Senior Employee Relations Specialist
Novogradac, Portland, OR, United States
Position Summary
The Senior Employee Relations Specialist manages a variety of responsibilities within the employee relations function of the human resources department, including handling employee relations and performance management cases with increased independence, ownership, and complexity. This includes performance management cases, facilitating the semi‑annual performance review process, managing leaves and accommodations, and conducting exit interviews. The position may also flex into other functional areas of HR to provide assistance and/or back‑up support. There is one position available in either Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX; Cleveland, OH; Dover, OH; Long Beach, CA; or Portland, OR. Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Research and resolve complex employee relations and performance management issues with minimal direction from the Assistant Director of Human Resources, recommending courses of action from coaching to formal discipline to termination decisions. Draft meeting notes, performance improvement plans, disciplinary actions, and other documentation for employee relations cases. Track and follow up on employee relations cases until they are resolved and closed. Provide data‑driven insights to identify emerging trends, mitigate risk, and support proactive ER strategies. Conduct intake of employee concerns received by email, phone, or the company’s case management system. Coach leaders on effective communication techniques for employee issues. Assist with internal investigations in response to concerns or complaints and recommend appropriate actions. Act as witness or note‑taker for employee relations cases managed by the Assistant Director of HR. Facilitate the semi‑annual Performance Review process for designated offices or client groups, including system set‑up, supporting leaders, and conducting HR review and approval of feedback. Conduct exit interviews and oversee the process; assist in monthly tracking of turnover data. Collaborate and provide back‑up support for requests for employee accommodations (ADA), including facilitating the interactive process and recommending appropriate accommodations. Assist in developing and presenting employee and management development training courses. Assist with Human Resources projects and collaborate with employees in HR and other departments to support business needs. Provide back‑up support to the HR department for coverage or other special projects as needed. Complete other job duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Lead by example with a positive and collaborative approach. Mentor and grow staff in the employee relations area. Strong analytical skills: gather information, conduct analyses, present findings, identify trends, translate findings, and create solutions; superior writing/documentation skills and a coaching approach. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, able to analyze and interpret complex HR policies and law and translate them clearly to staff at all levels. Demonstrated knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, assessing risk and recommending compliant solutions. Conduct or lead complex employee relations investigations, including interviewing, evidence analysis, credibility assessments, and drafting defensible documentation. Exercise sound judgment in complex or sensitive matters and independently recommend appropriate resolutions. Consult with and influence leaders at all levels, providing clear guidance on employee relations matters, performance management, and corrective action. Support organizational change initiatives by anticipating employee relations impacts and advising leaders. Complete work accurately with strong attention to detail. Develop rapport with a variety of personalities and maintain a calm, professional demeanor during stressful situations. Prioritize a fast‑paced and varied workload, managing concurrent and shifting priorities. Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information. Strong computer skills, including advanced Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and familiarity with HR software (Paychex Flex and Workday). Able to work evenings and weekends as needed. Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a related area plus a minimum of 8 years of experience directly managing employee relations cases. HR Generalist and/or HRBP experience may be considered in lieu of specialized roles. Preferred Qualifications
Experience working in a multi‑state organization. Prior experience in a professional services firm. HRCI/SHRM certification is desirable. Benefits We Offer
Increased number of paid holidays per year. Competitive salaries with continuous market reviews. Flexible working hours and arrangements. Remote and hybrid opportunities. Inclusive workplace with strong professional growth and development opportunities. Strong growth opportunities. Competitive benefits package. 401(k) package with firm profit‑sharing. Emphasis on quality work‑life integration. Dress‑for‑your‑day policy. Resources of a national firm. Opportunities to engage with Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), affinity groups, and advance your career within a supportive, inclusive environment. Compensation: $90,000 to $121,000 depending on experience; higher if experience dictates. Commitment to Inclusion
Novogradac is committed to ensuring a fair and inclusive recruitment process, making reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities or special needs throughout the application process. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to apply, as we believe unique perspectives strengthen our ability to achieve excellence. Novogradac & Company LLP is an equal‑opportunity employer. Novogradac’s culture is centered on education, acceptance, innovation, and opportunity. We value diversity and respect the different perspectives that each employee brings, regardless of age, race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
