Director of Employee Relations

The Director of Employee Relations is responsible for leading employee relations efforts, supporting culture-building initiatives, coordinating training and development programs, and overseeing FMLA, ADA, and employment law compliance. Key responsibilities include monitoring employment practices for fairness and adherence to federal and state regulations, as well as College policies and procedures. The Director also provides guidance to employees and supervisors on workplace issues. Additionally, this role serves as the backup leadership support in the absence of the Vice President for People & Culture.

Full-time Employee Benefits include: medical and dental insurances, retirement plans, paid time off, educational benefits for employees and dependents at Penn College and Penn State University, and more. For additional information, click here.

EDUCATION

• Bachelor's Degree preferably in Human Resources or Employee Relations, Labor Relations, Business Management, or related discipline. Required
• Master's Degree preferably in Human Resources or Employee Relations, Labor Relations, Business Management, or related discipline. Preferred

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Professional in Human Resources (PHR)-HRCI Certification as a Professional in Human Resources (PHR or SPHR). Preferred

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of five (5) years of professional or managerial experience in Human Resources, demonstrating comprehensive knowledge of HR operations and effective functional management. Required
• Proven experience in designing and delivering training programs on Human Resources and leadership-related topics. Required
• Demonstrated leadership experience within Human Resources, including strategic oversight and team management. Required

ABILITIES AND SKILLS

• Proven managerial abilities. Required
• Interpersonal skills necessary to deal effectively and courteously with executives, supervisors, faculty, staff, and the public. Required
• Effective oral and written communication skills. Required
• Sensitivity to the needs and concerns of all employees and employee groups. Required
• Ability to analyze complex situations and make decisions quickly and consistently after weighing all factors. Required
• Self starter who can work independently. Required
• Functional ability with microcomputer with mainframe applications. Required
• Possession of a valid driver's license. Required

• Employee Relations Strategy & Support
  • Lead employee relations programs across the College.
  • Provide guidance to managers and supervisors on employee concerns, performance issues, and workplace conflicts.
  • Serve as a resource for employees navigating workplace challenges and disputes.
• Engagement & Culture
  • Promote employee engagement and workplace satisfaction.
  • Support department’s in evaluating their culture and recommend strategies for improvement.
  • Support initiatives that foster a respectful, inclusive, and productive work environment.
• Training & Development
  • Identify training and development needs that align with the College’s Strategic Plan and determine the most suitable individuals or platforms to deliver the content effectively.
  • Support departments in evaluating their training and development needs and recommend relevant offerings for their consideration.
  • Assess current and future training requirements across the College and identify suitable external presenters or online learning solutions.
  • Design and deliver training sessions focused on position-specific responsibilities and compliance-related topics.
• Workplace Compliance
  • Serve as a member of the College’s Title IX team, supporting matters related to Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, and Section 504/ADA.
  • Conduct fact-finding investigations into discrimination, harassment, and related complaints, independently or in collaboration with team members.
  • Guide employees and supervisors toward prompt and equitable resolution of concerns.
  • Oversee employee disability accommodation requests and the College’s leave of absence process, including FMLA.
  • Monitor employment activity to ensure fairness and compliance with federal and state laws, as well as College policies and procedures.
  • Ensure employee understanding and adherence to the College’s Drug and Alcohol-Free Work Environment expectations.
  • Oversee compliance with the Pennsylvania Child Protective Services Law for employees responsible for the care of or routine contact with children.
  • Manage compliance with DOT regulations for CDL employees.
• Performance Management
  • Manage the annual performance evaluation process.
  • Coach supervisors on effective performance feedback and documentation.
  • Provide consultation on disciplinary documentation, performance improvement plans, and termination recommendations.
• Leadership Support
  • Serve as a strategic advisor to senior leadership on HR and employee relations matters.
  • Act as a backup or delegate for the Vice President for People & Culture during their absence.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Supervise assigned staff.
• Participate actively on College committees as assigned.
• Maintain the security and confidentiality of personnel files and regulate access to personnel information.
• Assist in maintaining accurate and current College policies and procedures.
• Lead or contribute to related projects as needed.
• Stay informed of changes in federal and state employment regulations through professional development and networking.
• Keep the Vice President informed of sensitive matters and seek approval before taking action on precedent-setting issues.

None

This is not a complete itemization of all facets of this position. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. The College has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without prior notice.

Penn College is committed to equal opportunity and the diversity of its workforce.

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