Employee Relations Specialist

The Scion Group•Chicago, IL

2d•$63,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

Scion is paving a path in student living and we’re seeking an experienced Employee Relations Specialist to join us in executing our vision. This position plays a crucial role in fostering a positive and productive work environment by mitigating employee conflict, promoting compliance, and ensuring fair and equitable treatment for all employees. The Employee Relations Specialist role is a reliable, organized individual that excels with high volume in an agile, corporate environment. This role demands confidentiality, integrity, and strong initiative. This is an in-office opportunity, based at our Chicago headquarters. For FLSA purposes, this position is exempt.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or relative field and minimum of 2-3 years’ experience working in a professional Human Resources function.
At least 2 years of practical employee relations experience including coaching and counseling management on a variety of employee relations matters, developing disciplinary and performance improvement related plans, and guiding management through addressing sensitive and difficult discussions with their direct reports.
Proven ability to conduct impartial investigations and manage sensitive employee issues with discretion and professionalism.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain HR policies clearly to a diverse audience.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS systems; experience with UKG Pro preferred.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities—especially during acquisition and turnover periods.
Demonstrated commitment to maintaining confidentiality and a high level of integrity.
Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting multi-site operations or property management environments strongly preferred.
SHRM-CP or PHR certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary HR contact for assigned portfolios, addressing employee inquiries and providing frontline support on HR-related matters.
Provide coaching and guidance to employees and managers on employee relations issues, performance improvement strategies, and HR policies, escalating complex matters when appropriate.
Conduct thorough, impartial, and timely investigations into employee complaints, including allegations of harassment, workplace disputes, and policy violations, ensuring compliance with legal and company standards.
Facilitate conflict resolution and mediate discussions between employees and leadership to foster effective communication and maintain a positive work environment.
Provide coaching and support to managers on employee relations best practices, including conflict management, disciplinary procedures, and performance coaching.
Maintain detailed, accurate, and confidential records of employee relations matters in accordance with company policy and legal requirements.
Represent the company in legal proceedings such as unemployment hearings and EEOC investigations; collaborate with legal counsel to prepare documentation and support case strategy.
Analyze employee relations data and trends to identify areas for improvement and recommend proactive solutions.
Stay current on employment law, HR best practices, and trends specific to student housing, ensuring a compliant, inclusive, and service-oriented workplace culture.