Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

Summary:

The Human Resources Office at JPL is responsible for the development, implementation, administration and evaluation of a variety of human resources programs, policies, processes and services. The Employee Relations function exists as one of the COE’s “Centers of Expertise” within the Human Resources Office and serves as a neutral HR authority over complex employee relations matters and workplace investigations with the objective of balancing employee rights and responsibilities, mitigating legal risk, and contributing to a work environment free from harassment and discrimination. To meet these objectives, the Employee Relations Team works with the broader HR Team such as the HR Business Partners and with other internal partners, such as the Ethics Office, Legal Counsel, the Caltech Equity & Title IX Office, and Protective Services, to provide counsel and act as a proactive consultant to the organization.

Responsibilities:

Exciting opportunity to join our Employee Relations team at JPL.  By conducting effective workplace investigations with expertise and compassion, you will contribute to a positive work environment that balances employee rights and responsibilities. In addition to leading investigations, the Senior Employee Relations Partner is responsible for the development and execution of employee relations policies, processes, documents and training that help mitigate business risk and proactively support and maintain a positive employment climate.   

Reporting to the Manager of Employee Relations, this position will have specific responsibilities including (but not limited to):

• Effectively and efficiently conducts Title VII and Title IX workplace investigations with minimal oversight

• Develops and maintains thorough and high-quality case documents for investigations and employee relations work, including, but not limited to investigation notes, summaries, timelines, reports, letters, corrective action documents and warnings

• Effectively prepares and presents investigation findings resolution options to all levels of management and counsel

• Helps to develop and implement new and effective Employee Relations strategies, processes, procedures and templates

• Provides advice and guidance to other HR professionals, employees and managers in the areas of employment law and HR policy

• Prepares and supports effective agency responses (EEO, FEHA, etc.)

• Maintains relevant case information and provides database reports and analyses to HR Business Partners and other members of management

• Independently develops, plans, implements and monitors company-wide and role-specific training in the areas of Preventing Harassment, Employment Law and Policy updates, etc.

• Participates in key policy reviews and recommends actions to help clarify and simplify procedures

• Helps develop and review sound layoff plans and procedures in partnership with HR Business Partners

• Supports and manages complex Employee Relations cases in partnership with other areas of the business (HRBP, Ethics, Security)

• Effectively lead Employee Relations projects and may participate in cross-functional project teams with other members of HR

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Employment Relations, Human Resources, Communications, Business or related field typically with 6 years of minimum related work experience; Masters degree in a similar discipline typically with 4 years of minimum related work experience; Ph.D. degree in a similar discipline typically with 2 years of minimum related work experience.

• In addition, 2(+) years of experience in an HR generalist role and 3(+) years in a strong Employee Relations-focused role, including significant experience independently leading employee relations workplace investigations

• In-depth knowledge and application of Federal and California Labor Laws applicable to all areas of Human Resources

• Highly organized with strong self and project management skills (time, priorities, resources)

• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, reasoning and analytical skills

• Agile learning skills

• Ability to influence and adapt style to consult with all levels of employee and management

• Ability to work effectively and well within the JPL culture (effectively gather and analyze facts, weigh risks and make decisions/recommendations that are right for the organization, the people and our culture)

• Excellent writing and editing skills

• Effective team player

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Ability to work effectively in situations that require sound decision-making

• Establishes trust and maintains confidentiality

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with predominantly exempt client groups

• Experience working with clients in a technology field (engineers, researchers, etc.)

• Familiarity of OFCCP and/or DCAA requirements a plus

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.

For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks

The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.

The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.

In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

EEO is the Law.

EEO is the Law Supplement

Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.