Employee Relations Specialist

About the role

The Frick Collection is an internationally recognized museum and research center renowned for its Old Master paintings and outstanding European sculpture and decorative arts. Founded on the bequest of Henry Clay Frick, the institution’s holdings span Renaissance to nineteenth-century masterworks and have more than doubled since the museum’s 1935 opening. The Frick Art Research Library, established in 1920, is one of the world’s leading art history research centers. After a comprehensive renovation, the museum and library reopened to the public in April 2025.

Workplace Culture

The Frick promotes an open and welcoming workplace culture that supports work-life balance. We offer competitive salaries and exceptional benefits in a beautiful setting, alongside the opportunity to engage with world-class art. The Frick is committed to equal opportunity for all employees and applicants, regardless of personal characteristics protected by law.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary HR resource for employee relations matters, including workplace concerns, conflict resolution, policy interpretation, and manager consultation.
• Conduct impartial investigations into employee complaints, misconduct allegations, and policy violations, and prepare related documentation and recommendations.
• Coach managers on employee performance, attendance, conduct, corrective action, and performance improvement plans.
• Partner with leaders to address workplace issues proactively and promote a positive, respectful, and inclusive work environment.
• Interpret and apply HR policies, employment laws, and regulatory requirements; recommend policy updates and best practices.
• Develop and deliver employee engagement, training, and professional development initiatives that support organizational culture and retention.
• Prepare HR metrics, reports, and analysis related to employee relations trends, workforce planning, and organizational effectiveness.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Development, or related field.
• 5–7 years of progressive HR experience.
• Minimum 3 years of employee relations experience.
• Demonstrated experience conducting workplace investigations.
• Strong knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices.
• Excellent interpersonal, conflict-resolution, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage highly sensitive and confidential information.
• Proficiency with HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred

• Experience within a museum, cultural institution, higher education, or nonprofit environment.
• Bilingual skills: English/Spanish helpful.
• SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification.

Physical Requirements

The physical requirements of this role are comparable to most office roles. Essential functions include in-person interaction with colleagues, use of common office tools and machines, traversing the office and building (including multiple levels), and carrying materials up to 20 pounds.

Benefits

• Paid Holidays: 14 paid holidays including federal holidays, Juneteenth, Election Day, and four floating holidays (two per half-year).
• Sick and Vacation Time: Up to 12 sick days and 15 vacation days in the first year; up to 12 sick days and 25 vacation days annually thereafter.
• Paid Family Leave: Bereavement and family leave in addition to federal family leave laws.
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Employer-sponsored plans with employee contributions based on income and coverage type.
• Short and Long Term Disability and Life Insurance: Frick covers the entire cost; life insurance up to three times annual salary.
• Retirement: Participation in a 403(b) tax-deferred savings plan and a defined benefit pension plan; retiree health benefits available.
• Wellness Programs: Employee Assistance Plan, Citi Bike membership discount, bike helmet discount.
• Additional Benefits: Discounted transit benefit, flexible spending accounts for health, dependent care, and commuting costs.

Pay

Full-time exempt role with a starting annual salary of $90,000–$100,000, commensurate with skills and experience.