Winston Salem State University Hiring for Employee Relations Consultant at Winston-Salem, NC  Full Time

The employee relations consultant will be responsible for investigating any complaints from employees and applicants and working to resolve these problems sensitively and confidentially. Some of these issues may include complaints of harassment, discrimination, or any other matters that could be classed as high-risk.

The ability to interpret data, pull reports and conduct audits to comply with laws and regulations is essential. Therefore, the consultant will also train employees on EEO and ER matters.

The Office of Human Resources is designed to deliver professional HR services and programs to the Winston-Salem State University campus. The staff, composed of experienced and knowledgeable/credentialed HR professionals, administers human resource programs for SHRA and EHRA non-faculty staff and institutional administrators, temporary and student employees, and faculty (benefits administration) at Winston-Salem State University. In addition, the office is responsible for the institution’s programs in benefits, staffing and talent acquisition, classification and compensation, employee relations, training, and professional development. performance management, leave administration, position management, and unemployment compensation.

Eller Hall – Room 203

Graduation from a four-year college or university and two years of progressively responsible experience analyzing, interpreting, applying, communicating and promoting HR best practices in the context of organizational goals and objectives; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Degrees must be from appropriately accredited institutions

1-3 years of employee relations or HR generalist experience.
Preference will be given to applicants with UNC System HR experience.
HR certification a plus (PHR, SHRM-CP)

Please Note: A criminal background check will be conducted on candidate finalist prior to the offer of employment.

If no applicants apply who meet the required competency and T&E requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing an electronic application. The application must be competed in full detail (including work history) for your qualifications to be considered.

Failure to complete the application completely may result in you not being considered for the vacant position.

Your application for the position will not be complete until you receive an online confirmation number at the end of the process of applying for a position.

Knowledge of employee relations policies, procedures, and best practices. Provides consultation, guidance, and coaching to leaders to address employee behavior and performance concerns; provides guidance and assists with developing and delivering appropriate feedback or corrective/disciplinary actions. Demonstrates strong analytical skills, analyzing information to identify the root causes of problems and proposing realistic and practical solutions based on knowledge and understanding of University and state policies and federal laws. Advises and influences all levels of management around complex employee relations decisions, e.g., performance management, business conduct, terminations, policies, and guidelines.

Provide impartial and confidential conflict resolution services to members of the campus community who are aggrieved or concerned about an issue. Remain independent, neutral, and equitable, and exercise good judgment. Assist inquirers in obtaining and providing relevant information regarding university policies and procedures. Assist inquirers in clarifying issues and generating options for resolution. Facilitate the inquirer’s assessment of the pros and cons of possible options. Engage in informal information gathering better to understand the complaint or issue from all perspectives. Consult with department managers and appropriate individuals to develop cooperative strategies for resolving concerns and complaints. With the inquirer’s permission, consult with all parties to clarify and analyze problems, focus discussions, and establish a mutually-satisfactory process for resolution. When appropriate, facilitate meetings, and use negotiation skills to foster communication among parties in conflict. Encourage flexible administrative practices to maximize the institution’s ability to meet the needs of all members of the campus community equitability.

When appropriate, provide the inquirer with referrals to other resources, such as the Title IX office, Employee Assistance Program, UNC System Office, and Police and Public Safety. Keeps the HR Director and AVC of Human Resources abreast of all complaints and investigations and provides required paperwork for approval. Follow up with inquirers as appropriate to determine the outcome and further need for assistance.

Conducts thorough, fair, and timely investigations into reported policy violations or grievances. Performs discreet, confidential, and effective interviews with the ability to develop trust with team members to allow for honest and transparent dialogue. Maintains detailed, accurate investigation files. Responds to unemployment claims. Develops and maintains various departmental reports. Reviews exit interview responses; recommends action if necessary and communicates responses. Provides training on Employee Relations topics and EEO.