Employee Relations Specialist

Overview

Job Title:

Employee Relations Specialist


Location:

UNG - Gainesville
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Job : 291189

About Us

Located in the fastest-growing region of the state, the University of North Georgia is a multi-campus university with an enrollment of nearly 20,000 students, making it one of the largest institutions in the University System of Georgia. UNG is focused on a mission of educational excellence, leadership development and community engagement opportunities that develop students into leaders for a diverse and global society.

Through a variety of educational pathways that provide access and range from certificates and associate degrees to a professional doctoral program, UNG is responsive to regional education and economic development needs. Federally designated as a senior military college, one of the university s signature leadership programs is its 800-member Corps of Cadets on UNG s Dahlonega Campus.

Job Summary

The University of North Georgia is currently accepting applications for an Employee Relations Specialist on the Gainesville campus. The Employee Relations Specialist will serve as a trusted advisor and resource to employees, managers, and leadership on a wide range of employee relations matters. Responsibilities include providing guidance on university policies and procedures including investigating complaints, performance and progressive discipline processes, alternative dispute resolution and grievance process, ensuring compliance with employment laws and regulations, managing separation and department of labor processes, and assisting with campus wellness and training initiatives.

Maintains accurate and confidential case files on employee matters. Travel between all UNG campuses will be necessary

• Conduct thorough and objective investigations into possible policy violations or employee complaints including, but not limited to, allegations of discrimination, harassment, and misconduct. Coordinate efforts with multiple departments to gather pertinent information and interview necessary personnel in efforts to resolve matters. Prepare an investigative report with findings and escalate matters to the Director of Employee Relations & Engagement as appropriate.
• Provide employees with guidance on university policies, procedures, and available resources. Facilitate a positive work environment by mediating conflicts and fostering collaborative problem-solving through various techniques. Clearly explain and guide employees through grievance procedures and facilitation as necessary.
• Work with supervisors on performance and behavioral management of employees, documentation of incidents, disciplinary action, and Performance Improvement Plans (PIP). Serves as liaison between employees and supervisors in resolving concerns.
• Conduct exit interviews and analyze information obtained. Assist in developing training programs that enhance employee performance, retention, and morale. Research retention strategies and propose plans to address concerns and utilize presented themes and feedback to assist with employee well-being initiatives.
• Assist in both gathering and preparing information and research related to externally initiated investigations, such as EEOC inquiries, as well as matters under review within Legal, Title IX, Audit, or other.
• Manage unemployment hearing/appeal process by coordinating efforts with necessary departments to gather requested information for the Department of Labor; draft memoranda for the DOL Board of Review when contesting unemployment benefits and participate in hearings as a representative of the University.
• Coordinate termination process to include participation in meetings, removal of access, preparing letters of separation and state separation notices, internal notifications and other documents or activities related to the final employment actions.
• Work with Benefits Specialist and other areas as necessary to plan and facilitate employee wellbeing activities and events.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of employment laws and regulations.
• Excellent planning, organizational, dispute resolution, negotiation, analytical, customer service, and project management skills.
• Personal computer and related software skills.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to analyze, interpret, and implement HR policies and procedures.
• Ability to influence and build work relationships among a diverse workforce at all levels.
• Ability to foster a participative management style that utilizes teamwork.
• On Campus presence is essential.

• Bachelor s degree required.
• Three-Five (3-5) years of experience in Human Resources; or a combination of education and Human Resources experience.

• Dispute resolution training is a plus.

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Contact information for three professional references

The University System of Georgia is…