Employee Relations Specialist Jobs for OPT Students
Employee Relations Specialist roles on OPT require strong interpersonal and HR compliance knowledge, making them a solid fit for students with degrees in human resources, labor relations, or business. Most positions qualify as specialty occupations under H-1B standards, which strengthens your path from OPT to long-term sponsorship.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
We want you to join our team! We need deeply compassionate, committed, and highly talented staff. The Woods System of Care is a health management organization transforming how care is delivered to individuals with behavioral and emotional challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and medical complexities. We are committed to helping them achieve their highest potential and independence through innovative and individualized approaches that promote learning and personal fulfillment.
BENEFITS
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Life and Disability Insurance
- PTO - Paid time off
- On-site medical center
- 403b retirement plan
- Continuing education programs
- Tuition-assistance program
- Career growth opportunities
SALARY
Starting at $50000 / annually - depending on experience / education
JOB SUMMARY
Communicates regularly with employees and management at assigned affiliate(s); develops systems to foster positive Employee Relations. Provides recommendations and systems to ensure compliance pertaining to Federal, State and local employment regulation. Assists in all aspects of the Employee Relations function.
- Conducts workplace investigations including but not limited to harassment, discrimination, workplace violence and policy violations.
- Compiles findings into concise summary, including recommendations based on knowledge of company policy.
- Assists in conducting or directing investigations regarding various workplace issues. Reviews recommendations taking into consideration policies and past outcomes.
- Assists in providing consultation/support to employees concerning job-related problems or personal problems contributing to job-related problems.
- Refers employees as indicated to resources for further assistance.
- Works closely with affiliate management teams, HRBPs, and Woods System of Care HR leadership to help build positive relationships and communication to better support teamwork and retention.
- Assists in providing consultation and training to management and supervisory personnel regarding Affiliate and Woods System of Care policies.
- Responsible for the unemployment process including processing paperwork from state, attending hearings, and preparing cost allocations.
- Responsible for promptly submitting all terminations from NJ affiliates and required separation information to NJDOL through the Employer Access portal. Prepares and uploads any supporting documentation if contesting an unemployment claim on the basis of employee misconduct or some other disqualifying reason.
- Assists in facilitating/monitoring internal grievance system.
- Recommends training needs for employees and management at all levels concerning policies, EEO compliance, and diversity initiatives.
- Conducts employee training and orientation, as needed.
- Ensures compliance with EEOC regulations.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required.
Minimum of 2 years’ experience in HR. Experience in Employee Relations and/or performing workplace investigations is required. Experience with unemployment in PA and/or NJ is preferred.
Professional certifications in Human Resources (e.g., SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR, or equivalent) are a plus.
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES
- Strong working knowledge of Federal, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey labor and employment laws and regulations.
- Highly organized, detail oriented, and able to multitask.
- Advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with ability to make sound decisions, conclusions, and judgments independently.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, including conflict resolution.
- Strong customer service orientation and the ability to professionally handle stressful situations.
- Must be proficient in all Microsoft Office suite software, HR technology, and other relevant technology tools.
- Must be computer literate.
ABOUT WOODS SYSTEM OF CARE
Woods System of Care (WSOC) is a forward-thinking nonprofit population health management organization transforming how care is delivered to individuals with behavioral and emotional challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and medical complexities. As a dynamic network of 12 affiliate agencies, WSOC champions a holistic, life cycle-oriented model of care that meets clients where they are, while driving innovation in access, outcomes, and cross-sector collaboration.
At WSOC, we value creativity, teamwork, continuous learning, and bold ideas that redefine what’s possible in integrated care. Our staff are mission-driven professionals who continually expand their expertise through professional development, conferences, and thought leadership opportunities.
Our diverse services include integrated healthcare, behavioral health, residential care, community-based programs, vocational services, crisis response, substance use services, special education, and supportive case management — delivering a truly comprehensive and remarkable safety net for our region’s most vulnerable.
INTRODUCTION
We want you to join our team! We need deeply compassionate, committed, and highly talented staff. The Woods System of Care is a health management organization transforming how care is delivered to individuals with behavioral and emotional challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and medical complexities. We are committed to helping them achieve their highest potential and independence through innovative and individualized approaches that promote learning and personal fulfillment.
BENEFITS
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Life and Disability Insurance
- PTO - Paid time off
- On-site medical center
- 403b retirement plan
- Continuing education programs
- Tuition-assistance program
- Career growth opportunities
SALARY
Starting at $50000 / annually - depending on experience / education
JOB SUMMARY
Communicates regularly with employees and management at assigned affiliate(s); develops systems to foster positive Employee Relations. Provides recommendations and systems to ensure compliance pertaining to Federal, State and local employment regulation. Assists in all aspects of the Employee Relations function.
- Conducts workplace investigations including but not limited to harassment, discrimination, workplace violence and policy violations.
- Compiles findings into concise summary, including recommendations based on knowledge of company policy.
- Assists in conducting or directing investigations regarding various workplace issues. Reviews recommendations taking into consideration policies and past outcomes.
- Assists in providing consultation/support to employees concerning job-related problems or personal problems contributing to job-related problems.
