Employee Relations Specialist

Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world. The equipment that we create and service is essential to advancing AI and accelerating the commercialization of next-generation semiconductor chips. Join us and push the boundaries of materials science and engineering in a company at the foundation of the electronics industry. The work we do together advances the world’s technology.

Location: Bundang,KOR, Shanghai,CHN, Tainan,TWN, Tokyo,JPN You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.  At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits .

Summary As part of a centralized Employee Relations (ER) Center of Excellence, this role serves as a trusted advisor to business leaders, HR Business Partners, Global Employment Law (GEL), and cross-functional stakeholders on complex employee relations matters. The position is responsible for independently leading workplace investigations, performance and conduct management cases, and employee risk mitigation efforts while ensuring compliance with employment laws, company policies, and organizational values. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in employee relations investigations, performance management, stakeholder consultation, and labor law compliance within a multinational environment. This individual must be comfortable navigating sensitive and high-risk situations, influencing senior leaders, and balancing employee, legal, and business considerations.

Employee Relations & Investigations Lead end-to-end employee relations investigations from intake through fact-finding, interviews, evidence analysis, findings, recommendations, and case closure. Handle complex and sensitive matters, including harassment, discrimination, retaliation, workplace misconduct, conflicts of interest, ethics concerns, and policy violations. Conduct independent investigations and prepare clear, objective, and well-documented investigation reports and recommendations. Partner closely with Global Employment Law, Ethics & Compliance, Security, and HR stakeholders on high-risk or escalated employee matters. Assess legal, reputational, operational, and employee-related risks and provide recommendations to support informed decision-making. Performance & Conduct Management Serve as a subject matter expert on employee performance, conduct, disciplinary actions, and involuntary separations. Advise and coach managers on difficult employee situations, including performance improvement plans (PIPs), misconduct investigations, corrective actions, and terminations. Ensure consistent and legally compliant application of policies and employment practices across employee populations. Support leaders in managing complex performance and behavior-related concerns while balancing business objectives and employee experience. Consultation, Partnership & Coaching Act as a trusted advisor to HRBPs and business leaders on employee relations strategy, risk management, and workplace conflict resolution. Influence and coach leaders at all organizational levels through complex and sensitive employee situations. Partner effectively with HR Centers of Excellence, Legal, Compliance, Security, and regional HR teams to drive consistent employee relations practices. Foster productive relationships across diverse cultures and