Employee Relations Specialist

Employee Relations Specialist Location: Princeton, NJ, United States Date Posted: Sep 24, 2025 Description Community Options, Inc. is a national non-profit agency providing services to individuals with disabilities in 12 states. We are actively seeking an Employee Relations Specialist to join our team in Princeton, NJ. The Senior Employee Relations Specialist is responsible for overseeing complex employee relations (ER) investigations, providing expert advice to HR professionals and managers, and ensuring that all employee-related concerns are managed with consistency, thoroughness, and in full compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. In addition to investigations, this role supports the development of ER programs, assists with policy creation, and ensures adherence to HR compliance standards. The Senior ER Specialist also guides HR Generalists (HRGs) in best practices, playing a critical role in fostering a positive, inclusive, and compliant workplace environment, while mitigating risks related to employee relations and HR compliance matters. Starting Salary: $70,000 Work Hours: 10am - 6pm Responsibilities Lead and manage complex investigations related to employee misconduct, discrimination, harassment, and other ER issues Conduct thorough interviews with complainants, respondents, and witnesses to gather and assess all relevant information impartially Provide clear, detailed investigation reports, outlining findings, conclusions, and recommended corrective actions Collaborate with senior HR leadership to drive resolutions and ensure actions are compliant with organizational policies, employment laws, and regulatory standards Serve as a key resource and provide ongoing mentorship and guidance to HR Generalists (HRGs) on employee relations cases, conflict resolution, and performance management Offer hands-on support and direction for less complex investigations managed by HRGs, ensuring consistent handling of cases across the team Lead the development of investigation best practices and ensure HRGs are equipped with the tools, resources, and knowledge to manage cases efficiently Provide expert-level advice to HRBPs and HRGs on complex employee relations matters, helping them navigate difficult situations and make informed decisions Partner with HR leadership to identify trends and recommend strategies for improving employee relations and workplace culture Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and company policies, advising managers and HR professionals on regulatory matters Assist in the development, implementation, and continuous review of ER and HR compliance policies and procedures to maintain adherence to legal requirements Analyze employee relations and HR compliance data to identify trends and provide insights to HR leadership, helping to proactively address recurring issues Maintain accurate and confidential records of employee relations investigations, complaints, and compliance activities, ensuring they meet legal and organizational standards Employee must cooperate with the license and department staff in any inspection, inquiry, or investigation Minimum Requirements Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, or related field (required) Minimum of four years of experience in employee relations, investigations, or conflict resolution in a fast-paced environment Proven ability to handle complex investigations and provide strategic ER and compliance advice to senior leadership and HR teams In-depth knowledge of employment laws (FMLA, ADA, Title VII, etc.) and HR compliance best practices Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to produce clear and concise reports Proficient in Microsoft Office and HRIS systems Experience in a nonprofit or healthcare environment Strong mediation, conflict resolution, and leadership skills Employment is contingent upon successful completion of checks of criminal background, central registry, child abuse registry, and drug testing Why Community Options? Competitive Insurance Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision) Paid Holidays—Including a Birthday Holiday Generous PTO Employee Incentive & Discount Programs 403b Retirement Plan Incredible career growth opportunities Please Visit Our Website to Complete an Online Application! Careers.comop.org Community Options is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V #IND-NA