Employee Relations Specialist

About the Role

Provides administrative and operational support for employee relations, compliance, and leave administration activities. This position plays a key role in maintaining accurate employee records, coordinating workplace investigations, administering leaves of absence, responding to unemployment claims, and ensuring compliance with company policies and applicable employment laws. Serves as a trusted resource for employees and managers while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions. Must be proficient in English and Spanish.

Responsibilities

• Employee Relations
  • Assist with employee relations investigations, including scheduling interviews, gathering documentation, preparing investigation files, and maintaining confidential records.
  • Document employee conversations, coaching sessions, disciplinary actions, and investigation outcomes.
  • Track employee relations cases and ensure timely follow-up on action items.
  • Coordinate witness interviews and maintain investigation timelines.
  • Assist with preparing written communications related to corrective actions, policy violations, and employee concerns.
  • Support HR leadership in resolving workplace issues while maintaining confidentiality.
• Employee Records Administration
  • Maintain accurate and complete employee personnel files in accordance with company policy and legal requirements.
  • Process employee status changes including promotions, transfers, compensation changes, and terminations.
  • Ensure all required employment documentation is completed and properly filed.
  • Maintain electronic HRIS records and audit files for accuracy and completeness.
  • Respond to requests for employment verification and personnel records.
• Leave Administration
  • Coordinate administration of all employee leaves, including FMLA, NJFLA, paid family leave, military leave, ADA accommodations, personal leaves, and other applicable leave programs.
  • Communicate leave rights and responsibilities to employees and managers.
  • Track leave balances, certifications, return-to-work dates, and required documentation.
  • Coordinate with payroll, benefits, and third-party administrators to ensure accurate leave processing.
  • Monitor compliance with federal, state, and company leave policies.
• Unemployment Claims Administration
  • Respond to unemployment insurance claims and requests for separation information.
  • Gather supporting documentation and coordinate with managers regarding claim details.
• Compliance & HR Administration
  • Assist with policy administration and employee acknowledgments.
  • Support internal and external audits by preparing HR documentation.
  • Maintain confidentiality of sensitive employee information.
  • Assist with HR reporting, metrics, and compliance tracking.
• Additional Responsibilities
  • Provide excellent customer service to employees and managers regarding HR policies and procedures.
  • Assist with onboarding and offboarding activities as needed.
  • Support special HR projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Education
  • Associate's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required.
  • Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Experience
  • 2–4 years of Human Resources experience, preferably in employee relations, leave administration, or HR operations.
  • Experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
  • Experience administering FMLA, ADA, and state leave programs preferred.
• Skills
  • Working knowledge of federal and state employment laws, including FMLA, ADA, FLSA, and applicable state leave laws.
  • Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and HRIS systems.
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with managers and HR team members.
• Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit, stand, and walk throughout manufacturing and office environments.
  • Ability to occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.
  • Ability to travel occasionally between company locations, as needed.

Success Measures

• Employee records are maintained accurately and are audit-ready.
• Investigations are documented thoroughly and completed in a timely manner.
• Leave requests are administered accurately and in compliance with applicable laws.
• Unemployment claims are submitted accurately and within required deadlines.
• Managers and employees receive responsive, professional HR support.
• Confidential information is handled appropriately at all times.