$26.57 - $39.86 Hourly$55,273 - $82,909 AnnuallyThis position is a Pay Band C7Posting DetailsThe Department of Public Safety's Human Resources Bureau is dedicated to serving both our civilian employees and the men and women of the New Mexico State Police. Our team plays a vital role in supporting the agency's mission by managing a wide range of essential functions, including compensation and classification, payroll processing, leave administration, and employee benefits. We also conduct civilian investigations to ensure fairness, transparency, and compliance with state policies. By taking care of the people who serve and protect, we help create a strong foundation that allows every member of our workforce to focus on what matters most keeping our communities safe. Why does the job exist?The HR Employee and Labor Relations Specialist is key to promoting a fair and positive work environment by conducting impartial investigations into employee misconduct. They ensure all investigations are thorough, confidential, and comply with legal and organizational standards. In addition to handling investigations, the specialist recommends disciplinary actions, collaborates with legal counsel as needed, and advises on policy interpretation, ADA accommodations, and labor relations issues. They also provide training to managers on discipline, workplace safety, and equal opportunity. When necessary, the specialist coordinates with the New Mexico State Police, Internal Affairs, and other entities to ensure comprehensive and consistent resolution. Their investigative work and guidance help maintain a respectful and accountable workplace. How does it get done?Mediation and Conflict Resolution (40%): Acts as a neutral mediator to resolve workplace disputes by conducting thorough fact-finding and investigations. Prepares clear, detailed reports summarizing findings to support fair and policy-compliant disciplinary decisions such as reprimands, suspensions, or terminations.Employee Misconduct Investigations (30%): Leads comprehensive investigations from initial complaint intake through resolution. Collects and analyzes evidence, interviews witnesses, and documents all steps meticulously. Drafts formal investigative reports that present findings objectively, support recommended disciplinary actions, and provide a clear record for management and legal review. Collaborates with legal counsel and management to ensure investigations are thorough and compliant.Training and Development (30%): Designs and delivers training for managers on best practices in employee relations, with an emphasis on effective investigation techniques and proper documentation. Covers discipline, grievance procedures, workplace safety, equal opportunity, ADA accommodations, and employment law. Offers ongoing guidance on report writing and policy interpretation to support consistent and transparent employee relations management. Who are the customers?This position provides essential support to multiple key components of the New Mexico Department of Public Safety, including the Program Support Division, Statewide Law Enforcement Support Division, New Mexico State Police (NMSP), Office of the Secretary, Office of Legal Affairs, Administrative Services Division, Information Technology, Law Enforcement Academy, Forensic Laboratory, and the Law Enforcement Records Bureau. Ideal CandidateExceptional Communication Skills: Demonstrates the ability to communicate clearly, tactfully, and effectively with employees at all levels, fostering open dialogue while maintaining professionalism and respect. Skilled in mediating sensitive conversations to resolve conflicts and promote understanding.Strict Confidentiality: Committed to handling all employee relations and investigation matters with the highest degree of discretion and confidentiality, ensuring trust and integrity throughout every stage of the process.Employee Relations & Investigations Expertise: Brings 10 to 15 years of experience managing complex workplace issues, conducting impartial investigations, and guiding fair resolutions while protecting p Minimum QualificationBachelor's Degree in any field and one (1) year of experience in human resource operations; recruitment, selection, payroll, compensation and benefits administration, labor relations, investigations, HR-related training experience, and/or occupational analysis. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling five (5) years may substitute for the required education and experience. Employment RequirementsEmployment is subject to a pre-employment background investigation and fingerprinting in accordance with all terms and conditions of federal and state law, rules and regulations; and is conditional pending results. Continued employment is contingent upon remaining felony free, per Section 5.12.1.1 of the Criminal Justice Information Systems Security Policy.In addition, the selected candidate must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and a current Defensive Driving Certificate from the State of New Mexico; or pass and receive the Defensive Driving Certificate.The selected candidate will work with highly confidential and high-volume data flow must have the ability to complete assignments with a high level of accuracy within strict time constraints as well as, handle multiple tasks and request from several people at once. Working ConditionsWork is performed in a fast-paced law enforcement office environment with frequent use of Visual/Video Display Terminals (VDT), extensive computer and phone usage, and extended periods of sitting amid a high volume of data flow. The role involves handling confidential information and working alongside officers who may be carrying weapons. Occasional overtime is required to meet statutory and critical deadlines. Physical demands include some sitting, standing, bending, and reaching, with the ability to lift up to 25 pounds. Additionally, occasional local and in-state travel may be necessary. Supplemental InformationDo you know what Total Compensation is? Click here Agency Contact Information: Kiki Arellano (505) 479-2184. Email For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.Bargaining Unit PositionThis position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
State of New Mexico