practices, team building, conflict resolution, company policies, and compliance-related topics
• Participate in strategic HR initiatives aimed at improving employee engagement, retention, and organizational effectiveness
• Role model and lead others in efforts that proactively influence our culture and empower our employees to work and be their best
• Coordinate legal approaches and responses to ER situations with the companies outside counsel
  
  

Minimum Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field or equivalent full-time professional experience
• 15+ years of broad HR experience including 10+ years in employee relations, with a focus on government contractors, DoD, or similar regulated environments
  
  

Required Skills and Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws, including experience with DoD-specific requirements
• Proven ability to lead and conduct workplace investigations, resolve conflicts, and navigate complex employee relations issues
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and communication skills, with the ability to influence and build relationships at all levels of the organization
• High level of discretion and confidentiality in handling sensitive employee information
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• High degree of emotional intelligence with the ability to build trust, rapport, and coach managers on how to hold people accountable while demonstrating empathy
• Ability to travel occasionally to company offices across the U.S.
• Microsoft Office Suite
• HR Certification in SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP or equivalent
  
  

EEO Statement:

IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  General Business, Human Resources, and Engineering

• Industries

  Human Resources Services and Staffing and Recruiting

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