Human Resources Employee Relations Specialist

Alcanza is a growing multi-site, multi-phase clinical research company with a network of locations in AL, AZ, FL, GA, IL, MA, MI, MO, NV, VA, SC, TN, TX and Puerto Rico. We have established a strong presence across Phase I-IV studies and several therapeutic areas including vaccine, neurology, dermatology, psychiatry, and general medicine. Join us as we continue to grow. The Employee Relations Specialist partners with managers and the Human Resources team to address and resolve employee relations matters, ensuring equitable and consistent treatment for all employees in alignment with the company's policies, procedures, and state and federal laws (to include within the United States and Puerto Rico). The Employee Relations Specialist supports managers with performance conversations, performance documentation, and terminations, and provides guidance throughout the discipline process. Key Responsibilities Essential Job Duties: Manage employee relations activities, provide guidance on efficient methods to resolve employee relations issues, and formulate corrective action recommendations following the company’s discipline process, to ensure consistent, compliant resolution of employee issues. Conduct meetings with employees and/or managers to identify concerns or complaints related to workplace behavior, performance issues, policy violations, harassment, and other topics. Provide coaching and training to managers on documentation, performance conversations, corrective action, workplace expectations, and effective employee communication. Maintain accurate, confidential, and well-organized employee relations documentation, including investigation notes, case summaries, findings, recommendations, and follow-up actions. Identify employee relations trends, recurring workplace concerns, and potential risk areas; recommend proactive strategies, training, or policy updates to address root causes. Ensure compliance with applicable provisions of federal and state labor laws, including the maintenance of necessary files and filing of annual requirements (EEO, benefits, etc.). Ensures all records, logs and files are maintained to meet regulatory requirements and corporate policies. Escalate issues that meet predefined criteria, exercising judgment to assess risk and sensitivity levels. Assist with monitoring and follow up on new hire performance (training plan status, performance concerns identified, etc.) and work with and support managers as needed. May also assist managers with 90-day, mid year and annual reviews as well as with the goal setting process. Assist with ongoing training on HR policies, and expectations, and other related areas. Assist the HR team with unemployment claims and hearings. Employ problem-solving skills to propose and implement risk mitigations as well as improved performance. Develop and maintain excellent working relationships with managers and external clients to understand and meet their needs in line with company policies and procedures. Maintain a positive, results-oriented work environment, build partnerships within the team and across the organization at large, and model teamwork. Ensure employee relations practices are handled with discretion, professionalism, empathy, and respect for confidentiality. Participate, lead, and/or present in team, department, management, or other meetings. May also support broader HR projects and initiatives. Perform all other duties that may be requested or assigned. Skills, Knowledge and Expertise Minimum Qualifications : A bachelor’s degree in human resources, psychology, business, or related field and 3+ years of Human Resource experience, OR an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. 1+ years’ experience in a high-volume Employee Relations function, is required. Must have strong knowledge of employment laws, including Title VII. Experience in healthcare or clinical research is preferred. A professional HR certification (PHR, SHRM-CP, etc) is preferred. Required Skills: Proficiency with computer applications such as Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, PP, Teams, Sharepoint), web applications, and the ability to type proficiently (40+ wpm) Basic math proficiency and strong attention to detail. Strong organizational, time management, problem solving, and project management skills to meet firm deadlines. Well-developed written and verbal communication skills. Ability to effectively handle multiple tasks and adapt to changes in workloads and priorities. Must possess a high degree of professionalism, integrity, dependability, respect of others, self-motivation, and exemplify a strong work ethic. Well-developed interpersonal and listening skills and the ability to work well independently and collaboratively within a team environment, building trusted relationships with team, co-workers, managers, and external customers. Ability to work under minimal supervision, identify problems and implement solutions. Ability to handle highly sensitive information in a confidential and professional manner, and in compliance with privacy and company guidelines. Benefits Full-time employees regularly scheduled to work at least 30 hours per week are benefits-eligible, with coverage starting on the first day of the month following date of hire. Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability insurance, health savings accounts, supplemental insurances, and a 401k plan with a safe harbor match are offered.