Senior HR Specialist Employee Relations

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Human Resource Specialist who specializes in Employee Relations to join our Human Resources team. This is a 6 month contract role and this person will need to report to the office based in Atlanta. This role plays a pivotal part in shaping a fair and constructive workplace by providing expert advice leading investigations and supporting leadership and staff across various HR-related matters. The ideal candidate combines deep knowledge of employment law with excellent interpersonal and analytical capabilities ensuring integrity and consistency in all employee relations activities.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

Case Handling & Investigations

• Independently manage investigations into allegations involving misconduct harassment discrimination and policy violations.
• Oversee the lifecycle of employee relations cases ensuring accurate documentation and timely resolution.
• Prepare detailed reports summarizing findings and recommended corrective actions based on organizational policy and legal standards.
• Coordinate with internal legal teams and compliance offices when appropriate.

HR Advisory & Conflict Resolution

• Serve as a trusted consultant to supervisors and team leads on issues such as employee behavior corrective actions and conflict resolution.
• Guide leaders through complex disciplinary and grievance processes including drafting necessary documentation.
• Provide support on performance-related concerns to foster constructive dialogue and fair outcomes.

Learning & Development

• Design and lead training workshops for managers and staff on topics such as workplace expectations managing performance and fostering respectful communication.
• Contribute to the creation of digital HR content including FAQs templates and guidelines that support employee relations best practices.

Policy & Legal Compliance

• Interpret and apply local state and federal labor regulations as well as internal policies.
• Participate in policy updates and audits to ensure compliance and relevance in an evolving workplace environment.
• Identify trends in employee concerns and recommend proactive improvements to minimize risk.

Claims & Hearings

• Represent the organization in unemployment-related hearings and prepare relevant documentation.
• Support compliance with external agencies during employment-related investigations or reviews.

Strategic Projects & Analysis

• Lead or assist on initiatives aimed at improving workplace culture and employee experience.
• Monitor ER metrics analyze trends and present actionable insights to HR leadership.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Human Resources Business Psychology Public Administration or a related area.
• At least 3 years of progressive HR experience with a concentration in employee relations or workplace investigations.
• Strong investigative skills and experience handling sensitive matters with discretion.
• Ability to build trust and communicate effectively across all organizational levels.
• Strong writing facilitation and presentation capabilities.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Self-directed organized and capable of managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in higher education public sector or unionized workplaces.
• Familiarity with University System of Georgia or Georgia State University policies.
• HR certifications such as SHRM-CP SHRM-SCP PHR or SPHR.
• Experience conducting or supporting unemployment hearings or formal grievance processes.
• Proven ability to implement HR policy and deliver engaging training at scale.
• Knowledge of employee engagement and organizational change strategies.

Core Competencies

• Confidentiality & Ethics: Maintains integrity and discretion in all employee matters.
• Consultative Approach: Acts as a resourceful and supportive partner to leadership and staff.
• Results-Oriented: Delivers high-quality outcomes with consistency and accountability.
• Team Collaboration: Values diverse perspectives and fosters an inclusive working environment.