Employee Relations Consultant (Open to hiring at Senior level)

Company Description

Why Wellmark: We are a mutual insurance company owned by our policy holders across Iowa and South Dakota, and we’ve built our reputation on over 80 years’ worth of trust. We are not motivated by profits. We are motivated by the well-being of our friends, family, and neighbors–our members. If you’re passionate about joining an organization working hard to put its members first, to provide best-in-class service, and one that is committed to sustainability and innovation, consider applying today! 

Learn more about our unique benefit offerings here. 

Job Description

At Wellmark, we are navigating rapid change and building/maintaining a high-performance culture rooted in accountability, growth, and maintaining strong employee engagement. We are adding to our Employee Relations team to step in and make an immediate impact by coaching leaders, guiding employees, and strengthening our employee experience during a pivotal time.  

In this role, you will: 

• Partner with leaders to manage performance, hold effective conversations, and build team capability. 
• Lead impartial investigations into workplace concerns, ensuring fair and consistent outcomes. 
• Review and refine policies, practices, and procedures to align with our evolving talent strategies. 
• Analyze trends and recommend proactive solutions that minimize risk and enhance the employee experience. 

The ideal candidate thrives in dynamic, evolving environments and brings a balance of expertise, sound judgment, and empathy to the work. You are confident in navigating complex employee relations matters, from investigations to policy interpretation, while also excelling at coaching and influencing leaders to strengthen their own capabilities. Known for your discretion, integrity, and ability to build trust, you possess a strong knowledge base in employment law and understand how to apply it pragmatically to achieve fair, consistent outcomes. Exceptional communication and conflict resolution abilities are paired with a growth mindset, resilience, and a steady presence under pressure. Above all, you are motivated by helping leaders and employees succeed, contributing to a culture that values accountability, respect, and continuous improvement. 

Qualifications

Minimum requirements for Employee Relations Consultant:

• Bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, or related field (HR certification preferred).
• 3+ years of experience in employee relations or HR consulting, preferably in a complex or matrixed organization, or applicable work experience.
• Strong knowledge of core employment laws and regulations (e.g., FMLA, ADA, EEO).
• Demonstrated ability to consult objectively, influence outcomes, and build trust with leaders and employees.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
• Experience conducting employee relations investigations and documenting findings.
• Ability to exercise discretion and handle confidential information with sensitivity.
• Proficiency with HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

Minimum requirements for Sr. Employee Relations Consultant:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s or HR certification preferred)
• 5+ years of experience in employee relations or HR consulting, preferably in a complex or matrixed organization, or applicable work experience.
• Demonstrated ability to influence and build trust with stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience in a consulting-type role, showing the ability to objectively assess and influence outcomes.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to synthesize information to arrive at sound conclusions.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise judgment and discretion in handling confidential information and situations.
• Advanced understanding of applicable state and federal employment laws and regulations (e.g. FMLA, Affirmative Action, ADA, etc.) 
• Experience conducting investigations and writing detailed reports.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

Additional Information

What you will do as an Employee Relations Consultant:

a. Collaborate with leaders to coach employees who are not meeting established goals and support leaders in preparing for performance conversations and workplace conflict discussions. Ensure approach and follow-up align with the culture and experience we are driving as an organization.

b. Conduct thorough and impartial investigations into employee complaints, including harassment, discrimination, and ot