Human Resources Spclst V

Job Description:
The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is seeking a highly qualified human resource professional for the position of Human Resources Employee Relations Specialist. Performs advanced (senior-level) human resources (HR) work and is responsible for day to day employee relations (ER) activities for assigned customer areas. Work involves analysis, problem solving, conflict resolution, policy interpretation and providing advice, guidance and consultation to managers and employees with the goal of minimizing legal risk and ensuring compliance with federal and state laws and regulations and Health and Human Services (HHS) HR policy and procedures. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude in the use of initiative and independent judgement.

Essential Job Functions:
Consults, provides guidance and makes recommendations on human resources related issues including, but not limited to, selections, drug testing, background checks, leave issues, workplace violence, conflicts of interest, and/or worker's compensation in accordance with federal and state rules, regulations and statutes and HHS HR policies, procedures and guidelines.

Consults, provides guidance and makes recommendations on corrective and/or disciplinary actions related to employee conduct and/or performance issues.

Consults with the Office of Chief Counsel and Civil Rights on employee relations and human resources matters.

Provides guidance and consultation to agency management and employees on Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) matters to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations and statutes and HHS HR policy.

Develops and conducts training and presentations to managers and employees on HHS HR policies and procedures.

May review criminal history record information obtained from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and Texas Department of Public Safety and provides guidance and employment eligibility determinations to managers for applicants, employees, contractors and volunteers in relation to HHS agency bars to employment and/or contraindications to employment. Consults with agency attorneys as necessary.

Coordinates, completes, and/or monitors certain human resource benefit and compensation actions including death claims, promotions, demotions, temporary assignments, management directed transfers, equity adjustments, merit raises, and reinstatements. Ensures compliance with state and agency eligibility criteria and approvals.

Communicates with managers, employees and/or dependents, Employee Retirement System, third-party insurance carrier, HHS Payroll, Time, Leave and Labor, and HHS Employee Service Center on various human resources-related matters.

May serve as a subject matter expert witness and employer representative in agency unemployment hearings, agency grievance proceedings and external litigation.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of public sector human resources administration.
Knowledge of human resources management principles and practices.
Knowledge of human resources programs such as employment, compensation, classification, employee relations, benefits, workers' compensation and organizational development.
Knowledge of policy and procedure development processes.

Skill in consensus building.
Skill in consultation and negotiation.
Skill in customer service orientation and relationship management.
Skill in analytical thinking.
Skill in providing facilitation and effective consultation to management and staff.
Skill in facilitating large and small group meetings with multiple stakeholders.
Skill in defusing conflict, guiding groups to agreement on decisions and maintaining objectivity.
Skill in Microsoft Office Suite applications.
Skill in interpreting complex human resources policies and procedures.
Skill in the use of computer and human resources-related software applications.

Ability to provide concise, accurate guidance.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
Ability to provide consultation regarding agency policies and procedures to management, staff and the general public.
Ability to assess and balance competing priorities.
Ability to analyze complex data.
Ability to make appropriate decisions independently.
Ability to demonstrate professionalism, confidence and diplomacy.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to identify problems and implement appropriate solutions.
Ability to work independently, exercising sound judgment.
Ability to maintain confidential and sensitive information.

Registration or Licensure Requirements:
N/A

Initial Selection Criteria:
Graduation from a four year college or university with major course work in human resources management, business or public administration, organizational development, or a related field is generally preferred.

Experience may be substituted for education on a year for year basis.

Experience in human resources or closely related field.

Experience interpreting and applying human resources and related policies and procedures to employees, managers and the general public.

Experience advising and counseling management and employees on human resources related issues is preferred

Experience entering, updating, retrieving and analyzing data from automated systems.

Additional Information:
Selected applicant will be required to meet eligibility criteria established by TxDPS to be granted access to Criminal History Record Information.

Salary Note: The salary offered will follow HHSC starting salary guidelines.

Extended hours may be required during times of peak workload and/or to assist with deadlines on critical assignments.

Occasional travel may be required.

MOS Code:
Note: Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to: 42A, YN, 0111, 3A1X1. All active duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor's Military Crosswalk at

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

I-9 Form - Click here to download the I-9 form.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at . If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

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