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The Senior Employee Relations Specialist manages a variety of responsibilities within the employee relations function of the human resources department, including handling employee relations and performance management cases with increased independence, ownership, and complexity. This includes performance management cases, facilitating the semi‑annual performance review process, managing leaves and accommodations, and conducting exit interviews. The position may also flex into other functional areas of HR to provide assistance and/or back‑up support. There is one position available in either Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX; Cleveland, OH; Dover, OH; Long Beach, CA; or Portland, OR. Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Research and resolve complex employee relations and performance management issues with minimal direction from the Assistant Director of Human Resources, recommending courses of action from coaching to formal discipline to termination decisions. Draft meeting notes, performance improvement plans, disciplinary actions, and other documentation for employee relations cases. Track and follow up on employee relations cases until they are resolved and closed. Provide data‑driven insights to identify emerging trends, mitigate risk, and support proactive ER strategies. Conduct intake of employee concerns received by email, phone, or the company’s case management system. Coach leaders on effective communication techniques for employee issues. Assist with internal investigations in response to concerns or complaints and recommend appropriate actions. Act as witness or note‑taker for employee relations cases managed by the Assistant Director of HR. Facilitate the semi‑annual Performance Review process for designated offices or client groups, including system set‑up, supporting leaders, and conducting HR review and approval of feedback. Conduct exit interviews and oversee the process; assist in monthly tracking of turnover data. Collaborate and provide back‑up support for requests for employee accommodations (ADA), including facilitating the interactive process and recommending appropriate accommodations. Assist in developing and presenting employee and management development training courses. Assist with Human Resources projects and collaborate with employees in HR and other departments to support business needs. Provide back‑up support to the HR department for coverage or other special projects as needed. Complete other job duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Lead by example with a positive and collaborative approach. Mentor and grow staff in the employee relations area. Strong analytical skills: gather information, conduct analyses, present findings, identify trends, translate findings, and create solutions; superior writing/documentation skills and a coaching approach. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, able to analyze and interpret complex HR policies and law and translate them clearly to staff at all levels. Demonstrated knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, assessing risk and recommending compliant solutions. Conduct or lead complex employee relations investigations, including interviewing, evidence analysis, credibility assessments, and drafting defensible documentation. Exercise sound judgment in complex or sensitive matters and independently recommend appropriate resolutions. Consult with and influence leaders at all levels, providing clear guidance on employee relations matters, performance management, and corrective action. Support organizational change initiatives by anticipating employee relations impacts and advising leaders. Complete work accurately with strong attention to detail. Develop rapport with a variety of personalities and maintain a calm, professional demeanor during stressful situations. Prioritize a fast‑paced and varied workload, managing concurrent and shifting priorities. Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information. Strong computer skills, including advanced Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and familiarity with HR software (Paychex Flex and Workday). Able to work evenings and weekends as needed. Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a related area plus a minimum of 8 years of experience directly managing employee relations cases. HR Generalist and/or HRBP experience may be considered in lieu of specialized roles. Preferred Qualifications
Experience working in a multi‑state organization. Prior experience in a professional services firm. HRCI/SHRM certification is desirable. Benefits We Offer
Increased number of paid holidays per year. Competitive salaries with continuous market reviews. Flexible working hours and arrangements. Remote and hybrid opportunities. Inclusive workplace with strong professional growth and development opportunities. Strong growth opportunities. Competitive benefits package. 401(k) package with firm profit‑sharing. Emphasis on quality work‑life integration. Dress‑for‑your‑day policy. Resources of a national firm. Opportunities to engage with Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), affinity groups, and advance your career within a supportive, inclusive environment. Compensation: $90,000 to $121,000 depending on experience; higher if experience dictates. Commitment to Inclusion
Novogradac is committed to ensuring a fair and inclusive recruitment process, making reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities or special needs throughout the application process. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to apply, as we believe unique perspectives strengthen our ability to achieve excellence. Novogradac & Company LLP is an equal‑opportunity employer. Novogradac’s culture is centered on education, acceptance, innovation, and opportunity. We value diversity and respect the different perspectives that each employee brings, regardless of age, race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
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