Employee Relations Specialist

Basic Function

Responsible for providing professional level expertise in Employee Relations (ER), ensures compliance through on-going activities and projects using discretionary measures in handling of confidential information. Assists with the interpretation, execution, and communication of employee relations services. Provides assistance in identifying, evaluating, and resolving work performance issues within the Authority to facilitate communication and improve human relations skills and work performance. Conducts ER investigations and resolution of ER complaints. Performs duties in a safe, efficient manner and in compliance with all applicable rules and safety procedures.

Responsibilities and Specific Duties

• Promotes positive work environment through intervention with internal clients.

• Resolves manager and employee dissatisfaction by investigating concerns and complaints; evaluating and offering possible courses of action; providing advice, coaching, guidance, and direction.

• Assists management personnel in administering and interpreting performance improvement plans (PIP), corrective action, and involuntary terminations processes and procedures.

• Investigates and analyzes ER complaint documentation and partners with department management to develop recommendations, e.g. training, coaching, etc.

• Ensures compliance with Performance Improvement Plans (PIP), Conflict Resolution, Corrective Action, Suspension, and Termination Guidelines.

• Conducts exit interviews (upon request).

• Compiles, develops, and analyzes quarterly reports.

• Assists in facilitating conciliation/mediation process for non-represented employees.

• Assists with company-wide diversity programs, and with development and facilitation of ER supervisory training.

• Serves as Workplace Violence Complaint liaison between ER, METRO Police and affected department(s).

• Responds to TPIA requests for production of files.

• Responsible for tracking ER monthly activities and records management of ER files.

• Assists in investigation of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) complaints.

• Handles confidential information with discretion.

• Provides excellent customer service to METRO internal and external customers.

• Applies SMS (Safety Management System) methods and principles in daily routine and supports all aspects of the agency's Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP).

• Promotes safety awareness and follows safety procedures to reduce or eliminate accidents.

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Education Requirement

Bachelor's degree in Business, Human Resources Management, Employment Law, or related degree.

Years & Experience Required

Minimum three (3) years of professional experience in the areas of employment law, compliance, employee relations, and/or other HR generalist areas. Experience with conducting Employee Relations investigations and proposing resolutions.

Knowledge & Skills Required

Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively communicate with all levels of management and employees. Strong problem-solving, conflict-management abilities and excellent customer service skills. Proficient computer skills; Microsoft Office and HRIS Systems. HRCI S/PHR (Senior/Professional in Human Resources),

SHRM S/CP (Senior/Certified Professional) or mediation certification preferred.

Additional Information

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas has a zero tolerance drug and alcohol policy for all employees. All internal and external applicants will be required to undergo drug testing before employment and will be subject to further drug and/or alcohol testing throughout their employment.

Further, employees who perform safety-sensitive functions will submit to drug and/or alcohol testing in accordance to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulatory requirements.

We provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information or disability.