Human Resources Specialist

General Job Information

Job Summary:

This position is located in the District of Columbia Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS), Office of Human Resources-Employee Relations. The mission of DYRS is to improve public safety and give court-involved youth the opportunity to become more productive citizens by building on the strengths of youths and their families in the least restrictive, most homelike environment consistent with public safety. Employee Relations is responsible for managing and directing all activities related to Performance Management, Leave Management, Employee/Labor Relations, and Engagement.

Incumbent in this position will be responsible for coordinating, implementing, and administering oversight to the dedicated program areas to provide effective, efficient, and expedient solutions and resolutions to assist employees and managers. Incumbent maintains a robust employee relations program to effectively provide advice to management and employees regarding performance management, discipline, appeals, grievances, employee conduct, leave management, engagement, and other employee relations processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:

The Human Resources Specialist serves as lead in the development of human resources policies and procedures; prepares and maintains agency policies and procedures manual(s) and standard operating procedures (SOP's). Monitors and evaluates routine operations and special activities for efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance with policies and procedures, recommending changes for improvement. Analyzes employment trends, agency attrition, turnover, and affirmative action needs, as well as agency staff, to provide proactive recommendations for improvements to counteract employee turnover. Advises managers and supervisors on matters related to the interpretation of collective bargaining agreements and grievances. Works collaboratively with appropriate personnel in the development of training materials concerning employee relations policies, practices, and procedures. Assists in conducting training sessions for employees, managers, and supervisors. Reviews and drafts disciplinary actions to ensure adherence to correct regulations and procedures. Researches and analyzes facts to arrive at valid conclusions and prepares recommendations from findings. Provides information to employees on how to access the District's Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).

Investigates and resolves cases of alleged unfair behavior and treatment. Identifies and takes the necessary action to eliminate institutional barriers when investigating and resolving cases of alleged discrimination. Guides managers/employees in the Performance Management cycle for the performance plan development, mid-year review, and annual performance evaluation process. Provides on-going coaching for managers/employees throughout the annual performance management cycle. Initiates and implements employee engagement ideas, programs, and policies (e.g., focus groups, recognition programs, incentive programs, employee surveys, etc.). Works collaboratively with the agency's Americans Disability Act (ADA) Coordinator to ensure adherence to ADA regulations. Provides counsel to managers and employees on Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Paid Family Leave (PFL), Fit-For-Duty and Return to work notices.

Qualifications and Education

Individual must possess at least one-year (1) of specialized experience that is equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Specialized Experience is experience that equips the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled.

Licenses and Certifications:

None

Work Conditions and Environment:

The work is performed in an office setting.

Other Significant Facts:

Tour of Duty: Monday- Friday; 8:15AM- 4:45PM (Times are flexible pending department needs and supervisory approval)

Pay Plan, Series and Grade: CS-0201-13

Promotion Potential: No Known Promotion Potential

Collective Bargaining Unit (Non-Union): This position is not a part of a Collective Bargaining Unit

Position Designation: The incumbent in this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel regulations, Suitability. This position has been designated as a security-sensitive position.

Residency Preference: When claiming residency preference, you are required, and must agree in writing, to maintain bona fide District residency for a period of seven (7) consecutive years from the effective date of employment. You will be required to present a documents (proofs) to show District residency and failure to maintain bona-fide District residency for the seven-year (7-year) period will result in forfeiture of employment.

EEO Statement: The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.