Staff Relations Specialist

The Cheesecake Factory•Agoura Hills, CA

31d•$70,000 - $80,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Eligible for a hybrid work schedule split between home & office, with a minimum of 3 days in the office each week. The Staff Relations Specialist supports a positive, inclusive, and compliant workplace by managing employee relations matters and workplace accommodations. This role oversees accommodation cases from intake through resolution, provides guidance to management, and partners with cross-functional teams to identify practical, compliant solutions that support employees’ needs. The Specialist serves as a subject matter expert on accommodation processes, ensuring consistent application of policies, accurate documentation, and alignment with legal and organizational standards. This role also helps mitigate risk while promoting employee wellbeing and a supportive work environment. In addition, the Specialist supports our employee assistance program, the HELP Fund. You’ll thrive in this position if you are: A problem-solver: You can analyze complex employee relations issues and recommend effective resolutions. Detail-oriented: You ensure investigations and case management are thorough, well-documented, and compliant with policies and laws. An excellent communicator: You provide clear guidance to managers, influence without authority, and navigate sensitive conversations with discretion and empathy. A culture champion: You embody and promote company values, fostering a respectful and engaging workplace. Adaptable: You thrive in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities while maintaining high standards.

Requirements

3+ years of progressive HR experience with a strong focus on Employee Relations and ADA/interactive process
Working knowledge of state and federal employment laws with ability to ensure compliance and mitigate risk
Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills with the ability to manage complex cases
Effective communicator with the ability to influence and build relationships across all levels
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Sound judgment and discretion in handling sensitive and complex situations
Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and documentation accuracy
High level of professionalism, empathy, and interpersonal effectiveness
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
Experience developing reports, presentations, and program insights
Bilingual (Spanish/English)
PHR/SPHR certification
Experience in restaurant, retail, or hospitality HR, understanding industry-specific challenges

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end accommodation program, including policy ownership
Review cases and provide determinations aligned with ADA regulations
Partner with Operations on accommodations and return-to-work planning
Serve as primary contact for accommodation requests, ensuring a compliant interactive process
Review medical documentation (HIPAA-compliant) and communicate restrictions and options
Collaborate with Legal, Benefits, and Risk Services on complex cases
Track and follow up on accommodations to ensure effectiveness
Maintain accurate, confidential case documentation
Train and advise leaders on ADA requirements and best practices
Oversee program operations, including vendor/fiscal sponsor coordination
Support employees with empathy and guidance during difficult situations
Manage application flow and recommendations to the committee
Ensure timely, consistent, and compassionate decision-making
Prepare quarterly reports, analysis, and projections for leadership
Drive annual program goals and initiatives
Advise employees and managers on policies, leave, and accommodations
Assist in developing and updating procedures, tools, and resources
Support team projects, reporting, and compliance efforts