Senior Employee Relations Specialist

Rumpke is a family‑owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste and recycling industry. Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional waste and recycling solutions to our customers and communities through a commitment to safety, service, the environment and the growth of our people.

When you join Rumpke, you will be part of a team providing essential services to millions of residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. You will enjoy competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, matching 401(k), life insurance, paid vacation, and more.

This is your opportunity to make a difference for you and your family. Come join our team!

The Senior Employee Relations Specialist is responsible for all aspects of employee relations investigations. This person handles the detailed, confidential investigative process from start to finish in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies and procedures. This position partners with the Human Resources Managers and management teams to effectively manage complex employee relations situations. This position involves access to confidential information and requires discretion, attention to detail, and the ability to multi‑task.

• Collaborate with HR Managers and management teams as a strategic partner to understand and manage complex employee relations situations.
• Conduct complex, high‑risk, and time‑sensitive investigations related to employee complaints or claims from start to finish.
• Create and maintain a process for investigations to be completed in a consistent manner.
• Create comprehensive and objective investigative reports, including findings and recommendations.
• Create a process for and lead and maintain all tracking of investigations and disciplinary actions related to those investigations to identify trends, gap areas, and/or training needs.
• Collaborate with Senior HR Manager on investigations, trends, findings, etc.
• Provide accurate and timely updates on investigations to Senior HR Manager.
• Work with legal counsel to manage HR‑related claims and prepare for potential legal proceedings in partnership with Sr. HRM.
• Provide specialized knowledge and guidance on investigatory procedures, legal requirements, and best practices for handling sensitive matters.
• Coach/Guide RHRMs on how to conduct investigations as backup when needed.
• Train managers and/or employees on HR related topics.
• Perform other duties as required.

• This position will not manage employees.

• Must demonstrate a strong business acumen and knowledge of standard concepts, practices, and procedures in HR.
• Maintain a high level of confidentiality with all information contained within the scope of employment.
• Must possess professional demeanor and stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• Ability to work with all levels of management and employees in a professional and efficient manner.
• Must display a high level of initiative, effort, and commitment toward completing assignments accurately and efficiently.
• Must be organized and detail‑oriented with the ability to multi‑task.
• Proficient in Windows and Microsoft applications.
• Must work efficiently and effectively, both independently and as a team.
• Ability to think critically to analyze and identify issues, make decisions, and resolve problems.
• Must possess senior level investigatory skills.

• Waste industry experience is a plus.
• 5+ years employee relations and investigatory experience is required.
• Possess and maintain current knowledge of laws related to Human Resources.

• Rarely lift/carry/push/pull a maximum of 10 lbs.
• Rarely work outside in wet/humid conditions.
• Frequently work in areas of dust, odors, mist, gases, and other airborne matter.
• Frequently sit/stand/walk in an office environment.

• Exposure to residential and commercial waste.
• Ability to travel between offices, as required.
• Ability to work flexible hours; expected to work nights and weekends as needed.
• Ability to work overtime,…