Description

The Associate Relations Specialist is responsible for fostering a positive, respectful, and legally compliant work environment by managing associate relations matters, providing guidance to leaders, and ensuring consistent application of company policies and employment practices, across all Piping Rock locations. This role partners closely with leadership, Human Resources, and Legal departments to resolve workplace concerns, conduct investigations, mitigate risk, and promote associate engagement while supporting business objectives.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a partner to local HR on associate relations issues across the organization, while ensuring consistent application of company policies, employment practices, and applicable employment laws.
• Guide managers and HR business partners on matters relating to associate performance, conduct, disciplinary actions, conflict resolution, and policy interpretation.
• Work closely with the HR team as they conduct prompt, thorough, and impartial investigations into workplace complaints, including allegations of harassment, discrimination, retaliation, policy violations, and other associate concerns.
• Oversee the preparation of investigation documentation, findings, and recommendations while maintaining confidentiality.
• Partner with HR leadership and/or Legal Counsel on complex associate relations matters and litigation support as needed.
• Coach managers on effective leadership practices, difficult conversations, documentation, and performance management.
• Develop and implement associate relations strategies that promote associate engagement, retention, and a respectful workplace culture.
• Analyze associate relations trends and recommend proactive solutions to promote overall associate satisfaction.
• Assist in developing and revising HR policies, procedures, and associate communications.
• Support organizational changes and other workforce initiatives.
• Participate in unemployment hearings, agency responses, and other employment-related proceedings when necessary.
• Design and deliver training on workplace conduct, respectful workplace expectations, investigations, performance management, and compliance topics.
• Collaborate with all HR functions to ensure consistent and positive associate experiences.
• Maintain accurate records and confidential documentation in accordance with company standards and legal requirements.
• Perform other human resources related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bilingual fluency in English/Spanish is required.
• Ability to work on-site in our Long Island offices.
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Labor Relations, or a related field required.
• 7+ years of progressive Human Resources experience.
• 5+ years of dedicated associate relations experience.
• Previous experience conducting complex workplace investigations required.
• Manufacturing or multi-site experience preferred.
• Thorough knowledge of employment laws.
• Strong investigative interviewing and analytical skills.
• Excellent conflict resolution and mediation abilities.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain strict confidentiality.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build trust and influence leaders at all organizational levels.
• Exceptional documentation and organizational skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with HRIS systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to travel out of state occasionally.
• Flexibility to support 2nd and 3rd shift as needed, on occasion.