Employee Relations Specialist

About the Opportunity

Are you passionate about helping people thrive at work? Do you believe that a supportive, connected, and engaging workplace culture can transform how teams perform and grow? We’re looking for an Employee Relations Specialist who is excited to make a meaningful impact on the employee experience, from the moment someone applies to join our team, through their first days on the job, and throughout their professional journey with us.

In this role, you’ll be the go-to resource for staff support and workplace connection, helping team members feel valued, heard, and equipped for success. You’ll also lead key parts of the employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, and staff development, while playing a hands-on role in shaping a positive and inclusive organizational culture.

This is a great opportunity for someone early in their HR career who wants to grow their skills and make a difference. We’ll provide the tools, training, and mentorship you need to build confidence and succeed in this important role.

What you will Do

Champion a Positive Workplace Culture

• Be a trusted resource for employees seeking guidance, support, or solutions.
• Help resolve workplace issues with empathy, fairness, and collaboration.
• Build relationships across the organization to strengthen communication and engagement.
• Support initiatives that celebrate staff contributions and promote a strong sense of community.

Lead Recruitment and Hiring Efforts

• Manage the full recruitment process, from posting job openings to welcoming new hires.
• Partner with hiring managers to ensure a smooth, equitable, and engaging hiring experience.

Create a Welcoming Onboarding Experience

• Design and deliver meaningful onboarding programs that help new team members feel connected and confident.
• Coordinate all steps of the new hire process, from paperwork and background checks to first-week orientation.
• Conduct follow-up check-ins to ensure new employees have the support they need to succeed.

Support Growth and Development

• Help organize learning opportunities, workshops, and training sessions that encourage professional growth.
• Track participation and ensure compliance with required training.

Payroll System Support & Coordination

• Assist with payroll system management, including entering new hire data, updating employee records, and supporting payroll processing in coordination with the finance team.
• Serve as a point of contact for staff payroll-related questions and ensure accurate, timely information within the payroll platform (e.g., Paychex Flex).

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 2–3 years of experience in HR, employee relations, recruitment, or a similar people-focused role (internships and practicums count!).
• Strong communication, listening, and relationship-building skills.
• A natural problem-solver who can handle sensitive situations with care and discretion.
• A team player with a passion for helping others grow and succeed.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and a belief that everyone deserves to feel valued at work.
• Preferred: Experience with payroll and HR information systems, such as Paychex Flex or other workforce management platforms.

Pension plan participation

Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)

Paid time off, including flexible time off, sick leave, and holidays

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid schedule: combination of in-office/telecommuting work in Philadelphia; schedule dependent upon workforce needs.

Supportive, mission-driven work environment