Employee Relations Business Partner

National Children’s Center, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that is one of the region’s largest non-governmental providers of services for individuals with developmental disabilities, offering an array of services to infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and adults in the Washington metropolitan area. Our mission is to provide a lifetime of opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

SUMMARY: The Employee Relations Business Partner is an integral member of the HR team. The ER Business Partner is responsible for managing complex employee relations cases, ensuring compliance with collective bargaining agreements, and working to improve retention through proactive conflict resolution and employee engagement strategies. The ideal candidate will serve as a trusted advisor to management and employees while advocating for fair and consistent application of policies across the organization.

SCHEDULE & LOCATION: This position offers a hybrid schedule. Candidates must be able to work from our main office in Silver Spring, MD two (2) days per week and visit our Early Learning Center in SE Washington, DC on a regular basis. 

This position has an annual salary range of $90,000-$100,000, determined by various factors including internal pay equity, experience, skills and qualifications.  

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Thoroughly investigate and manage ER/LR cases, ensuring consistency and alignment to established compliance regulations, policies and processes. Escalate issues to the appropriate executive stakeholders when necessary.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive case management systems to organize investigation files, evidence and documentation.
• Prepare detailed investigation reports with findings, conclusions, and recommendations for remedial action.
• Ensure all investigations comply with legal requirements, union contracts, and organizational policies.
• Interpret and apply collective bargaining agreement provisions to resolve workplace disputes and grievances. 
• Participate in contract negotiations as a subject matter expert on employee relations and operations impacts.
• Serve as an internal consultant to management on complex employee relations matters, disciplinary actions, and policy interpretation.
• Works closely with management and employees to improve work relationships, build morale, and increase productivity and retention. 
• Develop policies, documents, and reports including EEO-1, affirmative action plans, organizational charts, labor agreements, and employee handbooks.
• Conduct management training regarding all aspects of employee and labor relations.
• Other HR duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with ability to produce clear, concise investigative reports, recommendations, and corrective action plans
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with ability to apply sound judgement
• Excellent organizational skills with proven ability to manage multiple complex cases simultaneously
• Ability to manage difficult conversations and de-escalate conflicts effectively
• Deep understanding of employment law, labor relations, and union contract interpretation
• Adept, consultative approach and demonstrated ability to act as an internal advisor. Ability to develop trusted relationships across all levels of the organization, built on professionalism, follow-up, and accurate communication.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS systems

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field
• Three to five (3-5) years of experience in employee relations including experience in a unionized workplace 
• Demonstrated experience conducting complex workplace investigations 
• Experience with contract administration and grievance resolution

 COVID-19: You are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination prior to your first day of employment. 

NCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ethnicity, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.