Employee Relations Specialist

Employee Relations Specialist

This is a full-time, on-site position working at our Ladysmith, Park Falls, & Medford, WI manufacturing sites. You must live within commuting distance to Ladysmith, Park Falls, & Medford, WI. 

Office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday.

As an Employee Relations Specialist, you will play a key role in fostering a positive and productive workplace environment. In this role, you’ll address employee concerns, develop effective action plans, and provide thoughtful guidance and intervention when needed.

You will partner closely with people leaders across the organization to proactively identify trends and opportunities to prevent employee relations challenges before they arise. Through coaching and consultation, you will support leaders at all levels to effectively manage team member performance and conduct while strengthening their leadership capabilities.

Staying closely connected to organizational and operational changes, you’ll proactively assess potential employee relations risks and help implement strategies that support a healthy, engaged workforce.

At its core, this role is centered on enhancing team member experience and retention. You’ll help build strong, respectful relationships across teams, promoting trust, accountability, and collaboration between leaders and their team members.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Act as a consultant for managers on issues related to team member performance, conflict resolution, and problem solving related to the management of team members.  
• Follow fair and objective processes appropriate for team member concerns, including fact-finding and ensuring adherence to employee relations policies and practices. Conduct investigations per Pella’s processes.
• Provide support, thought partnership, guidance, and coaching to all levels of people leaders.
• Follow expected documentation techniques and ensure maintenance of accurate, confidential records regarding all reported matters and fact-finding documentation.
• Maintain the highest level of integrity and confidentiality when managing employee relations issues and managing reported matters.
• Stay attuned to organizational and operational changes across the company to identify potential employee relations risks and raise awareness with manager.
• Provide guidance and assistance with the development and delivery of appropriate performance feedback or action plans including corrective/disciplinary actions and performance improvement plans.
• Respond to and represent Pella Corporation as needed for unemployment claims.

• Based on the assigned work location, may also perform additional on-site HR responsibilities.

• Review and process religious accommodation requests. 
• Provide guidance to local leadership on workplace threats and emergencies (violence, reasonable suspicion testing, conflicts, substance abuse, etc.).  

Required Competencies:

• The ideal candidate must have the ability to:
  •  Read and interpret documents such as policies, safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals. 
  • Write performance or disciplinary documents and correspondence. 
  • Navigate ER issues, consult with appropriate parties, and arrive at decisions or resolutions that are legal, fair, and appropriate for Pella’s culture. 
  • Solve practical problems independently, without close supervision.
  • Determine appropriate resolution in dealing with employee concerns and questions and set appropriate boundaries. 

  • Demonstrate strong critical thinking, effective problem-solving abilities, and sound investigative judgment.

     

     

Education & Experience: 

• Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) in Human Resources, Business or related field and at least one year of related experience; or at least 3 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. 
• Must have demonstrated knowledge of employment law and HR practices. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and comfortable with HRIS systems.

Certification:

PHR or SHRM-CP certification preferred but not needed.

At Pella, we’re committed to supporting your well-being—both professionally and personally. We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:

• Competitive salary with an annual bonus opportunity.
• Comprehensive health coverage – medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support and resources.
• Company-paid life insurance.
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• 401(k) with company match to help you plan for the future.
• Paid holidays and generous paid time off.
• Tuition reimbursement to support your continued education.
• Professional development opportunities to help you grow your career.