Employee Relations Specialist

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. is America’s premier, 100 % employee‑owned commercial construction company. With offices nationwide, we specialize in a wide range of project types and collaborate with clients and industry partners throughout the project life cycle—from early design through construction and beyond. Our reputation for tackling the toughest building challenges starts with developing high‑performing individuals and teams through award‑winning training programs, a best‑in‑class Total Rewards benefits program, and an inclusive, connected culture.

About the role

We are currently seeking a talented and professional Employee Relations Specialist. Working collaboratively with the Human Resources Business Partner, this position is essential in driving positive employee‑relations strategies. The role leads employee‑relations matters—including employee complaints, investigations, conflict, and performance management—and makes recommendations on solutions. It also develops proactive approaches to mitigate challenges and educates managers on people‑leadership skills.

Core Values

• Genuine. We, Not I.
• All In.
• We Live Our Core Values: We do whatever it takes to deliver on our promises with honesty and integrity.
• We are Employee Owned: We are personally invested in building the things people need in our communities.
• We Feel Like a Family: We value genuine connections and help each other succeed in an inclusive environment.
• We are Builders: We respect the work we do and everyone who helps make it happen safely.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the main point of contact for employee‑relations matters for assigned client groups.
• Identify, investigate, and resolve issues of employee concern or conflict in an appropriate, compliant, and timely manner; scope may include code‑of‑conduct violations, ethics matters, performance, safety, interpersonal conflict, general conduct, and employment‑action concerns.
• Maintain detailed and accurate accounts of concerns or investigations with timely memorialization of notes and supporting documents, using appropriate processes and systems.
• Consult with the HR Business Partner, Labor & Employment Legal, HR resources, and managers to provide HR support and employee‑relations subject‑matter expertise, recommending solutions and actions to resolve employee concerns.
• Provide regular and proactive communication to leaders and other relevant parties related to assigned cases.
• Engage in a proactive, strategic approach to employee relations by identifying trends, recommending root‑cause solutions, and partnering with HR Business Partners to develop and execute action plans.
• Apply expertise supporting managers and employees through ADA accommodations processes.
• Maintain a strong partnership with safety teams to support safety incidents and mandatory referral processes.
• Effectively interpret policies, processes, and procedures, ensuring consistency in application.
• Facilitate field‑based training in support of positive employee practices and relations.
• Utilize a customer‑focused approach to deliver HR solutions through effective partnerships across the HR department and business unit.
• Use influencing skills with managers to reach win/win outcomes that minimize risk to the company.
• Provide recommendations on promotions, development opportunities, and participation in learning programs.
• Conduct employee exit interviews, analyze and capture trends, and make recommendations.
• Produce, review, and analyze a variety of data to support decision‑making, share outcomes, and help influence solutions.
• Assist with general and administrative HR duties as assigned, specifically related to onboarding, data, and reporting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum 2 years experience in HR with a focus on employee and/or labor relations.
• Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred.
• Specific experience with conflict management and leading investigations.
• Demonstrated knowledge of labor, federal, and multi‑state regulations.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills with the ability to build quick relationships across multiple levels.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Detail‑oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Proven ability to solve complex challenges, leveraging solid critical‑thinking skills.
• Ability to navigate sensitive situations and maintain a high degree of confidentiality.
• Ability to travel 25‑50 % of the time throughout the Midwest and nationally as needed.