Strategic Employee Relations & Engagement Leader

State of South Carolina; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Vacation & sick leave

Paid holidays

Parental leave

Deferred compensation

Retirement plans

Job summary

State of South Carolina is seeking an experienced Employee Relations and Engagement Manager to lead employee relations, performance management, leave administration, compliance, and engagement initiatives across the agency. The role emphasizes advising leaders, interpreting policy, and fostering a compliant, positive workplace culture.

The position is located onsite in Columbia, SC and requires collaboration with HR, Legal Counsel, and agency leadership to maintain consistent HR policies and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and relevant HR experience or an approved equivalency by State Human Resources based on years of experience.
• Experience advising leaders through complex or sensitive employee matters and interpreting policy.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to build relationships across the organization.
• Experience in leave administration, performance management, and compliance with applicable laws.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert guidance to managers on employee relations matters, investigations, disciplinary actions, and policy interpretation.
• Oversee leave programs including FMLA and other applicable leaves, ensuring compliance and timely processing.
• Manage unemployment claims and represent the agency before tribunal as needed.
• Oversee the Employee Performance Management System in SuccessFactors and monitor EPMS records in SCEIS.
• Develop resources and guidance for managers on performance planning and evaluations.
• Lead engagement initiatives and coordinate HR projects across functional areas.

Skills

Employee relations

Policy interpretation

Investigations

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR or related field

Job description

State of South Carolina is seeking an experienced Employee Relations and Engagement Manager to lead employee relations, performance management, leave administration, compliance, and engagement initiatives across the agency. The role emphasizes advising leaders, interpreting policy, and fostering a compliant, positive workplace culture.

The position is located onsite in Columbia, SC and requires collaboration with HR, Legal Counsel, and agency leadership to maintain consistent HR policies and