Human Resources Manager - Employee Relations

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Advance in your career while making a real difference in the community you serve.

Hiring Range: $85,653. - $102,783
Work Days/Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm

The City of Durham's Human Resources Department is an accomplished, diverse, energetic team embracing and inspiring the joy of public service. We aggressively challenge assumptions of what is possible, moving towards a future that is more just, productive and rewarding for all employees. Join us if you're ready to share your talents, learn new skills and build relationships in service to the City of Durham! 

Under the general direction of the Assistant HR Director, the Employee Relations Manager would be responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of employee relations within an organization. The primary focus would be maintaining a positive and productive relationship between the employer and employees. This position is critical for creating a healthy work environment, fostering employee engagement, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and company policies.

The Employee Relations Manager is crucial in promoting a harmonious and productive work environment. This position is responsible for developing and implementing strategies, policies, and programs that foster positive employee relations and ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations. The Employee Relations Manager will also manage a team, handle employee grievances, conduct investigations, manage assigned programs, and provide guidance to management on employee-related matters.

• Develop effective employee relations strategies and policies to maintain a positive work environment and promote employee engagement and satisfaction.
• Provide guidance and support to the HR team and department leadership on employee-related issues, including performance management, disciplinary actions, and conflict resolution.
• Manages employee relations team. Conducts regular 1:1 meetings and provides feedback and support as necessary.
• Recommends and drafts policies.  Drafts functional standard operating procedures.
• Conduct complex investigations into employee complaints, grievances, and concerns, ensuring a fair and impartial process and appropriate resolutions.
• Collaborate with the legal department to ensure adherence to labor laws, regulations, and company policies, minimizing potential legal risks.
• Develop and deliver training programs for managers and employees on employee relations topics, including communication, conflict resolution, and company policies.
• Stay updated with industry best practices and emerging trends in employee relations to improve the organization's practices and policies continuously.
• Manage employee relations metrics and analyze trends to identify areas for improvement and implement appropriate solutions.
• Conduct exit interviews and analyze feedback to identify potential areas for improvement in employee retention and satisfaction.  
• Develops employee relations reporting and ensures databases are current.  
• Actively participates in the design and implementation of the new HR ERP solution.  
• Work closely with Department leadership to address employee relations issues.  
• Manage the secondary employment process.  
• Manages the flexible work program.
• Manage and provide support to the ADA program.        
• Collaborate with the HR leadership team in developing and implementing HR strategies and initiatives that align with the organization's goals.
• Performs all other HR-related duties and projects as assigned.  

• Thorough knowledge of labor laws, regulations, and HR best practices.
• Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills, with the ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships at all levels of the organization.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting investigations and resolving employee issues effectively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
• A solid analytical and data-driven mindset to identify trends and make data-informed decisions.
• High ethical standards and a commitment to fostering a positive work culture.
• Relevant certifications in HR, employee relations, or conflict resolution are a plus.

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Industrial Psychology  or a related field.
• Six (6) years of employee relations or human resources experience.  
• Three (3) years of HR management/supervisory experience.  

• A Masters degree and relevant certifications in HR, employee relations or conflict resolution are a plus.  
• Two years of experience investigating employee relations cases.