Employee Relations Specialist

Smithfield Foods•Sioux Falls, SD

18h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Employee Relations Specialist - Investigations fosters a productive and compliant workplace by taking charge of investigating employee relations matters, providing thorough summary reports, and offering remediation recommendations to resolve issues effectively. This role identifies trends through quarterly reporting to enable the development of targeted training programs that promote a positive work environment. The Specialist drives consistency in policies and best practices, ensuring the workforce aligns with business goals and promotes a positive employee experience. The role involves leading the investigation process for the HR Department, conducting interviews, reviewing camera footage, preparing witness statements and notes, and researching past practices to prepare comprehensive case summaries and recommendations. Maintaining accurate records and properly filing completed cases supports the integrity of employee relations practices, promoting a productive workforce and effective communication.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Human Resources or a related field and 2+ years of relevant HR and/or law enforcement experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience, required.
Demonstrated understanding of the requirement to thoroughly document and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
Demonstrated ability to handle multiple, possibly conflicting priorities.
Strong communication and administrative skills
Strong problem solving, conflict resolution, and decision-making skills
The ability to work well with employees at all levels of the organization
Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment
Ability to be respectful, approachable and team oriented while building strong working relationships and a positive work environment

Responsibilities

Investigates employee relations concerns, including but not limited to harassment, discrimination, wage/hours, and retaliation received through various channels.
Conducts effective, thorough, and objective investigations, recommending resolutions while ensuring fairness and consistency with local policies and practices.
Maintains accurate, complete, and confidential records in the investigation file for all investigations.
Partners with legal when necessary to conduct investigations, research policies/practices, and create and gather appropriate documentation.
Works closely with site leaders to ensure all policies and procedures are understood, communicated, and consistently administered.
Recommends educational solutions to improve awareness of the Code of Conduct, policies, and other employee relations matters.
Tracks grievances, investigates and drives issues to resolution, working with the HR Director and operations on any changes to practices or processes.
Analyzes and evaluates employee relations trends, providing actionable feedback to the HR Director and operations partners.
Assists with best practices content for monthly leadership roundtable discussions and other employee relations action plans.

Benefits

Relocation Package Available
Medical plans
Be Well programs offer tools and resources to enhance your quality of life, at no additional cost.
Support for elective surgeries, weight loss, mental health, cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, smoking cessation, asthma, maternity management and more.
Comprehensive training and professional development programs
LinkedIn Learning access on-demand courses, professional certificates, and skill-based training
Tuition assistance covering English language learning, high school completion, and degree programs
Leadership development initiatives
Smithfield Scholarship Program for employees’ children
Education Reimbursement Program provides financial reimbursement for obtaining a GED/High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma or pursuing an academic degree at an accredited college or university