Sr. Employee Relations Partner

Quest Diagnostics; Irving (TX); Remote; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Employee Relations Partner to enhance employee engagement and retention initiatives. This largely remote role requires occasional site investigations and offers a dynamic environment for those with a strong HR background. You will partner with management to resolve complex employee relations issues, administer performance management processes, and ensure compliance with employment laws. This position is perfect for someone with a passion for fostering a positive workplace culture and mentoring others in the field of HR.

Qualifications

• 7-10 years in HR Generalist or Employee Relations roles.
• At least 2 years of leadership experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Partner with employees to resolve complex work-related issues.
• Conduct in-depth investigations of allegations related to performance.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Verbal Communication

Written Communication

Problem-Solving

Organizational Skills

Critical Thinking

Attention to Detail

Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

HRIS

Reporting Tools

Case Management Tools

Job description

Overview

The Senior Employee Relations Partner serves as a key team member of the Employee Relations Center of Excellence. The Senior Employee Relations Partner supports the company by ensuring that managers are well equipped to implement people solutions that will resolve employee relations matters, build a positive employee relations climate, and enable compliance with relevant employment legislation. The Senior Employee Relations Partner plays a vital role in overseeing employee engagement and retention initiatives for the company.

The Senior Employee Relations Partner works in both a leadership and team capacity to support multiple sites and lines of businesses across a specific geographic region within Quest Diagnostics and its subsidiaries. The Senior Employee Relations Partner serves as a mentor, providing guidance and support to Employee Relations Partners in the Center of Excellence. The Employee Relations team collaborates with all HR Centers of Excellence, Business Leadership, Management, and Legal on issues related to employee relations, aiming to provide an optimal work environment and develop HR policies and procedures.

This is a largely remote role but requires the Senior Employee Relations Partner to conduct occasional investigations at Quest sites within range.

Responsibilities

1. Partner with employees and managers to resolve complex, non-routine work-related issues through advice and recommendations. Identify negative trends for proactive solutions.
2. Deliver high-quality decisions and consistent counseling to managers and employees. Analyze employee matters and recommend appropriate employment actions to foster productivity, performance, and compliance.

Performance Management Guidance and Support

1. Administer coaching and disciplinary processes, including performance management and improvement plans.
2. Support management in preparing detailed disciplinary documentation, ensuring legal soundness and risk mitigation.
3. Participate in disciplinary or termination proceedings as needed.
4. Develop knowledge of assigned sites and lines of business, providing feedback and recommendations to management on employee climate trends.
5. Coordinate and participate in Reduction in Force activities and the company's Appeal and Peer Review processes.

Company Internal Investigation Process

1. Conduct in-depth investigations of allegations related to performance, misconduct, or policy violations. Document findings and create action plans.
2. Advise HR Service Center teams on routine allegations requiring investigation.

Legal Support

1. Serve as a primary contact on employment law compliance and risk mitigation.
2. Monitor legislative changes and recommend policy updates.
3. Support employment litigation processes, including EEOC statements, mediations, and audits.

Policy Review and Development

1. Provide guidance on policy, process, and tool development for the Employee Relations Center and HR teams.

Employee Engagement and Retention

1. Monitor and report on retention and turnover metrics.
2. Use engagement tools like surveys and focus groups to address employee relations issues proactively.

Leadership / Mentorship of Employee Relations Consultants

1. Provide direction, share expertise, and mentor team members.

Relations Center of Excellence

1. Train Employee Relations staff on policy changes and approaches.

Qualifications

Required Work Experience: 7-10 years in HR Generalist or Employee Relations roles in similar organizations.

Preferred Work Experience: At least 2 years of leadership experience through mentorship, supervision, or project management.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
• Ability to work in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.

Knowledge:

• Understanding of employment law and regulations.
• Familiarity with HR systems such as HRIS, reporting, and case management tools.

Skills:

• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving, organizational, and prioritization skills.
• Sensitivity, tact, and professionalism in dealing with people.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to interact effectively with diverse populations at all organizational levels.
• Ability to maintain composure under stress.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

Education: Bachelor's Degree required.

EEO Statement: Equal Opportunity Employer respecting all protected statuses.