Employee Relations Specialist

Cincinnati Goodwill; Cincinnati (OH); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Referral bonus

Job summary

Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries (OVGI) is seeking an Employee Relations Specialist to maintain positive employer–employee relationships, investigate disputes, and ensure policy compliance in a fast-paced nonprofit environment.

You will work onsite with HR and operations across stores and warehouses, conducting investigations, advising managers, and supporting engagement initiatives while upholding confidentiality and applicable laws.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, business administration, labor relations, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• At least 2 years of HR or employee relations experience.
• Knowledge of employment laws and labor regulations.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.

Responsibilities

• Act as the front door of Human Resources for employees and managers, helping investigate and resolve disputes and conflicts.
• Conduct investigations into harassment, discrimination, and policy violations.
• Mediate disputes between employees and managers or other employees.
• Advise supervisors on performance issues, discipline, and termination decisions.
• Ensure compliance with OVGI policies and employment and licensing regulations.
• Document investigations and outcomes in a timely manner.
• Assist in developing and implementing OVGI policies and procedures.
• Support employee engagement initiatives, surveys, and feedback programs.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Conflict resolution

Investigative skills

Confidentiality

Driver’s license

Education

Bachelor’s degree in HR or related field

Job description

Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries (OVGI) is a social enterprise nonprofit organization with a mission to remove barriers, empower individuals, and elevate human potential. This is realized through workforce development, assistance and support of individuals with disabilities, supporting and housing veterans, job coaching, and so much more. Donations of goods sold in our retail stores fuels the ability to support our mission.

At OVGI, you will join a team of over 900 employees deeply dedicated to our mission and service to others. Our team is passionate and powerful and driven to supporting the vision of a community where everyone has the opportunity to make an impact.

Overview

The Employee Relations Specialist focuses on maintaining positive employer–employee relationships, addressing grievances, and ensuring adherence to policies and labor laws, helping to make Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries a great place to work. This position is a key resource for conflict resolution, policy interpretation, and employee engagement. You will work alongside a team of Employee Engagement professionals who support the organization to maximize our people engine.

Essential Duties

• Act as the front door of Human Resources for employees and managers, ensuring they work in concert while helping to investigate and resolve disputes and conflict.
• Conduct investigations into harassment, discrimination, and policy violations.
• Mediate disputes between employees and managers or other employees.
• Advise supervisors and managers on performance issues, discipline, and termination decisions.
• Ensure compliance with OVGI policies and employment and other licensing regulations.
• Ensure investigations and documentation is completed and filed in a timely manner.
• Assist in developing and implementing OVGI policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidential documentation of cases and outcomes.
• Support employee engagement initiatives, surveys, and feedback programs.
• Other duties as may be assigned.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, business administration, labor relations, or related field or equivalent in experience.
• At least 2 years of HR or employee relations experience.
• Knowledge of employment laws and labor regulations.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Strong critical thinking and investigative skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation needed.
• Preferred certifications: SHRM-CP or PHR.

Work Environment

You will work onsite daily in an office setting. Additionally, you will interact with employees in warehouse and retail settings. The ability and willingness to travel to OVGI stores and locations as needed is required.

Internal employees can earn a $300 referral bonus by referring a candidate who is hired and completes 90 days of employment.

EEO Employer/Vet/Disabled