Description
Summary
The Human Resources Manager (Engagement and Employee Relations) plays a key role in advancing employee engagement and employee relations, supporting the agency’s strategic goal to invest in talent and foster an inclusive, high-performing workplace.
This position partners with leaders and employees to support effective workplace solutions, strengthen collaboration, and promote a positive culture. The Manager develops tools, training, and policies that enhance engagement, support conflict resolution, and build leadership capability. By drawing on employee feedback, workplace trends, and insights such as engagement surveys, exit interviews, and retention data, the role leads efforts to improve employee satisfaction, retention, and workplace practices, making this a meaningful opportunity to influence culture and advance organizational success.
Valley Metro is a Drug Free Workplace and an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Requirements
Minimum Qualifications & Requirements
Education & Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Labor Relations, Business or Public Administration, or related field; master’s degree preferred.
Minimum of 5 years of full-time professional Human Resources experience with direct supervisory responsibility in employee relations. Proven expertise in managing workplace investigations, conflict resolution, coaching managers on complex personnel matters, and leading employee engagement initiatives that enhance morale and retention.
Additional training or certifications in employment law a plus.
Experienced in designing and evaluating engagement programs that improve culture, retention, and satisfaction, using data to guide improvements.
Strong written and verbal communication skills; skilled in creating clear policies, reports, and training materials.
Proven ability to handle sensitive employee relations issues with professionalism, confidentiality, and sound judgment, providing actionable recommendations aligned with organizational goals.
License/Certification:
Certifications in Employee Relations such as SHRM Employee Relations Specialty Credential or HRCI Employee Relations Strategic Certification, are highly desirable.
Valid Arizona driver’s license and safe driving record.
Background Investigation:
Employment is contingent upon the results of a background check.
Human Resources reserves the right to call only the most qualified applicants to the selection process.
Examples of Duties / Knowledge & Skills
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (The statements listed below describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time.)
Builds strong partnerships with managers and supports employees by providing guidance on workplace issues and ensuring consistent application of policies and best practices.
Supervises staff through effective leadership; assigns and evaluates work, develops talent, and promotes a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Designs and implements tools, resources, and training that empower managers to address workplace issues and promote a positive, inclusive culture.
Analyzes workplace trends, employee feedback, and key metrics (e.g., surveys, reports, and KPIs) to proactively address root causes and provide actionable insights to leadership.
Leads complex employee relations investigations, facilitates conflict resolution, ensures legal and policy compliance, and maintains accurate documentation of cases and outcomes.
Develops and updates HR policies and procedures to reflect best practices and regulatory changes.
Ensures compliance with all legal requirements, FTA program guidelines, the Drug & Alcohol Program, and Drug-Free Workplace policies, and monitors the timely completion of mandatory safety and compliance training.
Partners with Learning & Development to create and deliver training that strengthens employee relations, engagement, and inclusive leadership skills.
Guides leaders and employees through organizational changes with a focus on resilience, adaptability, and successful adoption of new processes.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Knowledge of best practices in employee engagement, culture, morale, and retention strategies.
Knowledge of supervisory methods and practices, including work assignment, evaluation, and staff development.
Ability to build teamwork and collaboration while providing clear direction and accountability.
Skill in analyzing employee feedback and trends to address morale, performance, and retention challenges.
Ability to design recognition programs that motivate staff and align with agency values.
Knowledge of fostering positive, inclusive workplace environments and strong employee relations.
Skill in coaching managers on employee relations, performance management, and conflict resolution.
Ability to lead change management efforts, guiding employees and leaders through transitions.
Knowledge of employment laws and compliance practices to mitigate risk.
Skill in conducting fair, thorough employee relations investigations.
Ability to deliver training on respectful workplace practices, conflict management, and employee relations.
High ethical standards and discretion in handling sensitive employee matters.
Physical Demands / Work Environment
This position is primarily based at the maintenance and operations center, with some office work and occasional travel to local worksites and employee activities.
The role may allow a hybrid work schedule, which may not follow a standard 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. workday.
The position requires the ability to use standard office equipment, drive to meetings or worksites, read printed materials and computer screens, and communicate clearly in person or by telephone. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals who require and request them.
Valley Metro promotes a safe and healthy work environment and provides appropriate safety and equipment training for all personnel as required.
