Employee Relations Specialist - Human Resources

Committee for Public Counsel Services•Boston, MA

10h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS), the public defender agency of Massachusetts, is seeking a full-time Employee Relations Specialist to support the Chief Human Resource Officer and two Directors of Human Resources to address a broad range of employee relations issues. This role is part of a strong, experienced HR team supporting an organization of passionate professionals providing legal services to indigent clients in Massachusetts. This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule with a minimum of two days per week in our Boston Office and will require frequent travel to offices throughout the Commonwealth. CPCS fights for equal justice and human dignity by supporting clients in achieving their legal and life goals, zealously advocating for the rights of individuals and promoting just public policy to protect the rights of all. CPCS is committed to protecting the fundamental constitutional and human rights of its assigned clients through zealous advocacy, community-oriented defense, and excellent legal representation. The agency embraces and endorses diversity, equity, and inclusion as core values, aiming to ensure that management and staff represent a broad range of human differences and experience, provide a respectful work climate that supports success, and promote the dignity and well-being of all staff members. CPCS is the state agency in Massachusetts responsible for providing attorneys for individuals who cannot afford to retain one, representing clients in various legal cases including criminal, delinquency, family regulation, guardianship, mental health, and sexually dangerous person cases. The Human Resources Department strives to provide exceptional service, upholding an environment that maximizes employee experience, fosters growth, and enhances staff mastery of the law. The department encompasses Benefits and Wellness, Payroll, and Recruiting and Hiring. The Employee Relations Specialist is a new position that will play a pivotal role in advancing the agency's mission by working with managers and employees to address employee relations issues, supporting managers and employees in all Employee Relations matters, and reporting to a Human Resource Director. This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule with a minimum of two days per week in our Boston Office and will require frequent travel to offices throughout the Commonwealth.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field and at least four (4) years of human resources or related work in employee relations, or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and skills
Access to an automobile in order to travel
Access to home internet access sufficient to work remotely
Proven experience in employee relations roles, preferably within HR
In-depth knowledge of employment and labor laws, regulations, and best practices
Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills, including conflict resolution and negotiation experience
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Proficiency in HRIS software and Microsoft Office Suite
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with employees and diverse stakeholders
Passion for public defense and a commitment to social justice

Nice To Haves

SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP preferred
Masters degree preferred

Responsibilities

Acting as a primary point of contact for managers and employees regarding ER issues, including providing timely guidance and support, and fostering positive outcomes
Ensuring compliance with CPCS policies, procedures and monitoring feedback on agency policies
Aligning employee relations processes with agency policies to avoid confusion and ensure employees are treated fairly across the organization
Investigating misconduct, policy violations, or harassment incidents, including interviewing witnesses, reporting findings, and recommending appropriate disciplinary actions or corrective measures as needed
Drafting investigatory reports and other documents related to employee relations matters
Helping managers decide on appropriate disciplinary actions for employee misconduct or performance issues and documenting the process
Implementing initiatives to promote employee engagement, satisfaction, retention, and to enhance workplace culture
Collaborating with the Learning and Development team to develop ER-related training for managers and employees
Assisting in the performance evaluation and management processes, including coaching managers on performance-related issues
Engaging in open, proactive communication and support and encouraging honest feedback from staff, and addressing concerns promptly
Maintaining accurate records of ER cases, investigations, and outcomes, preparing reports, and analyses for management review
Keeping abreast of relevant laws, regulations, and industry trends related to employee relations
Other duties as assigned