Senior Associate Relations Specialist

Panda Restaurant Group Inc; Rosemead (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 126,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid Work schedule

401K with company match

Yearly bonus opportunity

Full medical, dental, and vision insurance

On-site fitness center

Paid time off starting at 15 days

Job summary

Panda Restaurant Group Inc is seeking a Sr. Associate Relations Analyst to lead investigations on associate complaints. This role will involve collaboration with Field HR and Operations, conducting thorough investigations of sensitive issues while ensuring compliance with federal and state laws.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in HR and at least 5 years of related experience. This position offers a hybrid work schedule and comprehensive benefits, including medical insurance and a 401K with company match.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in HR related to associate relations issues.
• Successful completion of required trainings.
• Valid Food Handler's Card within 30 days of employment required.

Responsibilities

• Lead investigations to resolve associate complaints and concerns.
• Plan and document investigations, maintaining accurate records.
• Provide training and counsel to Operations on associate relations issues.

Skills

HR management

Investigation skills

Knowledge of federal and state laws

Effective communication

Risk assessment

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR or related field

Job description

Summary of Job Description

The Sr. Associate Relations Analyst position is responsible for leading investigations to resolve associate complaints or concerns in collaboration with Field HR. This position conducts and completes the investigation and communicates with Field HR and Operations on the status of the investigation and remedial actions. The Sr. Associate Relations Analyst accurately assesses risk and liability in each case and documents findings in the case management database.

Job Responsibilities

• Responds to and leads the investigation to resolve associate complaints and concerns. Independently investigates highly complex and sensitive complaints. Effectively and efficiently conducts Title VII and Title IX workplace investigations with minimal oversight.
• Conducts and completes the investigation thoroughly and in a timely manner. Effectively communicates and collaborates with Field HR, Legal and Operations on status of investigation and remedial actions.
• Effectively plans and documents the investigation. Maintains accurate records in compliance with company procedures and recommends actions to be taken. Develops and maintains thorough and high‑quality case documents for investigations and employee relations work, including, but not limited to: investigation notes, summaries, timelines, reports, letters, corrective action documents and warnings. Effectively prepares and presents investigation findings resolution options to all levels of management. Documents findings into the case management database.
• Accurately assesses risk and liability in each case as a Subject Matter Expert. Resolves associate relations concerns following federal and state laws and company policies through effective interaction with associates, Operations leaders and Field HR. Ensures consistency with company policies.
• Develops and implements positive workforce practices and strategies in collaboration with Field HR and Operations. Leads periodic and quarterly AR trends review with Operations Leaders for assigned regions. Provides training, advice, and counsel to Operations on associate relations issues.
• Leads preparation of formal written responses and supporting documentation related to any associate relations charges (e.g., discrimination, harassment, etc.) as required from within the company and from external agencies. Prepares for EEO hearings and mediations and assists in negotiating settlements.
• Researches root causes when reviewing trends within region. Shares high‑level overview of other areas to help identify areas with more cases and identify trends. Runs and analyzes periodic reports for all AR cases and compares data to previous periods to share with AR team and/or FHR partners.
• Leads special projects, training or other assignments as required. May mentor AR team members.

How we reward you

• Hybrid Work schedule
• 401K with company match
• Yearly bonus opportunity*
• Full medical, dental, and vision insurance *
• On‑site fitness center, biometric screen, and flu shot clinic
• Discounts at Panda restaurants, theme parks, and gym memberships
• Paid time off starting at 15 days with 7 federal holidays*
• Continuous education assistance and scholarships*
• Income protection including Disability, Life and AD&D insurance*
• Bereavement leave*

*Benefits available for eligible permanent full time associates

Qualifications - External

Your background and experience

• Bachelor's degree in HR or related field required
• 5+ years of experience in HR related to associate relations issues, preferably in a retail/hospitality operations environment
• Successful completion of initial and periodically required trainings.
• Obtaining a valid Food Handler's Card within 30 days of employment is a requirement of this position.

Pay Range

P3: $90,000 - $126,500 / Annual

* Within the range, individual pay is determined using various factors, including work location and experience.

Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal opportunity, and does not discriminate on the basis of any characteristic protected by law, including but not limited to sex/gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation and related conditions), gender expression, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, and veteran status. Additionally, Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. complies with all federal, state, and local laws regarding requests for workplace accommodation. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability. Applicants are entitled to reasonable accommodations, absent undue hardship, to effectively participate in the application and hiring process, for example, sign language interpreters. If you believe you require an accommodation for the application or interview process or for the position for which you are applying, please reach out to [e-mail].