Job Description

Victory Programs, a Boston-based nonprofit, has supported individuals and families in crisis for 50 years. Our long history is a testament to our commitment and stability. Thousands turn to us yearly for shelter, sustenance, recovery, care, and professional, compassionate support. Our impact is significant. We have provided shelter to individuals experiencing homelessness, supported people on their path to recovery from substance use, and offered care and services to those living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic illnesses. Our team of over 380 staff across nearly 30 programs works with individuals to develop and execute creative, safe solutions to their genuine challenges.


Victory Programs is seeking a dynamic and results-driven

Employee Relations Specialist

with a proven track record of fostering positive workplace environments, resolving complex employee issues, and promoting organizational health through fair, consistent, and legally sound HR practices. The

Employee Relations Specialist

will be adept at building trust across all levels of an organization, conducting thorough investigations, and providing strategic guidance to leadership on employee engagement, performance management, and compliance. They must be passionate about cultivating inclusive cultures where employees feel respected, heard, and empowered to succeed. Skilled in navigating sensitive matters with professionalism, empathy, and discretion while supporting organizational goals and values.

Essential Functions:

Conduct comprehensive reviews and investigations into employee concerns, complaints, and policy violations, ensuring all processes are handled with fairness, confidentiality, and in alignment with the organization's employee handbook, internal policies, and applicable employment laws. Demonstrate ability to manage employee relations matters with a high degree of integrity, ensuring unbiased investigations, equitable conflict resolution, and consistent application of policies to foster a workplace culture free from favoritism, discrimination, and undue influence. Promote a positive workplace environment by providing solutions that align with organizational mission and values. Collaborate closely with the Chief Human Resources Officer and HR team to advise on trends, risks, and best practices related to employee relations. Provide coaching and guidance to managers and supervisors to support effective leadership, communication, and performance management. Facilitate and lead employee engagement initiatives that promote transparency, feedback, and open communication. Develop and manage onboarding and mentorship programs to help new staff feel connected, supported, and successful from day one. Coordinate and deliver training related to workplace behavior, compliance, communication, and leadership development. Utilize data and employee feedback to identify trends and propose strategies that improve morale, retention, and team performance. Participate in internal committees and cross-functional collaborations to inform and enhance workplace culture initiatives. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions. Advises administrative personnel, and supervisors regarding the proper application of federal and state laws, rules, and policies related to specific employee situations. Administer and maintain employee evaluation by integrating developmental goals, and core values to enhance staff accountability, engagement, and professional growth across all program areas. Develop and deliver presentations and training sessions on HR policies, employee relations practices, and organizational development initiatives to support staff growth and compliance. Actively participates in meetings, training, and professional development opportunities to stay informed on organizational policies, HR best practices, and regulatory updates. Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

Innovative and solutions-oriented mindset, with a demonstrated ability to design and implement effective processes that improve collaboration, performance, and equity across diverse teams. Strategic thinker capable of understanding the big picture and developing long term HR goals and strategy. Ability to work on-site with flexibility for occasional travel to various program locations as needed. Some driving may be required for site program visits. Dedication and commitment to change management, continuous improvement, and high level performance. Ability to use data and statistics to bring resolution to real work HR problems. Innovative mindset to develop new ways of working across a diverse pool to optimize work and performance, a strategic doer, demonstrating agility and collaboration throughout the organization. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey sensitive information clearly and professionally. Excellent interpersonal skills, with a high level of attention to detail and the ability to build trust at all levels of the organization. Demonstrated experience utilizing HRIS platforms such as ADP, Paylocity, or similar systems to manage employee data, track performance, generate reports, and support HR processes including onboarding, benefits administration, and compliance. Must be task and detail oriented and diligent in overseeing and managing tasks. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software. Experience working in the non-profit sector.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development or related field. Master's degree in Human Resources Management, Labor Relations, or a related discipline is preferred. A minimum of 5-7 years of progressive human resources experience, with at least 3 years focused specifically on employee relations, conflict resolution, or labor relations. HR certification (e.g., SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR) is highly desirable.

Compensation and Benefits:

This is an outstanding opportunity to contribute to a highly effective non-profit team. Salary Range for the role is $85,000 and is commensurate with lived and professional experience. This role is expected is to be fully on-site with the possibility of one hybrid day after 6 month review based on performance and organizational needs.


Victory Programs values a diverse workforce, as we collectively seek to create a welcoming, inclusive and accessible environment for our employees and the people we serve. We strive to sustain healthy, functioning communities that respect and celebrate different experiences, identities, cultures and ideas.


Victory Programs has helped individuals and families in crisis for over 45 years. Thousands turn to us yearly for shelter, sustenance, recovery, care, and professional, compassionate support. Most struggle with homelessness, substance use and mental health, and many live with HIV/AIDS. Our team of more than 300 staff across over 30+ programs works with people to develop and execute creative, safe solutions to the very real challenges our clients face.


Our benefit program includes a 75% health and 25% dental employer premium contribution, 100% employer paid disability and life insurance. Victory Programs offers a generous paid time off package to all employees including vacation, sick, and personal time as well as holidays. Upon hire, all staff are entitled to up to: 4 personal days, 160 sick hours, 10 holidays and 3 1/2 weeks of vacation. These figures adjust based on full time or part time status and allocated vacation time increases with length of employment.