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An employee relations specialist is usually monitors various aspects of employee performance and well-being. This professional also often investigates and coordinates disciplinary actions, claims of discrimination or harassment, and sometimes labor disputes. In small organizations, the employee relations specialist may perform these and a number of other functions, but in a large corporation or government entity, these duties are often performed by an entire department. He or she is typically part of the human resources department, but in some organizations this position is found within the legal department.
One of the most basic employee relations specialist duties is that of liaison. The person in this position typically fields employee complaints or concerns, as well as requests for information, guidance, and counseling. After reviewing the organization's policies and any applicable laws, the specialist will then determine the appropriate course of action. This specialist facilitates communication between employees, management, benefits coordinators, labor unions, mediators, and attorneys. As a liaison, the specialist may also be consulted for clarification of company policies, safety and health programs, and disciplinary actions.
