We are looking for an Employment Specialist passionate about impacting a diverse portfolio of companies through strategic partnership with Human Resources.  You will be a member of the Labor & Employment pod within Hearst’s Office of General Counsel and will help ensure Hearst fosters a work environment that is consistent with its values.  This includes, but is not limited to:

Investigations

Serve as an escalation point for HR colleagues investigating alleged violations of policies and laws as well as grievances, including but not limited to harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and bullying, to ensure investigations of employee complaints are prompt, impartial, and thorough. Review drafts of HR investigation reports to ensure thoroughness of fact gathering and investigation findings. Conduct investigations and draft investigation reports, as needed. Analyze data to identify and assess potential trends that may require attention or offer an opportunity for preventative action.

Accommodations

Serve as the first point of contact for HR colleagues on proposed denials of accommodation requests. Partner with HR on evaluating accommodation requests prior to denial to ensure effective alternative accommodations have been explored and evaluate whether such requests would pose an undue hardship to the business.    Revise draft accommodation denial letters, as needed, for attorney review.

Performance Management

Serve as the first point of contact for HR colleagues on termination requests, ensuring such requests are supported by legitimate business reasons and relevant documentation.

Legal Updates and Compliance 

Monitor new laws, agency guidance, and court decisions relating to labor and employment and prepare regular updates to HR and other business stakeholders.  Assist with research relating to areas of employment law, particularly in the advice and counseling context.  Coordinate with our business units to ensure labor and employment law updates are implemented.  Other projects and assignments as determined by OGC leadership. 

Employee Classification

Assist in review and determination of worker classification pursuant to the FLSA and relevant laws. 

Minimum Qualifications

3+ years of experience in employee relations or employment law. Demonstrated experience conducting investigations and drafting investigation reports. Experience in performance management. Knowledge of employment and labor laws and best practices.  Experience with labor law and unions a plus.  Strong written and verbal communication skills. Effective interpersonal and relationship-building skills. Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects.

In accordance with applicable law, Hearst is required to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role since it is based in New York City.  The reasonable estimate for candidates is $85,000 to $125,000.  A final decision on the successful candidate’s starting salary will be based on a number of permissible, non-discriminatory factors, including but not limited to skills and experience, training, certifications, and education.  Hearst provides a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, 401(k), paid holidays and paid time off, employee assistance programs, and more.