Friendship Place is hiring: Employee Relations Specialist in Washington
Friendship Place, Washington, DC, United States
Employee Relations Specialist
The Employee Relations Specialist is responsible for managing and supporting a wide range of employee relations matters to promote a respectful, compliant, and productive workplace. This role provides guidance to supervisors and staff on workplace policies, performance management, conflict resolution, and disciplinary processes. The Employee Relations Specialist conducts workplace investigations, addresses employee concerns, and assists in resolving conflicts while ensuring consistent application of organizational policies and practices. This position serves as a trusted resource to management and staff by providing guidance on employee relations best practices, facilitating constructive communication, and supporting a positive workplace culture aligned with the organization's mission and values. Essential Position Duties and Responsibilities Employee Relations & Support Serve as a primary point of contact for employees seeking guidance or resolution on workplace issues, concerns, or conflicts. Conduct confidential investigations into employee complaints and grievances, ensuring timely, fair, and thorough outcomes. Applies sound judgment, neutrality, and problem-solving skills to resolve workplace issues constructively and collaboratively. Provide coaching and guidance to managers and employees on performance, conduct, policy interpretation, and disciplinary action. Partner with leadership to ensure a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace aligned with organizational values and mission. Policy, Compliance & Documentation Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and nonprofit workplace regulations. Support the development, communication, and implementation of HR policies and procedures. Maintains strict discretion in handling employee and organizational information. Assist in reviewing and updating employee handbooks, procedures, and internal communications related to HR and workplace standards. Employee Engagement & Culture Collaborate with HR leadership to develop and implement initiatives that promote employee engagement, recognition, and retention. Gather feedback through surveys, focus groups, and exit interviews to identify areas for organizational improvement. Coordinate staff engagement sessions and wellness initiatives to enhance morale and team cohesion. Requirements Qualifications: Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, or related field; equivalent specific long-term experience may be considered. Experience working in a supervisory, HR, or employee relations role is required. Candidates must have at least 3 5 years of direct, hands-on employee relations experience, including the handling of investigations, performance management, corrective action, and employee conflict resolution. Experience in making employment-related decisions aligned with policy and compliance standards is required. Certification in Conflict Resolution, Mediation, or Workplace Investigations is a plus. Experience in a mission-based or social services environment, particularly with programs serving unhoused populations or veterans, is strongly preferred. Must have or be able to obtain a First Aid/CPR/AED certification that includes a hands-on skills testing module. Friendship Place will provide First Aid/CPR/AED training. Valid driver's license with proof of insurance required. Skills and Competencies: Strong intra- and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to express ideas clearly in both verbal and written form; skilled in respectful colleague and supervisor interactions, as well as accurate, professional, and timely documentation Strong understanding of HR best practices and employment law. Ability to work effectively across diverse teams and build trust at all levels of the organization. Compassionate and trauma-informed approach to employee interactions. Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail. Able to apply sound judgment in complex situations and serve as a neutral and credible resource during workplace issues. Able to balance employee advocacy with organizational compliance. Able to demonstrate professionalism across all levels of the organization at work and at any organization-sponsored event Excellent time management, detail-oriented, organized, capable of maintaining confidentiality, and able to work independently with minimal supervision Must be able to demonstrate active listening, emotional awareness, and have the ability to professionally adapt their communication style to different individuals and situations that may be emotionally charged. Strong commitment to the organization's mission, vision, and values Physical and Environmental Requirements: Hybrid, remote; required to travel to sites to meet with employees. The position requires split time between an office setting and traveling to office sites via car or public transportation. Employees must be able to sit for extended periods while performing repetitive tasks and maintaining positions. The employee must be able to operate a motorized vehicle. Some lifting may be required (up to 20-25 lbs.) Some evening or weekend hours may be required. Background checks:
The selected candidate will be required to pass a criminal history background check, CFSA, NSO, Employment and Education Verification, personal and professional references, and a Department of Motor Vehicles clearance. Other Details: Application Deadline:
This job is open until filled or until the hiring manager determines they can no longer accept applications. Compensation:
The starting pay range is $38.46 - $40.86/hour. The starting annual salary is based on a step system. A candidate's starting pay is determined by meeting the basic position requirements and having completed education, credentials, and work experience. Please note: The step system is set and not open to pay negotiation. Benefits:
We offer an excellent benefits package including low-cost health insurance, health reimbursement, flexible spending accounts, employer-paid dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, 403B defined contribution plan matching, employee assistance programs, professional development, employee resource groups, 14 paid holidays, 15 days of vacation and 10 days of sick leave during 1st year of employment, and much more! (Benefits are pro-rated for part-time employees). COVID-19:
All Friendship Place employees, regardless of their vaccination status, must continue to take precautions against the spread of COVID-19, in accordance with the agency's COVID-19 protocols and applicable law and guidance. This includes but is not limited to, wearing masks in congregated settings, washing their hands or using hand sanitizer often, monitoring their daily health, and staying home if they are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms (or if they are otherwise prohibited from reporting to work by health provider pursuant to CDC, state and local guidance). Since the public health and legal landscapes regarding this policy are subject to frequent changes, Friendship Place reserves the right to amend or cancel this policy at any time at its sole discretion, consistent with applicable law, consistent with CDC guidelines and the DC Department of Health. Interview Process:
Phone screening, panel-style interview, investigative writing sample, and final interview. Equal Opportunity Statement:
We support all qualified individuals within our workforce without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status, personal appearance, familial status, family responsibilities, political affiliations, matriculation, credit, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Reasonable Accommodation Statement:
Friendship Place is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in its employment, services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact human resources at humanresources@friendshipplace.org How to Apply:
Interested applicants should apply via the organizational website. All of our current career openings can be found by visiting www.friendshipplace.org