- Refers employees as indicated to resources for further assistance.
- Works closely with affiliate management teams, HRBPs, and Woods System of Care HR leadership to help build positive relationships and communication to better support teamwork and retention.
- Assists in providing consultation and training to management and supervisory personnel regarding Affiliate and Woods System of Care policies.
- Responsible for the unemployment process including processing paperwork from state, attending hearings, and preparing cost allocations.
- Responsible for promptly submitting all terminations from NJ affiliates and required separation information to NJDOL through the Employer Access portal. Prepares and uploads any supporting documentation if contesting an unemployment claim on the basis of employee misconduct or some other disqualifying reason.
- Assists in facilitating/monitoring internal grievance system.
- Recommends training needs for employees and management at all levels concerning policies, EEO compliance, and diversity initiatives.
- Conducts employee training and orientation, as needed.
- Ensures compliance with EEOC regulations.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required.
Minimum of 2 years’ experience in HR. Experience in Employee Relations and/or performing workplace investigations is required. Experience with unemployment in PA and/or NJ is preferred.
Professional certifications in Human Resources (e.g., SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR, or equivalent) are a plus.
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES
- Strong working knowledge of Federal, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey labor and employment laws and regulations.
- Highly organized, detail oriented, and able to multitask.
- Advanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with ability to make sound decisions, conclusions, and judgments independently.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, including conflict resolution.
- Strong customer service orientation and the ability to professionally handle stressful situations.
- Must be proficient in all Microsoft Office suite software, HR technology, and other relevant technology tools.
- Must be computer literate.
ABOUT WOODS SYSTEM OF CARE
Woods System of Care (WSOC) is a forward-thinking nonprofit population health management organization transforming how care is delivered to individuals with behavioral and emotional challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and medical complexities. As a dynamic network of 12 affiliate agencies, WSOC champions a holistic, life cycle-oriented model of care that meets clients where they are, while driving innovation in access, outcomes, and cross-sector collaboration.
At WSOC, we value creativity, teamwork, continuous learning, and bold ideas that redefine what’s possible in integrated care. Our staff are mission-driven professionals who continually expand their expertise through professional development, conferences, and thought leadership opportunities.
Our diverse services include integrated healthcare, behavioral health, residential care, community-based programs, vocational services, crisis response, substance use services, special education, and supportive case management — delivering a truly comprehensive and remarkable safety net for our region’s most vulnerable.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship as an Employee Relations Specialist
Frame your degree as the qualifying credential
Employee Relations Specialist roles typically require a degree in human resources, industrial relations, or organizational behavior. Lead with your field of study when applying, since specialty occupation status depends on a direct connection between your degree and the role.
Ask about sponsorship history before your first interview
Research whether a company has sponsored H-1B petitions in the past. Employers familiar with the process are more likely to commit to future sponsorship. This also signals that you are serious and prepared, which builds employer confidence early.
Highlight labor law compliance experience in applications
Employee relations roles involve NLRA compliance, grievance handling, and workplace investigations. Demonstrating hands-on exposure to these areas, even through internships or coursework, strengthens your case as a specialist-level candidate worth sponsoring.
Use Migrate Mate to find OPT-friendly ER roles
Migrate Mate surfaces Employee Relations Specialist jobs from employers open to sponsoring international candidates. Filtering by OPT-friendly companies saves time and keeps your search focused on realistic opportunities before your authorization window closes.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Does an Employee Relations Specialist role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
Generally yes. Employee Relations Specialist positions that require a bachelor's degree or higher in human resources, labor relations, or a related field typically meet the specialty occupation standard. The key is that the employer's job description must state a specific degree requirement, not just a preference. Roles framed as general HR generalist positions without a defined degree requirement can face more scrutiny.
Can I work as an Employee Relations Specialist on OPT right after graduation?
Yes, as long as the role is directly related to your degree field. A human resources or organizational behavior graduate can work in employee relations under post-completion OPT. You must have an active EAD card before starting work, and the job must connect to your academic program. If your degree is STEM-designated, you may also be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension.
Where can I find Employee Relations Specialist jobs open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for international students and F-1 OPT holders. It lists Employee Relations Specialist roles from employers who are open to sponsoring work visas, so you are not wasting applications on companies that will decline once they learn you need sponsorship. Searching through a general job board makes it harder to filter for sponsorship-friendly employers.
What happens to my OPT status if my Employee Relations Specialist job ends?
You enter a 60-day grace period, during which you can search for a new qualifying position, transfer to a different visa status, or prepare to depart the U.S. You cannot work during the grace period. If you secure a new employee relations role that qualifies under your degree, you can resume authorized employment. Staying under 90 days of unemployment during your total OPT period is critical to maintaining valid status.
Do Employee Relations Specialist roles in different industries have equal sponsorship potential?
No. Large corporations in finance, healthcare, technology, and manufacturing tend to have established HR departments and immigration budgets. Nonprofit organizations and small employers may have less experience with sponsorship and fewer resources to cover legal costs. Focusing on employers with 500 or more employees and a history of H-1B filings gives you a stronger foundation for long-term work authorization beyond OPT.
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