Sr. Employee Relations Consultant
: Job Details :

The Department of Employee Relations, a unit within the division of University Human Resources (UHR) at NC State University, administers programs for and provides employee relations leadership and consultation to a broad range of university administrators, managers, faculty, and staff in support ofa positive and productive work environment. Employee Relations is dedicated to providing high quality and responsive workplace solutions to address issues related to individual employment, organizational effectiveness and the university work environment. As a member of the Employee Relations team, you will provide an equitable approach to resolving workplace concerns, helping to mitigate risk to the University.Employee Relations collaborates closely with campus units and partners on a variety of faculty and staff relations issues. Employee Relations partners include but are not limited to: Office of General Counsel, Faculty and Staff Ombuds Office, Office of Equal Opportunity, Risk Management, and Environmental Health and Public Safety (including Police), as well as governance committees such as the faculty and staff senates.Programs and services provided by the Employee Relations Office include but are not limited to: managing the University's Employee Assistance Program available to all university employees and their families; administering the dispute resolution and staff grievance procedure; administering relevant human resources policy development; leading the performance management programs for SHRA and EPS employees; coordinating the unemployment insurance reporting and appeal program; managing mediation & facilitation programs; and managing the Exit Interview program, and helping to drive employee engagement initiatives.This position may be eligible for flexible work arrangements but will require regular work on campus in Raleigh, NC.Essential Job DutiesThe Sr. Consultant acts as an advanced strategic advisor to staff, faculty, post doctoral scholars, and administrators supporting an engaged work environment and preventing workplace issues from escalating into grievances or legal matters. In this role, you'll navigate highly complex employment matters with expertise, helping to shape a positive and productive work environment. You'll empower leaders to make informed decisions, foster trust, and enhance morale, all while driving compliance and mitigating institutional risk.Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:Strategic Consultation* Partner with staff, faculty, and administrators to resolve workplace challenges and mitigate risks, ensuring compliance with federal, state, university, and employment regulations.Conflict Resolution* Analyze complex and sensitive situations to uncover root causes and develop effective action plans. Provide expertise in handling performance concerns, corrective actions, and disciplinary matters.Training & Capacity Building* Design and deliver training on employee relations topics, including issue identification, just-in-time remediation, and performance management, empowering managers and teams to navigate challenges confidently.*Program Oversight* Lead and contribute to initiatives in performance management, employee engagement, grievance handling, facilitation/mediation, and corrective actions, tailoring programs to meet organizational needs.Investigations & Mediation* Conduct thorough investigations of workplace incidents, facilitate grievance processes, and provide guidance to ensure fair and timely outcomes. Offer informal or formal facilitation strategies to resolve disputes effectively.Trend Analysis & Insights* Use case management tools and data analytics to identify trends, recommend process improvements, and inform leaders with actionable insights to enhance workplace culture and performance.If you are a seasoned employee relations professional eager to make a significant impact and thrive at the forefront of fostering an engaged and collaborative workforce, then You Belong Here!At NC State, our goal is for all employees to reach their fullest potential at work. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition ( and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.Other ResponsibilitiesIn addition to the core responsibilities, you may be assigned other duties that provide opportunities to take on stretch goals, expand your skill set, and contribute to high-impact initiatives.QualificationsMinimum Education and ExperienceGraduation from a four-year college or university and two years of progressively responsible experience analyzing, interpreting, applying, communicating, and promoting HR best practices in the context of organizational goals and objectives; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Degrees must be from appropriately accredited institutions.Other Required Qualifications* Demonstrated ability to interpret and clearly communicate federal, state, and institutional regulations, policies, and procedures to diverse audiences across all levels of the University.* Proven experience managing complex and sensitive employee relations issues, including conducting thorough workplace investigations.* Deep understanding of legal implications related to workplace actions and their potential impact on the University's interests.* Demonstrated expertise in employee relations with a history of achieving positive, measurable outcomes.* Exceptional leadership and engagement skills paired with a collaborative approach to team and program development.* Ability to provide impactful advice and coaching to employees and managers to navigate workplace challenges effectively.* Strong interpersonal, critical thinking, and organizational skills to manage varied and programmatic responsibilities.* Demonstrated discretion and diplomacy, with the ability to maintain confidentiality in sensitive situations.* Highly skilled in written, verbal, and non-verbal communication.* Proven ability to assess and resolve complex workplace situations with sound judgment and advise senior leadership with confidence.* Advanced conflict resolution, mediation, and facilitation skills to foster constructive outcomes.* Capability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.* Experience in leading programs, projects, and teams with a focus on achieving strategic objectives.* Ability to design, implement, and conduct impactful training and educational programsPreferred Qualifications* Progressive responsibility and direct experience in Employee Relations, including consultation, coaching, and conducting workplace investigations.* Previous experience as an HR Generalist or HR Business Partner is advantageous.* Experience in higher education or state government is preferred but not required.* Background in HR project management and program implementation is beneficial.Required License(s) or Certification(s)N/AValid NC Driver's License required No Commercial Driver's License required No