Our client, who is a global biotechnology company, is currently seeking a hybrid Sr. Employee Relations Specialist in Kankakee IL.

Onsite/Remote: Hybrid

Pay Rate: $40.00-$50.00/hour, depending on experience

Duration: 9 Months

Job Description:

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Employee Relations Specialist to manage moderately complex employee relations (ER) cases. This role involves conducting investigations, advising leadership, and ensuring compliance with employment laws and company policies. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in employee relations, labor relations, conflict resolution, and will thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Strong preference will be given to candidates with union experience.

Employee & Labor Relations

* Conduct confidential investigations into misconduct, including harassment, discrimination, and policy violations.

* Manage Compliance Hotline/Speak Up cases through resolution and document outcomes.

* Facilitate terminations, including drafting letters, conducting meetings, and maintaining documentation.

* Provide guidance to managers on employee relations best practices and fair treatment.

* Influence and coach leaders through sensitive employee situations.

* Partner with legal counsel and HR Business Partners to mitigate risk and ensure compliance.

* Interpret and apply company policies and collective bargaining agreements.

* Support unionized environments by resolving grievances and participating in arbitrations.

* Build positive relationships with employees, union representatives, and Works Councils.

Medical Accommodations

* Manage the medical accommodation process in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

* Facilitate interactive discussions with HR and medical experts.

* Advocate for employees while balancing business needs and CSL values..

Corrective Action & Performance Management

* Educate leaders on corrective action processes and SMART objectives.

* Advise on performance issues and support development of performance improvement plans.

* Promote a culture of high performance and engagement.

Training & Program Development

* Collaborate with the Learning department to develop and deliver ER-related training.

* Participate in the creation and implementation of ER programs and initiatives.

* Lead or contribute to special HR/ER projects, ensuring timely and effective delivery.

Qualifications:

* Bachelor's degree in human resources, Organizational Psychology, Business, or related field.

* 5-7 years of experience in employee relations, with a strong focus on investigations.

* In-depth knowledge of employment laws and HR compliance requirements.

* Experience using HRIS and case management systems.

* High level of discretion and ability to handle confidential information.

* Ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders.

* able to work onsite 3 days/week.

Preferred:

* Experience in unionized environments and labor relations.

* SHRM certification (SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP).

* Bilingual in English and Spanish.

* Experience supporting multiple locations and working in a global, matrixed organization.

* Experience supporting unionized environments and large non-exempt populations (strongly preferred).

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance. For unincorporated Los Angeles county, to the extent our customers require a background check for certain positions, the Company faces a significant risk to its business operations and business reputation unless a review of criminal history is conducted for those specific job positions.