Human Resources Specialist- Employee Relations

GOODWILL CENTRAL COAST; Salinas (CA); On-site; USD 30,775 - 41,328; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company sponsored medical, dental, vision and life insurance

403(b) with company match

13 days paid vacation

40 hours sick pay

Job summary

GOODWILL CENTRAL COAST is seeking a Human Resources Specialist – Employee Relations in Salinas, CA. This role focuses on fostering a respectful workplace, conducting investigations, and ensuring compliance with employment laws.

The ideal candidate will have 3-5 years of HR experience, strong communication skills, and be bilingual in English and Spanish. Candidates will assist with employee investigations and provide guidance on HR policies. A comprehensive benefits package is included.

Qualifications

• Three to five years of Human Resources experience, preferably in employee relations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to handle highly confidential information with professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Assist with employee relations investigations and case management.
• Provide guidance to supervisors on HR policies.
• Support organizational projects that strengthen workplace culture.

Skills

Human Resources experience

Bilingual in English and Spanish

Knowledge of California employment laws

Strong communication skills

Exceptional organization and attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Tools

HRIS Systems

Paycom

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Salinas Headquarters - Salinas, CA 93905

Salary Range: $22.34 - $30.00 Hourly

Human Resources Specialist – Employee Relations

Make a Difference. Build Positive Workplace Relationships.

Goodwill Central Coast is seeking an experienced Human Resources Specialist – Employee Relations to join our Human Resources team. If you're passionate about fostering a respectful workplace, conducting fair and objective investigations, ensuring compliance with employment laws, and helping leaders navigate complex employee relations issues, we'd love to hear from you.

In this role, you'll partner closely with our Employee Relations Manager to support managers across our organization, helping ensure consistent application of company policies while promoting a positive employee experience.

What You'll Do

• Assist with employee relations investigations and case management.
• Review counseling statements for consistency with company policy and employment law.
• Maintain accurate employee relations documentation and case files.
• Prepare investigation summaries, correspondence, and reports.
• Monitor case timelines and follow up to ensure timely resolution.
• Provide guidance to supervisors on HR policies and best practices.
• Collaborate on policy improvements and compliance initiatives.
• Support organizational projects that strengthen workplace culture and employee engagement.

What We're Looking For

• Three to five years of Human Resources experience, preferably in employee relations, investigations, or compliance.
• Working knowledge of California employment laws, including progressive discipline practices.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional organization, attention to detail, and sound judgment.
• Ability to handle highly confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish (required).
• Experience with employee relations or case management software is a plus.

Why Goodwill Central Coast?

At Goodwill Central Coast, our mission goes beyond retail—we transform lives through the power of work. As part of our Human Resources team, you'll play a key role in supporting employees, strengthening leaders, and helping create a respectful, inclusive, and legally compliant workplace where people can thrive.

If you're looking for a meaningful HR career where your work truly makes a difference, we'd love to meet you.

Apply today and help build a stronger workplace for everyone.

Benefits

• $30.00 Per hour.
• Company sponsored medical, dental, vision and life insurance.
• 403(b) with company match.
• 13 days paid vacation.
• 40 hours sick pay.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience preferred.
• 3 years of experience in Human Resources preferred.
• Bilingual, Spanish-speaking preferred.
• Knowledgeable of state and federal employment laws, including applicable wage and hour, and employment legal requirements.
• Experience within a large, complex organization is preferred.
• Proficient in MS Applications, HRIS Systems, Paycom, Risk Management Systems.
• Willingness to work on-site and to commute to different locations if needed.