HR Employee Relations Specialist

Texas A&M University System; Corpus Christi (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi is seeking an HR Employee Relations Specialist to serve as a strategic HR partner across the university. The role involves conducting investigations, advising supervisors and employees on employee relations matters, and supporting performance management and corrective action processes.

The position requires collaborative work with department leaders to ensure consistent policy application, improve employee relations practices, and guide the workforce through

Responsibilities

• Conduct prompt, thorough investigations involving employee relations issues and workplace misconduct.
• Advise supervisors and employees on employee relations matters and policy interpretation.
• Support performance management initiatives and corrective action processes, including discipline when appropriate.

Job description

Job Title: HR Employee Relations Specialist

Agency: Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

Department: Human Resources

Proposed Minimum Salary: Commensurate

Job Location: Corpus Christi, Texas

Job Type: Staff

TAMU-CC is a dynamic university designated as both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI) with approximately 11,000 students from 47 states and 54 foreign nations. We employ over 1,400 full-time and 2,000 part-time Islanders (including students/GAs). The University attracts highly talented faculty and staff and offers an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including doctoral programs. As a member of the Texas A&M University System, TAMU-CC benefits from a range of resources, increased visibility and influence, and opportunities to collaborate in mutually beneficial ways with peers across member institutions and associated agencies.

TAMU-CC's beautiful campus is located on a 240-acre island on Corpus Christi Bay and was ranked #1 College by the Sea by Best College Reviews. Our natural setting is enhanced by its modern, attractive, and state-of-the-art classroom buildings and support facilities.

PURPOSE

The Employee Relations Specialist serves as a strategic Human Resources partner responsible for fostering a positive, respectful, and productive workplace environment across the University. This position conducts workplace investigations, advises supervisors and employees on employee relations matters, supports performance management initiatives, and assists with the administration of corrective action processes.

The Employee Relations Specialist works closely with supervisors and administrators to resolve workplace concerns, ensure consistent application of University policies, improve employee performance, and support effective employee relations practices. The position provides guidance throughout the employee lifecycle, including performance improvement planning, disciplinary action, workplace conflict resolution, and separation processes.

DESCRIPTION

Functional Area 1: Employee Relations & Workplace Investigations

Percent Effort: 50%

• Conduct prompt, thorough, and impartial investigations involving employee non-civil rights complaints, workplace misconduct, policy violations, employee conflicts, retaliation concerns, attendance issues, and other workplace matters.


• Gather and analyze evidence through interviews, document reviews, and other fact-finding activities.


• Develop investigation plans, establish timelines, and maintain communication with appropriate stakeholders throughout the investigative process.


• Prepare clear, concise, and well-documented investigative reports, finding summaries, and recommendations.


• Assess facts, credibility, and available evidence to support informed and defensible employment decisions.


• Maintain confidential investigative files, records, and documentation in accordance with University procedures.


• Provide regular updates to HR leadership regarding case status, trends, and outcomes.


• Identify patterns and trends that may impact workplace culture, employee engagement, or organizational effectiveness and recommend corrective actions.

Functional Area 2: Performance Management & Corrective Action

Percent Effort: 30%

• Consult with supervisors and department leaders regarding employee performance, conduct, attendance, and workplace behavior concerns.


• Assist managers in the development, implementation, and monitoring of Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs).


• Provide guidance regarding progressive discipline processes, including verbal counseling, written warnings, final warnings, and corrective action plans.


• Review disciplinary documentation to ensure consistency, fairness, and alignment with University policies and employment practices.


• Provide guidance and interpretation regarding applicable HR policies, procedures, and employment-related requirements.


• Participate in performance discussions, disciplinary meetings, and employee counseling sessions as appropriate.


• Assist management and HR leadership in determining appropriate corrective actions based on investigative findings and performance concerns.


• Coordinate disciplinary actions, including involuntary terminations, by reviewing supporting documentation, ensuring compliance with University policies and applicable regulations, and facilitating required approval processes in consultation with the Office of General Counsel.


• Support workforce accountability initiatives while promoting employee development and success.

Functional Area 3: Employee Relations Consulting & HR Support

Percent Effort: 20%

• Serve as a resource to supervisors and administrators by providing guidance, consultation, and recommendations regarding employee relations matters, workplace concerns, and policy interpretation.


• Research and interpret HR policies, procedures, regulations, and employment laws, and provide recommendations on best practices to support consistent and compliant decision-making.