Job Summary

The Associate Relations and Engagement Specialist serves as a proactive, valuable resource to associates and management by formulating partnerships that promote a positive workplace environment through open communication and engagement.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING:

• Assists associates and management to settle work-related issues through advice and recommendations. Recommends solutions when repetition indicates opportunity for change, negative trends and/or challenges.
• Conducts various work-related investigations to include violations of company policies, and/or associate concerns; recommends action/resolution to appropriate member of management. May work with management and/or other departments to facilitate the investigation process. Documents facts, specific, accurate and detailed file information for investigation files; Assists and trains management regarding documentation requirements and processes.
• Drafts or edits written corrective actions for management to ensure consistency and proper approval is obtained. Advises management administering corrective action and participates in discussions when necessary. Reviews and approves management recommendations for terminations and forwards to the appropriate member of senior management for final approval.
• Responds to inquiries regarding policies, procedures, and programs. Assist in developing and implementing personnel policies and procedures. Recommends new approaches, policies, and procedures to effect continual improvements in efficiency of department, policies and services based on information gained through associate feedback, observations, management input and exit interviews.
• Consults and coaches’ managers; regarding problem solving, training and development, and performance feedback. Assists management with the performance appraisal process to ensure effectiveness, compliance, and equity within organization.
• Maintains an open-door policy for colleagues who wish to discuss concerns or raise questions about workplace issues. Counsels colleagues and provides appropriate support and resources, such as Employee Assistance Program (EAP); Participates in facilitating the open-door process for dispute resolution between both associates and management (active or inactive).
• Assists with new associate and new manager orientation and participates in the development of such programs; Writes and delivers training presentations to associates and management regarding company policies and practices.
• Assists Management in monitoring of Associate’s attendance. Works with Benefits to ensure leave programs have been reviewed and/or applied as appropriate. Reviews various time and attendance reports and follows up with Management when necessary, regarding disciplinary actions in accordance with the applicable attendance policy.
• Consistently maintains awareness of current trends, laws and regulations through webinars, classes, reading and other learning mechanisms to maintain and increase knowledge. Participates in human resource professional associations to stay informed and interconnected.
• Builds and maintains effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborates with the team, both departmental and cross-functional teams, to build positive working relationships and establish a high level of trust and credibility throughout the organization.
• Maintains high regard for confidentiality of all Associate records and information security protocols.
• Acts as associate advocate and change agent while supporting leadership/company goals.
• Collaborates with appropriate HR staff to research routine or tactical issues.
• Manages projects and activities as necessary to meet the needs of assigned areas of responsibilities and/or the overall organization.
• Maintains an attitude and philosophy consistent with the company’s standards.

WHAT IS REQUIRED:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources or similar discipline; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum two years’ experience as a Human Resource professional with experience in associate relations, engagement, training and development and/or recruitment.
• Working knowledge of HRIS systems.
• Intermediate skills in Outlook, Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; advanced problem-solving skills; diverse interpersonal skills; detail oriented and analytical; adaptable; and able to listen without interruption.
• Ability to meet conflicting employment guidelines.