Employee Relations Consultant

Job Description Summary

Ensures that human resource and employee relations practices are consistent and in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Conducts investigations, writes and presents reports to appropriate parties. Assists in the development and implementation of policies. Provides training and counsel to University leadership in regard to performance management and corrective action. Contributes to the University’s annual worker’s compensation audit, conducts American with Disability Act (ADA) accommodation reviews and supports the handling, filing and management of worker’s compensation claims. **

Essential Functions And Responsibilities**

• Ensures understanding and compliance in all federal, state and local laws pertaining to Equal Employment Opportunity, through investigations, recommendations for discipline, mediations, training and action planning.
• Investigates, advises and makes recommendations on internal claims of discrimination, harassment/hostile work environment and/or retaliation or conduct in the workplace which violates University policies/procedures, State or Federal laws or accepted manor of conduct.
• Writes comprehensive, factual reports of findings resulting from assigned investigations for use in decision-making.
• Meets with the Director of Employee Relations and Talent Management and/or management to discuss investigation summary, outcomes and recommended action related to employee complaint.
• Assists agency management in resolving or preventing negative workplace conflicts, grievances and disagreements by creating action plans to address problem areas where disparate treatment/impact is identified.
• Presents investigation findings to department leaders to assist in identifying acceptable solutions.
• Trains multiple groups of employees/supervisors on EEO policy and law, at hire and throughout their career. Provides training, advice and counsel to supervisors, employees and human resources employees in regard to employee relations’ issues.
• Assists development and implementation of policies, reporting procedures and administrative guidelines.
• Review exit interviews/data, summarize findings, and discuss trends and concerns with senior management.
• Works independently to interview personnel involved, secure resources and gather information related to the issue being evaluated and/or analyzed.
• Evaluates problem areas and uses available information to develop recommendations.
• Provides lead role for all ADA & FMLA matters including but not limited to the training and coaching of management as well as to ensure compliance with University forms and procedures.
• Process worker’s compensation claims promptly and accurately.
• Work closely with Managers and Supervisors to identify accident causes, fill out the required paperwork, and brainstorm solution that would prevent future accidents
• Reply to all employee questions and inquiries regarding their claims
• Manage communications with insurance providers
• Train Managers and Supervisors on how to process workers’ compensation claims
• Manage a database of the common injuries that employees experience in the workplace
• Keep and prepare summaries of witness statements and medical reports
• Strictly adheres to Liberty University policies, representing the University in an exemplary manner.
• Works effectively as a team member, embracing and fostering LU’s mission.
• All other duties assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position is a non-supervisory role. **

Qualifications And Credentials**

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in human resources or related field.
• Five years of related experience in an employee relations or workplace investigation environment.
• SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) credential preferred.
• Two years of related experience in safety administration preferred.
• Knowledge and experience with federal & state employment law
• Knowledge and experience in administration of ADA, FMLA, USERRA etc. preferred.

ABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL TO THE FUNCTION OF THE JOB

Communication and Comprehension

• Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing to convey clear, well articulated information.
• Ability to understand, speak, and write English in order to convey messages and correspond in an articulate and professional manner.
• Possess public communication skills that allow professional representation of Liberty University to a variety of business, government and community customers and associates.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Computer and scheduling skills.

Problem Solving

• Intuitively able to reason, analyze information and events, and apply judgment in order to solve problems of both a routine and complex nature.

Physical and Sensory Abilities

• Required to travel to local and campus locations.
• May be required to sit to perform deskwork or type on a keyboard.
• Regularly required to hear and speak in order to effectively communicate orally.
• Regularly required to stand, walk, and climb stairs to move about the campus.
• Handle materials, reach overhead, kneel or stoop in order to conduct business.
• Regularly lift 10 or fewer pounds.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work Environment

The working environment in which one will typically perform the essential functions of this position is a climate-controlled setting. It is well lighted and the noise level is moderate. Working environment also includes facilitation of events outdoors occasionally.

Driving Requirements

Use of one’s personal vehicle (or LU vehicles) may be required for travel in the performance of the essential functions of this position. Proof of a valid Virginia driver’s license, an acceptable DMV record, and liability insurance is required.

Disclaimer Liberty University’s hiring practices and EEO Statement are fully in compliance with both federal and state law. Federal law creates an exception to the “religion” component of the employment discrimination laws for religious organizations (including educational institutions), and permits them to give employment preference to members of their own religion. Liberty University is in that category.