The SPLC is seeking a Labor & Employee Relations Senior Specialist who is passionate about social justice! 

The Employee Relations Senior Specialist will proactively build relationships with all staff and provide guidance and direction on policies, procedures, the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and employment laws. They will assist with employee relations related matters, including investigations to resolve issues and they will support managers with the performance management process for their direct reports. They will work to nurture a transparent and collaborative workplace and uphold Southern Poverty Law Center’s (Center) values of justice, diversity, equity and inclusion.

Who You Are

Credible & Trusted. Skilled in establishing credibility throughout the organization with management and employees to be an effective listener and problem-solver of people issues. Adheres to strict confidentiality to maintain integrity and trustworthiness.

Problem-Solver. Ability to objectively coach employees and management through issues that may be complex, difficult and emotional. Ability to make recommendations to effectively resolve problems or issues by using judgment that is consistent with policies, regulations, and government law.

Knowledgeable. Working knowledge of multiple human resource disciplines including employee relations, performance management, compensation practices, and federal and state employment laws.

Communicative. Regularly communicates with leadership and staff. Exceptional interpersonal, teamwork and collaboration skills. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Proficient. Demonstrated experience working in HRIS systems, case management software and Microsoft Office products.

Mission, Vision & Culture Alignment. Demonstrated awareness for SPLC's mission and vision; and a commitment to ideals of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion and fostering an anti-racist work culture.

What You'll Do

Provide counsel to both management and employees to resolve employee relations issues.

Conduct prompt and thorough investigations, resolve employee complaints/grievances, and update HR leadership regularly.

Participate in grievance meetings, provide recommendations and draft grievance responses.

Perform exit interviews and provide timely summaries for all investigations.

Periodically visit offices and provide guidance and feedback as needed.

Build and sustain credibility with both employees and management across the organization.

Develop and implement employee recognition, retention and mentoring programs.

Support and participate in recruitment, on-boarding and training.

Make recommendations to effectively resolve complaints by using judgment consistent with Center policies and employment laws.

Uphold ideals of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion and are committed to challenging racism with unwavering determination and an unshakable belief in the power of unity and justice.

Perform other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties in this job classification.

Minimum Qualifications 

We are committed to equitable hiring practices, therefore you must meet the minimum qualifications to be considered for the role.

• Minimum three (3) years’ experience in human resources;
• At least two (2) years’ experience conducting investigations and responding to grievances in a unionized environment;
• HR certification(s) preferred (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP); and
• High School Diploma or GED.

Compensation & Benefits

This is an exempt role, and the minimum starting salary is $71,682 annually. Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Click here to view the benefits available to SPLC staff.

Where & How You'll Work 

This role the following work designations options:

• Local Remote: Will work remotely, but is expected to attend work-related activities that occur at the SPLC offices or in the states in which the SPLC operates.
• Telework: Will work at an SPLC office at least three days per week and may work two days per week from an alternative work location.
• Distant Remote: Will work remotely and are not expected to work in the states in which the SPLC has an office or in an SPLC office. They may be required to attend occasional meetings or activities in the states in which the SPLC has an office or elsewhere.
• This role reports to the Labor & Employee Relations Manager.

Other Special Considerations 

This job is performed under general office conditions and is not subject to any strenuous physical demands or dangerous conditions. Travel is expected up to 20% within assigned region.