Manager, Employee Relations

What we do: 

We are seeking a strategic Manager, Employee Relations to lead our employee relations function within a dynamic engineering environment. This role will provide strategic guidance to leadership, oversee high-risk and complex employee relations matters, and drive proactive employee engagement and retention strategies. The Employee Relations Manager will work collaboratively with HR and business leaders to build a culture of trust, transparency, and accountability. This role is responsible for managing complex workplace investigations, including maintaining a robust case management system, ensuring compliance with employment laws, and developing tailored performance management training programs.

What you can do:

Investigations & Case Management

• Lead and conduct thorough, impartial investigations into employee complaints and alleged misconduct and policy violations
• Advise management on corrective actions, progressive discipline, and performance improvement plans
• Update and maintain a secure case management system to track and monitor investigations, outcomes, and trends, and recommend data-driven mitigation strategies
• Collaborate with Legal and Compliance teams on complex and high-risk cases; prepare and maintain proper documentation to comply with regulatory and organizational standards

Performance Management & Training

• Collaborate with Talent Management (and Legal, as appropriate) to develop and deliver training programs for managers focused on employee relations best practices, employment law compliance, and effective leadership strategies
• Analyze performance trends and recommend interventions to improve team effectiveness and engagement
• May manage and develop a team of Employee Relations professionals, providing coaching, mentorship, and guidance to drive professional growth and operational excellence
• Develop, enhance and implement HR policies and programs in alignment with company values and evolving legal requirements

Legal Compliance

• Monitor and interpret applicable federal, state, and local labor laws, ensuring company policies and practices remain consistent and compliant
• Advise HR and leadership on legal risks and mitigation strategies related to employee relations matters
• In partnership with Legal and Compliance teams, support audits and legal inquiries by providing accurate records and expert guidance

Culture & Engagement

• Serve as a trusted advisor to employees and managers, promoting a culture of transparency, fairness, and accountability
• Identify systemic issues and recommend policy or cultural changes to improve employee experience
• Develop and support inclusive and equitable employee relations practices

What you can contribute:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred
• A minimum of eight (8) years of experience in employee relations, including a minimum of two (2) years supporting technical or engineering teams
• SPHR-CA, PHR-CA, SHRM-SCP, or SHRM-CP certification preferred
• Strong knowledge of U.S. labor and employment laws and regulations, especially California
• Experience building or managing scalable case management systems
• Proven ability to develop and deliver training programs, especially performance management
• Exceptional communication, conflict resolution, negotiation and analytical skills
• Familiarity with engineering workflows, team structures, and performance metrics
• Ability to navigate ambiguity and influence across technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written