Position Summary

Under the direction of the Superintendent, and in accordance with the policies and procedures of the Personnel Commission, the Director of Human Resources (“Director”) is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of Human Resources (HR) operations within the Humboldt County Office of Education (HCOE). This position plays a critical role in supporting the organization’s vision and mission by ensuring the effective recruitment, development and management of a diverse and highly qualified workforce.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The Director oversees the overall strategic direction, planning, coordination, administration and evaluation of HR at HCOE, which has over 330 staff in various locations throughout Humboldt County. The Director is responsible for developing and ensuring effective implementation of plans, systems, policies and processes for all aspects of HR within a dynamic and fast-paced work environment. This position requires a true strategic thinker who is collaborative and capable of building consensus and commitment toward HCOE’s vision, mission, strategic goals and shared outcomes. The Director coordinates the activities of the Personnel Commission and acts as Secretary to the Commission.

Supervision Received and Exercised

This position is under the supervision of the Superintendent, who shall evaluate the Director in coordination with the Personnel Commission. The Director shall supervise the staff within the HR Department.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities (Examples of Essential Job Functions)

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Strategic HR Planning: Develop and implement strategic HR plans aligned with HCOE’s goals. Provide leadership in the formulation of HR policies and procedures to meet legal requirements and organizational needs.
• Talent Acquisition and Recruitment: Lead recruitment efforts, including designing job descriptions, conducting interviews and managing the selection process.  The Director of HR is the designated Cabinet member who sits in each first interview for prospective employees. Facilitate superintendent and other executive searches as requested by local districts. Collaborate with hiring managers to identify staffing needs and create recruitment strategies.
• Employee Relations: Serve as the point of contact for employee concerns, disputes and grievances, facilitating resolution processes in accordance with policies, collective bargaining agreements and laws. Communicate with employees regarding changes to policies, procedures and laws associated with personnel matters. Promote a positive workplace culture and foster employee engagement and satisfaction.
• Performance Management: Develop and administer performance evaluation systems, providing guidance to supervisors and managers in conducting performance reviews. Implement professional development programs to enhance employee skills and competencies. Oversee and evaluate the staff in the HR Department. Counsel and guide hiring managers in hiring and termination processes. Organize and participate in employment interviews and oversee the satisfaction surveys/exit interview process.
• Compensation and Benefits: Oversee the design and administration of competitive compensation and benefits programs. Oversee and approve all aspects of salary placements. Confer with and guide employees on prospective/pending retirements. Counsel on Golden Handshake and other post-retirement opportunities. Monitor salary structures and recommend adjustments to remain competitive in the job market.
• Compliance and Legal Matters: Ensure compliance with federal, state and local employment laws and regulations. Stay updated on changes in labor laws and make necessary adjustments to HR policies and procedures. Research information for collective bargaining and for personnel policy development. Process and maintain various legal documents, records and correspondence.  Collaborate with Credential Services Manager to ensure appropriate credentialing at HCOE.
• Workforce Diversity and Inclusion: Lead diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives to create a diverse and culturally competent workforce. Develop and implement diversity recruitment and retention strategies.
• Labor Relations: Collaborate with labor unions and serve as a representative of the County Office of Education during labor negotiations. Administer labor agreements and support the resolution of labor-related disputes.
• Records and Data Management: Maintain accurate and confidential employee records, ensuring compliance with record-keeping requirements. Generate HR reports and analytics to support decision-making. Provide information and job application assistance as needed.
• Budget Management: Develop and manage the HR department’s budget and Personnel Commission’s budget, allocating resources effectively. Identify cost-saving opportunities and manage HR-related expenses.
• Training and Development: Provide leadership development opportunities for staff within the HR department. Offer training and educational programs for employees to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Technology and HR Systems: Oversee the implementation and maintenance of HR information systems and technology tools. Ensure data accuracy and security in HR systems. Collaborate with Fiscal Department in areas of shared employee-based technology.

Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• Essential practices of effective HR leaders;
• Effective use of various technology tools as they apply to HR functions;
• The Merit System and rules for the Personnel Commission;
• Credentialing requirements and emerging trends, opportunities and challenges with regards to credentialing processes and procedures;
• Applicable employment laws, regulations, labor negotiations and HR best practices.

Ability to:

• Develop and foster effective individuals and teams;
• Operationalize the organizational vision, mission, goals, shared values and guiding principles;
• Demonstrate emotional intelligence;
• Model inclusive, effective and authentic communication;
• Apply knowledge of the intersectionality of race, equity and inclusion;
• Build and sustain positive, trusting relationships;
• Conduct HCOE operations with the highest moral, legal and ethical principles.

Education and Experience

Minimum required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration or a related field (Master’s degree preferred) OR equivalent years of Admin/Supervisory roles in K-12 educational setting;
• HR certification is highly desirable (e.g., SHRM-CP, SPHR);
• Several years of progressive HR leadership with supervisory experience, preferably in the education sector;
• Strong interpersonal and communication;
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making;
• Leadership and team management experience.

Working Conditions

As a Senior Manager, the Director is expected to be present and available during regular office hours and may be required to work evenings, weekends and holidays. The Director will primarily be working in an office environment and is expected to drive a vehicle as needed to conduct work.

Physical Demands

• Hearing and speaking to exchange information and make presentations;
• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard;
• Vision to read a variety of materials;
• Sitting or standing for extended periods of time.

Other Requirements

• Must be fingerprinted and a satisfactory Department of Justice records check must be received by HCOE prior to employment.
• TB testing and/or risk assessment will be required upon
• Must pass a pre-employment physical (if applicable).

CLASS 13  |  PC Approved 10/10/2023