HR Employee Relations Specialist

Texas A&M - Corpus Christi•Corpus Christi, TX

About The Position

The HR Employee Relations Specialist serves as a strategic Human Resources partner, fostering a positive, respectful, and productive workplace across Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi. The position conducts workplace investigations; advises supervisors and employees on employee relations matters; supports performance management; and assists with corrective action processes. It works with supervisors and administrators to resolve workplace concerns, apply University policies consistently, improve employee performance, and support effective employee relations practices throughout the employee lifecycle, including performance improvement planning, disciplinary action, conflict resolution, and separations. The role conducts prompt, impartial investigations into employee non-civil-rights complaints and other workplace matters. It gathers and assesses evidence, develops investigation plans, communicates with stakeholders, prepares reports and recommendations, maintains confidential records, and provides case updates to HR leadership. It also consults with managers on performance, conduct, attendance, and workplace behavior; assists with Performance Improvement Plans and progressive discipline; reviews documentation for consistency and policy alignment; and coordinates corrective actions and terminations in consultation with the Office of General Counsel. The specialist provides guidance on employee relations and policy interpretation, researches applicable policies and employment requirements, facilitates conflict resolution and workplace mediation when appropriate, and supports retention, engagement, culture, and training initiatives. The role also prepares reports, maintains records, analyzes employee relations metrics, supports employee separations and special HR projects, and performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology, Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Organizational Leadership, or a related field.
Two years of professional experience in Human Resources, employee relations, workplace investigations, labor relations, case management, or a related field.
Knowledge of employee relations principles, workplace investigations, performance management, progressive discipline, and conflict resolution practices.
Strong interviewing, analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare professional reports, finding summaries, and employment-related documentation.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential matters with professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment.
Strong organizational and project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Ability to build effective working relationships with employees, faculty, staff, supervisors, and senior leadership.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

Nice To Haves

Three to five years of experience in employee relations, workplace investigations, Human Resources, or performance management.
Professional Human Resources certification such as SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR.
Experience conducting workplace investigations and preparing investigative reports.
Experience developing and administering Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) and corrective action processes.
Experience in higher education, the public sector, healthcare, or similarly complex organizations.
Training or certification in workplace mediation, conflict resolution, employee relations, or investigations.

Responsibilities

Conduct prompt, thorough, and impartial investigations into employee non-civil-rights complaints, misconduct, policy violations, conflicts, retaliation concerns, attendance issues, and other workplace matters.
Gather and analyze evidence through interviews, document reviews, and other fact-finding activities; develop investigation plans and timelines; and communicate with appropriate stakeholders.
Prepare investigative reports, findings summaries, and recommendations; assess facts and credibility; maintain confidential files; and provide case updates to HR leadership.
Identify employee relations patterns and trends and recommend corrective actions that support workplace culture, engagement, and organizational effectiveness.
Consult with supervisors and department leaders regarding performance, conduct, attendance, and workplace behavior concerns.
Assist managers with developing, implementing, and monitoring Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs).
Guide managers on progressive discipline and review disciplinary documentation for consistency, fairness, and alignment with University policies and employment practices.
Interpret and provide guidance on HR policies, procedures, and employment-related requirements; participate in performance discussions, disciplinary meetings, and counseling sessions as appropriate.
Assist management and HR leadership in determining corrective actions and coordinate disciplinary actions, including involuntary terminations, in consultation with the Office of General Counsel.
Provide employee relations consultation and recommendations to supervisors and administrators; research policies, regulations, and employment laws; and recommend practices for consistent, compliant decision-making.
Facilitate conflict resolution and workplace mediation when appropriate.
Support employee retention, engagement, and organizational culture initiatives, and assist in developing and delivering related training.
Prepare reports, maintain records, and analyze employee relations metrics as requested.
Support voluntary and involuntary employee separation processes, including documentation, policy compliance, and coordination with stakeholders.
Assist with special HR projects and perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Medical insurance, with Employee Only coverage listed at $0–$30 per month after the university contribution; the university covers up to 83% of premiums for other listed coverage options.
Dental and vision insurance.
Life insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance, and long-term disability insurance.
Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account.
Dual Career Partner Program.
On-campus wellness opportunities.
Counseling, work-life assistance, financial resources, and legal resources through Work Life Solutions.
Tuition benefits, including Public Loan Forgiveness, book scholarships, and tuition coverage for up to 18 credit hours per fiscal year, subject to applicable rules.
Retirement through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas or Optional Retirement Plan, with voluntary tax-deferred account/deferred compensation options.
Monthly vacation and sick leave accrual.
Eight hours of paid birthday leave.
12–15 paid holidays each year.
Professional development opportunities.