Senior Employee Relations Partner role focused on leading complex, high-risk employee relations cases and investigations, while advising leaders to drive fair, consistent outcomes. TRC Talent Solutions is hiring an onsite HR expert in Columbia, SC to strengthen ER practices, mitigate risk, and build leader capability. Standout perk: senior-level strategic influence as the escalation point for ER matters.
- Lead complex, high-risk investigations
- Strategic advisor to business leaders
- Drive ER process and policy improvements
JOB TITLE: Sr. Employee Relations Partner
JOB CODE: HRS152
PAY GRADE: A-14
STATUS: Exempt
LAST UPDATED: 05/27/2026
POSITION SUMMARY
The Sr. Employee Relations Partner serves as a strategic advisor and lead investigator for complex and high-risk employee relations matters. This role uses expert judgment to resolve sensitive issues, ensure consistent and defensible outcomes, and strengthen organizational practices. The position also identifies trends, mitigates risk, and enhances leader capability to proactively address workplace concerns.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Employee Relations & Investigations
Lead end-to-end resolution of complex and high-impact employee relations cases.
Conduct investigations by analyzing information, determining facts, and assessing risk.
Apply policies, procedures, and regulatory standards to ensure fair, consistent outcomes.
Communicate findings and recommendations clearly to stakeholders at all levels.
Strategic Advisory & Leadership Support
Partner with leaders to address sensitive employee issues while balancing business needs and risk.
Serve as a subject matter expert and escalation point for HR and ER partners.
Provide recommendations, risk assessments, and decision-making guidance.
Coach leaders on best practices in employee relations and conflict management.
Process Improvement & Risk Management
Identify trends and systemic risks across cases and recommend proactive solutions.
Improve employee relations frameworks, policies, and processes.
Support development of training and resources to improve consistency and effectiveness.
Collaborate cross-functionally to promote a compliant and positive work environment.
General Responsibilities
Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.
Maintain current knowledge of HR practices, policies, and industry trends.
Ensure confidentiality and proper handling of sensitive information.
Support organizational risk management by identifying and reporting issues, maintaining documentation, and ensuring compliance with policies and procedures.
CORE PRINCIPLES
Collaboration: Work together inclusively to achieve shared goals.
Customer Focus: Prioritize decisions that best serve stakeholders.
Continuous Improvement: Drive efficiency and challenge existing processes.
Innovation: Embrace change and encourage new ideas.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field (required)
Master’s degree (preferred)
Experience
4–6 years of experience in employee relations, investigations, or HR
Proven ability to independently manage complex, sensitive cases
Skills & Competencies
Strong critical thinking and sound judgment
Advanced investigative and conflict resolution skills
Ability to assess risk and balance fairness with business impact
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
High level of discretion and professionalism
