Employee Relations Manager

We are looking for an experienced Employee Relations Manager to support a contract assignment based near Lodi, NJ. This contract position will lead employee relations and training efforts while helping guide day-to-day human resources operations in a complex organizational setting. The role partners with leadership to strengthen workplace practices, promote compliance with employment regulations, and support employees throughout the full employment lifecycle.

Responsibilities:

• Guide employee relations matters by reviewing concerns, leading investigations, and recommending practical resolutions that align with policy and employment law.
• Partner with HR leadership to shape, refine, and communicate workplace policies, procedures, and handbook content to maintain current and compliant practices.
• Serve as a key liaison between staff and leadership, encouraging clear communication and helping address sensitive workplace issues appropriately and confidentially.
• Support performance management activities by advising managers on coaching, corrective action, performance improvement planning, and separation processes.
• Maintain detailed and confidential documentation related to employee relations cases, investigative findings, and recommended next steps.
• Work with legal counsel and senior administrators when needed to manage risk, address potential liability, and ensure appropriate handling of complex employment matters.
• Design, source, and deliver recurring development and workplace training sessions for supervisors and employees.
• Collaborate with leadership on employee engagement initiatives, including surveys, climate feedback efforts, and programs aimed at improving satisfaction and retention.
• Demonstrated experience managing employee relations issues, including workplace investigations and conflict resolution.
• Strong knowledge of labor and employment practices, with the ability to apply federal, state, and local employment law in day-to-day HR decision-making.
• Background supporting performance management processes, including employee counseling, documentation, and corrective action.
• Ability to develop policies, review procedural documentation, and communicate updates clearly to a wide range of stakeholders.
• Experience creating or facilitating training programs related to skill development, workplace conduct, or supervisory practices.
• Strong judgment, discretion, and recordkeeping skills when handling confidential employee matters.
• Effective partnership and communication skills, with the ability to advise leaders and build trust across the organization.