Employee Relations/Engagement Specialist

Build Your Career. Make a Difference.

Since 1949, Sidney Federal Credit Union (SFCU) has been committed to helping people achieve financial success and strengthening the communities we serve. What began as a small member-owned cooperative in Sidney, New York, has grown into a trusted financial institution with more than $1 billion in assets and a presence across New York.

At SFCU, we believe great member experiences start with great employees. We’re building a workplace where people can grow, contribute, collaborate, and build meaningful careers while making a positive impact on our members and communities.

When you join SFCU, you become part of a team that values service, innovation, professional growth, and relationships. Whether you’re helping members reach important financial milestones, improving processes, developing new solutions, or supporting the teams who serve our members, your work matters.

Position Summary

The Employee Relations & Engagement Specialist supports a positive, productive, and inclusive work environment by managing day-to-day employee relations matters, promoting employee engagement initiatives, and ensuring consistent application of organizational policies. This role acts as a trusted partner to employees and leaders by providing guidance, facilitating communication, and helping maintain a culture aligned with the credit union’s mission and values.

Key Responsibilities

Employee Relations

• Serve as the primary HR contact for employee relations issues, ensuring timely, confidential, and thorough handling of concerns.

• Conduct employee relations investigations, including interviews, documentation, recommendations, and follow-up actions.

• Maintain detailed and compliant records of employee relations cases.

• Provide coaching and support to managers on performance management, corrective action, and conflict resolution.

• Partner with leadership to identify trends and recommend solutions to reduce issues and improve workplace climate.

• Ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws, policies, and best practices.

• Employee Engagement & Culture

• Lead or support programs that enhance employee morale, engagement, and retention.

• Manage engagement surveys, analyze results, and recommend actionable strategies.

• Assist with planning and execution of employee appreciation events and recognition programs.

• Support initiatives that strengthen organizational culture, diversity, and belonging.

• Collaborate with communication teams to promote internal programs and key messaging.

• Manage workplace injury/workers compensation

Performance & Development Support

• Assist managers with performance review processes, goal setting, and employee development planning.

• Support the development and delivery of training related to employee relations, communication, and culture.

• Help create resources, tools, and guides to improve employee experience and leadership capability.

HR Operations & Compliance

• Assist with policy updates and ensure employees receive clear, consistent information.

• Maintain accurate HR documentation and reporting related to employee relations and engagement.

• Participate in onboarding activities to support a welcoming and cohesive employee experience.

• Contribute to HR projects and initiatives that drive organizational and cultural improvement.

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, psychology, or related field.

• 2–5 years of HR with a focus on employee relations and/or employee engagement.

• Strong knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.

• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Proven ability to build trust and positive relationships across all levels of the organization.

• Proficiency in HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities with attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in financial services, credit unions, or regulated industries a plus.

• Experience using UKG HCM.

Working Conditions

• Standard office environment with occasional travel to branch locations.

• May require participation in after-hours events or meetings.

Benefits: The SFCU Difference

We’re committed to providing a rewarding employee experience and a competitive total rewards package that supports your wellbeing, financial future, and professional development. Depending on position and eligibility, benefits and opportunities may include:

• Competitive compensation
• Generous paid time off
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement savings benefits
• Professional development and career growth opportunities
• Financial wellness resources
• Employee recognition programs
• Community involvement opportunities
• Wellness initiatives and employee assistance resources

Ready to build a career with purpose? Join SFCU and help us make a lasting difference for our members, our communities, and one another.

SFCU is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of SFCU to prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type and to afford equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, or citizenship, age, genetic predisposition or carrier status, gender identity or expression, disability, military or veteran status, sexual or reproductive health decisions, traits historically associated with race and/or any other status or characteristic protected by law.