Employee Relations Manager

SDI International; Holly Springs (NC); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading human resources firm is seeking a Senior Employee Relations Specialist to manage diverse employee relations cases. This role requires expertise in conducting investigations, advising leadership, and ensuring compliance with employment laws. A successful candidate will have 5-7 years of experience in employee relations, particularly in high-volume environments, and will be adept in conflict resolution. The position is onsite in Holly Springs, NC, offering opportunities for professional growth in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of HR experience in employee relations with a strong focus on investigations.
• In-depth knowledge of employment laws and HR compliance requirements.
• Ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Conduct confidential investigations into employee misconduct.
• Manage compliance hotline cases through resolution.
• Educate leaders on corrective actions and performance management.

Skills

Employee relations expertise

Conflict resolution

Investigative skills

Strong communication

HR compliance knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Organizational Psychology, or related field

Tools

HRIS

Case management systems

Job description

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Employee Relations Specialist to manage moderately complex employee relations (ER) cases. This role involves conducting investigations, advising leadership, and ensuring compliance with employment laws and company policies. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in ER, labor relations, and conflict resolution, and will thrive in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

Employee & Labor Relations

• Conduct confidential investigations into misconduct, including harassment, discrimination, and policy violations.
• Manage Compliance Hotline/Speak Up cases through resolution and document outcomes.
• Facilitate terminations, including drafting letters, conducting meetings, and maintaining documentation.
• Provide guidance to managers on employee relations best practices and fair treatment.
• Influence and coach leaders through sensitive employee situations.
• Partner with legal counsel and HR Business Partners to mitigate risk and ensure compliance.
• Interpret and apply company policies and collective bargaining agreements.
• Support unionized environments by resolving grievances and participating in arbitrations.
• Build positive relationships with employees, union representatives, and Works Councils.

Medical Accommodations

• Manage the medical accommodation process in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
• Facilitate interactive discussions with HR and medical experts.
• Advocate for employees while balancing business needs and values.
• Document accommodation decisions in the appropriate systems.

Corrective Action & Performance Management

• Educate leaders on corrective action processes and SMART objectives.
• Advise on performance issues and support development of performance improvement plans.
• Promote a culture of high performance and engagement.
• Maintain accurate records of employee actions and outcomes.

Training & Program Development

• Collaborate with the Learning department to develop and deliver ER‑related training.
• Participate in the creation and implementation of ER programs and initiatives.

Special Projects & Administration

• Lead or contribute to special HR/ER projects, ensuring timely and effective delivery.
• Maintain accurate case management documentation for compliance and reporting.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

• Ability to make decisions which have a significant impact on the department’s credibility, operations and services.
• 10% overnight travel may be required.
• Fast‑paced environment with frequent interruptions.
• Some overtime hours may be required.

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Organizational Psychology, Business, or related field.
• 5‑7 years of HR experience in employee relations, with a strong focus on investigations.
• Experience working in a fast paced; high‑volume environment (required).
• In‑depth knowledge of employment laws and HR compliance requirements.
• Experience using HRIS and case management systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of discretion and ability to handle confidential information.
• Ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders.
• Must be local to Holly Springs, NC and able to work onsite 4 days/week.

Preferred / Nice to Have Qualifications

• Experience in unionized environments and labor relations.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish - strong preference.
• Experience supporting multiple locations and working in a global, matrixed organization.