EMPLOYEE & LABOR RELATIONS SPECIALIST

Whitman-Walker Health
60000.00 To 70000.00 (USD) Annually
United States, D.C., Washington
1201 Sycamore Dr SE (Show on map)
Jan 25, 2025
Job Summary Whitman-Walker (WW) seeks a skilled and compassionate Employee & Labor Relations Specialist to join our Human Resources team. In this critical role, you will serve as the primary point of contact for employee and labor relations matters and oversee the administration of our comprehensive leave programs (FMLA, STD, LTD, medical accommodations, etc.). The ideal candidate will have a strong background in employee relations, labor laws, and leave administration, combined with a deep commitment to health equity and creating a respectful, affirming workplace environment. This role reports to the Vice President, People Operations, or designee. Role Specific Primary Essential Duties: Employee & Labor Relations Act as the initial liaison for intake and assessment of employee complaints and investigations, conducting preliminary interviews and gathering necessary information. Collect and analyze data to evaluate the cost, policy implications, and outcomes of negotiations or disputes, including pay scales, benefits, and working conditions. Maintain strong working knowledge of labor laws and regulations, including EEO, affirmative action, collective bargaining, and union practices, ensuring compliance in all areas. Serve as the primary point of contact for routine labor relations and HR inquiries, including policies, procedures, and bargaining agreements; escalate complex matters to management as needed. Labor Relations Administration Conduct surveys, interviews, and research related to HR policies, compensation, and labor negotiations, and present findings and recommendations to leadership. Assist with drafting and maintaining key documentation, including EEO-1 reports, affirmative action plans, labor agreements, and employee handbooks. Support contract negotiations by preparing required documentation and assisting with meeting facilitation and logistics. Build and maintain relationships with union delegates and representatives to address grievances and foster positive working relationships. Leave Administration Advise employees and managers on the organization's leave programs, including parental, medical, disability, military, or unpaid leave. Analyze leave claims to determine eligibility in collaboration with third-party leave brokers. Guide employees through the leave process, ensuring understanding of benefits and return-to-service protocols. Manage leave records, process adjustments in HRIS/payroll systems, and oversee employee separations, including conducting exit interviews and notifying internal stakeholders. General Responsibilities Contribute to HR functional areas, including recruitment, training, and development related to the unionized workforce. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with organizational policies and labor agreements. Support special projects and initiatives as assigned by leadership Qualifications Education & Experience Bachelor's or Master's degree in human resources, 5 years of work experience in the human resources field, or a combination of equivalent education and experience. Professional certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP) from HRCI or SHRM is preferred. Experience working in a Federal Qualified Health Center (FQHC), or related healthcare environment required. Experience working with members of the LGBTQ+ community preferred. Extensive experience with leave administration, including FMLA, STD, LTD, and medical accommodations. Skills & Competencies Strong knowledge of labor laws, collective bargaining, and employee relations practices. Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and provide actionable insights. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Human Capital Management Systems. Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills to manage competing priorities. Ability to maintain confidentiality, exercise discretion, and handle sensitive issues with empathy and professionalism. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.