Employee Relations Specialist

Jimmy's Gourmet Bakery•Clifton, NJ

2d•$60,000 - $72,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Provides administrative and operational support for employee relations, compliance, and leave administration activities. This position plays a key role in maintaining accurate employee records, coordinating workplace investigations, administering leaves of absence, responding to unemployment claims, and ensuring compliance with company policies and applicable employment laws. Serves as a trusted resource for employees and managers while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions. Must be proficient in English and Spanish.

Requirements

Associate's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required.
2–4 years of Human Resources experience, preferably in employee relations, leave administration, or HR operations.
Working knowledge of federal and state employment laws, including FMLA, ADA, FLSA, and applicable state leave laws.
Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and HRIS systems.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with managers and HR team members.
Ability to sit, stand, and walk throughout manufacturing and office environments.
Ability to occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.
Ability to travel occasionally between company locations, as needed.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree preferred.
Experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
Experience administering FMLA, ADA, and state leave programs preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist with employee relations investigations, including scheduling interviews, gathering documentation, preparing investigation files, and maintaining confidential records.
Document employee conversations, coaching sessions, disciplinary actions, and investigation outcomes.
Track employee relations cases and ensure timely follow-up on action items.
Coordinate witness interviews and maintain investigation timelines.
Assist with preparing written communications related to corrective actions, policy violations, and employee concerns.
Support HR leadership in resolving workplace issues while maintaining confidentiality.
Maintain accurate and complete employee personnel files in accordance with company policy and legal requirements.
Process employee status changes including promotions, transfers, compensation changes, and terminations.
Ensure all required employment documentation is completed and properly filed.
Maintain electronic HRIS records and audit files for accuracy and completeness.
Respond to requests for employment verification and personnel records.
Coordinate administration of all employee leaves, including FMLA, NJFLA, paid family leave, military leave, ADA accommodations, personal leaves, and other applicable leave programs.
Communicate leave rights and responsibilities to employees and managers.
Track leave balances, certifications, return-to-work dates, and required documentation.
Coordinate with payroll, benefits, and third-party administrators to ensure accurate leave processing.
Monitor compliance with federal, state, and company leave policies.
Respond to unemployment insurance claims and requests for separation information.
Gather supporting documentation and coordinate with managers regarding claim details.
Assist with policy administration and employee acknowledgments.
Support internal and external audits by preparing HR documentation.
Maintain confidentiality of sensitive employee information.
Assist with HR reporting, metrics, and compliance tracking.
Provide excellent customer service to employees and managers regarding HR policies and procedures.
Assist with onboarding and offboarding activities as needed.
Support special HR projects and continuous improvement initiatives.
Perform other duties as assigned.