The Employee Relations Specialist is responsible for managing and supporting a wide range of employee relations matters to promote a respectful, compliant, and productive workplace. This role provides guidance to supervisors and staff on workplace policies, performance management, conflict resolution, and disciplinary processes. The Employee Relations Specialist conducts workplace investigations, addresses employee concerns, and assists in resolving conflicts while ensuring consistent application of organizational policies and practices. This position serves as a trusted resource to management and staff by providing guidance on employee relations best practices, facilitating constructive communication, and supporting a positive workplace culture aligned with the organization's mission and values. Essential Position Duties and Responsibilities Employee Relations & Support Serve as a primary point of contact for employees seeking guidance or resolution on workplace issues, concerns, or conflicts. Conduct confidential investigations into employee complaints and grievances, ensuring timely, fair, and thorough outcomes. Applies sound judgment, neutrality, and problem-solving skills to resolve workplace issues constructively and collaboratively. Provide coaching and guidance to managers and employees on performance, conduct, policy interpretation, and disciplinary action. Partner with leadership to ensure a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace aligned with organizational values and mission. Policy, Compliance & Documentation Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and nonprofit workplace regulations. Support the development, communication, and implementation of HR policies and procedures. Maintains strict discretion in handling employee and organizational information. Assist in reviewing and updating employee handbooks, procedures, and internal communications related to HR and workplace standards. Employee Engagement & Culture Collaborate with HR leadership to develop and implement initiatives that promote employee engagement, recognition, and retention. Gather feedback through surveys, focus groups, and exit interviews to identify areas for organizational improvement. Coordinate staff engagement sessions and wellness initiatives to enhance morale and team cohesion. Requirements Qualifications: Education/Experience: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, or related field; equivalent specific long-term experience may be considered. Experience working in a supervisory, HR, or employee relations role is required. Candidates must have at least 3 5 years of direct, hands-on employee relations experience, including the handling of investigations, performance management, corrective action, and employee conflict resolution. Experience in making employment-related decisions aligned with policy and compliance standards is required. Certification in Conflict Resolution, Mediation, or Workplace Investigations is a plus. Experience in a mission-based or social services environment, particularly with programs serving unhoused populations or veterans, is strongly preferred. Must have or be able to obtain a First Aid/CPR/AED certification that includes a hands-on skills testing module. Friendship Place will provide First Aid/CPR/AED training. Valid driver's license with proof of insurance required. Skills and Competencies: Strong intra- and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to express ideas clearly in both verbal and written form; skilled in respectful colleague and supervisor interactions, as well as accurate, professional, and timely documentation Strong understanding of HR best practices and employment law. Ability to work effectively across diverse teams and build trust at all levels of the organization. Compassionate and trauma-informed approach to employee interactions. Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail. Able to apply sound judgment in complex situations and serve as a neutral and credible resource during workplace issues. Able to balance employee advocacy with organizational compliance. Able to demonstrate professionalism across all levels of the organization at work and at any organization-sponsored event Excellent time management, detail-oriented, organized, capable of maintaining confidentiality, and able to work independently with minimal supervision Must be able to demonstrate active listening, emotional awareness, and have the ability to professionally adapt their communication style to different individuals and situations that may be emotionally charged. Strong commitment to the organization's mission, vision, and values Physical and Environmental Requirements: Hybrid, remote; required to travel to sites to meet with employees. The position requires split time between an office setting and traveling to office sites via car or public transportation. Employees must be able to sit for extended periods while performing repetitive tasks and maintaining positions. The employee must be able to operate a motorized vehicle. Some lifting may be required (up to 20-25 lbs.) Some evening or weekend hours may be required. Background checks:
The selected candidate will be required to pass a criminal history background check, CFSA, NSO, Employment and Education Verification, personal and professional references, and a Department of Motor Vehicles clearance. Other Details: Application Deadline:
This job is open until filled or until the hiring manager determines they can no longer accept applications. Compensation:
The starting pay range is $38.46 - $40.86/hour. The starting annual salary is based on a step system. A candidate's starting pay is determined by meeting the basic position requirements and having completed education, credentials, and work experience. Please note: The step system is set and not open to pay negotiation. Benefits:
We offer an excellent benefits package including low-cost health insurance, health reimbursement, flexible spending accounts, employer-paid dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, 403B defined contribution plan matching, employee assistance programs, professional development, employee resource groups, 14 paid holidays, 15 days of vacation and 10 days of sick leave during 1st year of employment, and much more! (Benefits are pro-rated for part-time employees). COVID-19:
All Friendship Place employees, regardless of their vaccination status, must continue to take precautions against the spread of COVID-19, in accordance with the agency's COVID-19 protocols and applicable law and guidance. This includes but is not limited to, wearing masks in congregated settings, washing their hands or using hand sanitizer often, monitoring their daily health, and staying home if they are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms (or if they are otherwise prohibited from reporting to work by health provider pursuant to CDC, state and local guidance). Since the public health and legal landscapes regarding this policy are subject to frequent changes, Friendship Place reserves the right to amend or cancel this policy at any time at its sole discretion, consistent with applicable law, consistent with CDC guidelines and the DC Department of Health. Interview Process:
Phone screening, panel-style interview, investigative writing sample, and final interview. Equal Opportunity Statement:
We support all qualified individuals within our workforce without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status, personal appearance, familial status, family responsibilities, political affiliations, matriculation, credit, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Reasonable Accommodation Statement:
Friendship Place is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in its employment, services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact human resources at humanresources@friendshipplace.org How to Apply:
Interested applicants should apply via the organizational website. All of our current career openings can be found by visiting www.friendshipplace.org