HR Specialist - Employee Relations

Hope The Mission•Los Angeles, CA

1d•$0 - $38•Hybrid

About The Position

Hope the Mission serves thousands of people across Los Angeles County. Doing that well requires a workforce that is treated fairly, supported consistently, and managed in compliance with the law. The HR Specialist, Employee Relations is the person responsible for making sure that happens when things get complicated. This position investigates workplace concerns, handles employee relations matters, and guides managers through corrective action, performance issues, and separations. The HR Specialist conducts formal investigations into grievances, policy violations, harassment allegations, and other workplace complaints. This role documents findings, makes recommendations to HR leadership, and ensures that every step of the process reflects organizational policy and California employment law. Beyond investigations, this position supports a range of HR functions including onboarding, HRIS data entry, benefits inquiries, leave of absence coordination, and compliance reporting. This role partners directly with the Director of Human Resources and works closely with managers and directors across the organization.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required
Minimum 3 to 5 years of progressive HR experience
Strong working knowledge of employee relations, investigations, and corrective action processes
Strong working knowledge of California labor law and HR compliance requirements
Experience with HRIS systems required
Background Screening – Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of background checks as required per worksite.
Drug and Alcohol Testing – Candidates must pass pre-employment and ongoing drug and alcohol screenings in accordance with company policy.
Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) Check – For roles requiring driving, employment is contingent upon an acceptable driving record.
Legal Eligibility to Work – Candidates must provide proof of legal authorization to work in the US.
Compliance with Company Policies and HIPAA standards – All employees must comply with company policies, including safety, confidentiality, and conduct standards.
Must have reliable transportation.

Nice To Haves

bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred
ADP Workforce Now experience preferred
PHR, SHRM-CP, or equivalent HR certification preferred

Responsibilities

Serve as the first point of contact for employee relations concerns and escalate to HR leadership as needed
Review employee incidents and grievances as assigned and prepare a detailed investigation plan within HTM HR guidelines
Conduct in-person, virtual, and telephonic interviews to gather relevant information and documentation
Collect, review, and analyze evidence, statements, records, and supporting documentation
Prepare comprehensive investigation summaries, findings, recommendations, and documentation for HR leadership review
Maintain accurate, objective, and confidential investigation case files
Provide coaching and guidance to supervisors and managers on performance, conduct, and corrective action
Provide guidance and oversight on performance management and corrective action processes through to separation
Prepare required documentation and meet with employees regarding terminations, resignations, furloughs, and layoffs in compliance with applicable law and HTM policy
Conduct exit interviews and report trends to HR leadership
Support applicant and candidate communications during the hiring process in coordination with hiring managers
Conduct new hire orientations and communicate expectations and compliance requirements
Support orientation logistics, materials preparation, and badge creation
Process onboarding paperwork including background checks, employment eligibility verification, and personnel file creation
Enter employee changes, separations, and pay updates into ADP Workforce Now and other HRIS systems accurately and on time
Maintain accurate digital and physical employee records in compliance with confidentiality requirements
Maintain HR forms and administrative tracking systems
Assist with data reporting, audits, and compliance checks across programs
Collaborate on leave of absence processes, workers' compensation claims, and related compliance tracking
Respond to routine employee questions regarding payroll, timekeeping, and benefits
Assist with benefit enrollment and basic benefits inquiries
Support HR policy implementation, communication, and training rollouts across departments
Assist in analyzing HR data to identify trends and recommend organizational improvements
Provide guidance and mentorship to HR staff on foundational HR tasks
Perform other duties as assigned