Employee Relations Specialist

Cottingham & Butler; Dubuque (IA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flex Spending or HSA

401(k) with company match

Profit-Sharing/ Defined Contribution

PTO/ Paid Holidays

Company-paid ST and LT Disability

Maternity Leave/ Parental Leave

Job summary

Cottingham & Butler is seeking a proactive Employee Relations Specialist in Dubuque, Iowa, to support our Human Resources - Operations team. This role involves managing employee relations, handling HRIS systems, and driving essential HR processes required for organizational success.

The ideal candidate will provide hands-on support, conduct investigations, and coach supervisors on performance matters. The position comes with comprehensive benefits starting from day one, including 401(k) matching, PTO, and more.

Qualifications

• Proactive and detail-oriented with a focus on employee relations.
• Experience with HRIS systems and data management.
• Ability to coach and train others in workplace policies.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the first point of contact for employee concerns.
• Conduct initial investigations and escalate issues as needed.
• Train HR leaders on system tools and reporting.

Skills

Employee relations

HRIS management

Performance coaching

Data management

Collaboration

Job description

We’re looking for a proactive, detail‑oriented Employee Relations Specialist who’s ready to jump in and make an impact. In this role, you’ll support our Human Resources - Operations team by handling employee relations, managing HRIS systems, and driving the core HR processes that keep our organization running smoothly.

Essential Functions:

Employee Relations

• Serve as the first point of contact for employee concerns, conducting initial investigations and escalating when appropriate.
• Coach supervisors on performance and policy matters while supporting training on respectful workplace practices.
• Identify trends, recommend proactive solutions, and maintain accurate, confidential documentation.

HRIS & Data Management

• Act as the HRIS expert for configuration, reporting, and data integrity.
• Lead audits, reconciliations, and compliance‑driven reporting.
• Troubleshoot issues and partner with IT and vendors on improvements.
• Train HR and operational leaders on system tools and reporting.

Operational HR Support

• Lead and support HR projects that improve efficiency and experience.
• Provide hands‑on support during peak seasons and special events.

If you love variety, collaboration, and being the person people rely on to get things right, apply and bring your strengths to our HR Generalist role!

Benefits

• Most Benefits start Day 1
• Flex Spending or HSA
• 401(k) with company match
• Profit-Sharing/ Defined Contribution (1-year waiting period)
• PTO/ Paid Holidays
• Company-paid ST and LT Disability
• Maternity Leave/ Parental Leave