Role Description The Associate Relations Specialist provides timely advice and consultation to support consistent resolution of manager, associate, and labor issues in non-union and unionized settings. This includes providing clear policy interpretation, contract interpretation and administration, performance management guidance, aiding in associate disciplinary actions and investigations where necessary. The Associate Relations Specialist will assist associates with any employment concerns, providing quality customer service by resolving inquiries, questions, and cases in a consistent, accurate and timely manner. Essential Job Functions: - Assist managers with diagnosing and resolving issues through proper questioning and risk assessment. - Educate managers on low/medium level risk issues by providing consultation and coaching regarding policy interpretation, collective bargaining agreement interpretation and administration, associate behavior, and performance management. - Maintain a current working knowledge of legal guidelines and Ministry policies and practices to provide accurate guidance in response to inquiries. - Communicate with and influence managers regarding enforcement and consistent application of company policies & procedures. - Investigate low/medium level risk issues by establishing investigation plans, assembling relevant facts, interviewing witnesses, and determining appropriate courses of action. - Collaborate with multiple stakeholders while maintaining confidentiality of complex and highly sensitive subject matter. - Handle complex and emotionally charged issues with composure by addressing situations objectively and remaining unbiased. - Effectively utilize computer systems to capture facts, research prior issues and resolutions, and pull data for risk assessments and trends. - Initiate the process for reviewing employee concerns pertaining to a leader (Manager). - Partner with the Leave of Absence team to gather pertinent information and ensure compliance for accommodations and leaves of absence. - This document is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Qualifications - 4 year/Bachelors Degree in Human Resources or equivalent accepted. - Field of Study: Human Resources; Business; Industrial Psychology. - Preferred: PHR certification. Requirements - 2 years of Human Resources experience. - Excellent customer service, communications, and interpersonal skills. - Excellent listening skills and ability to probe based on responses provided. - Excellent oral and written communication skills. - Ability to build rapport and communicate challenging information effectively. - Skilled at interviewing employees, witnesses, and supervisors to gather relevant case information. - Strong problem solving and conflict resolution skills. - Ability to maintain highly confidential information. - Regular, dependable attendance and punctuality. - Knowledge of Federal and State Employment Law. Benefits - Competitive pay, incentives, referral bonuses, and 403(b) with employer contributions (when eligible). - Medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage, HSA/FSA options, life insurances, mental health resources, and discounts. - Paid time off, parental and FMLA leave, short- and long-term disability, backup care for children and elders. - Tuition assistance, professional development, and continuing education support. - Benefits may vary based on the market and employment status.