South Kitsap Fire and Rescue headquartered in Port Orchard, WA is currently accepting applications to fill the position of Human Resources Director. This is an outstanding opportunity to work closely with the Executive Team to provide support for a variety of human resource functions across the District. The ideal candidate will demonstrate the highest standards of personal and professional conduct and be comfortable  serving in a highly confidential position. Candidates can expect to work in an environment that is dynamic and service oriented. It is essential for the candidate to be  highly skilled in managing all human resource  functions across the organization and be an expert in employment and labor law, as well as have a current working knowledge of Washington state laws and regulations in the field of human  resources. Excellent verbal and written skills, as well as documented work history of integrity and  accuracy are essential. This is a full-time, FLSA Exempt, position

Major Function and Purpose

The Human Resources (HR) Director is responsible for directly supporting the mission of the district, by managing all functions of human resources. This position serves as a member of the executive team and advises the Board of Commissioners, fire chief, managers, supervisors and employees to ensure compliance with policies, procedures, and regulations related to all aspects of employment. 

General Function

The HR Director performs oversight and duties associated with human resources programs including recruitment & selection, classification & compensation, employee benefits administration, employee relations, records systems, labor relations, performance appraisal systems, worker’s compensation administration, and development and implementation of appropriate human resources practices and policies. 

Supervision Responsibilities

Provides general direction and leadership to those who oversee or participate in human resources functions and processes.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

The job duties and responsibilities represented in this job description in no way imply that these are the only duties to be performed.  Work assignments are given with general direction, requiring independent thought, performance and motivation.  Specific duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

·         Developing strategies for human resource program areas; performing research, providing information, analysis, recommendations and managing the implementation of human resource goals.

·         Serves as a member of the Executive Leadership Team as a subject-matter expert in the area of human resources, identifying and advising on complex employee relations and labor relations issues, and providing recommendations for areas of organizational growth and change.

·         Participates in the district’s annual budgeting and long-range planning processes by providing input in the areas associated with assigned areas of responsibility.

·         Possesses exceptional leadership, supervisory and technical skill, exhibits self-motivation and capabilities to advance district goals and standards while contributing to a positive, productive workplace environment.

·         Develops and coordinates the implementation of human resources policies and procedures; assures district compliance with federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations; monitors changes in regulations; interprets current policies and contracts; makes recommendations for changes and advises fire chief and Board of Commissioners.

·         Directs the recruitment and selection of new hires; advises and assists with promotional exams; advises and supports recruitment and selection of volunteers.

·         Oversees human resources record systems for compliance and security of sensitive data. Serves as an advisor regarding timekeeping and payroll processing systems to ensure accuracy, security and compliance with contractual obligations and state and federal regulations.

·         Manages district benefit programs including but not limited to deferred compensation, health insurance, Employee Assistance Program, paid time off, health reimbursement accounts; makes recommendations for changes; manages provider and third-party relationships; oversees, sets policy and performs duties related to the administration of benefits for employees.

·         Administers all levels of employee classification and compensation; performs research, analysis, and develops recommendations of salary ranges; performs analysis of current and new positions; develops and maintains position descriptions within appropriate classifications.

·         Advises on all levels of labor relations; participates in labor negotiations; interprets contract; writes recommendations for contract and policy development; serves as liaison between labor and management.

·         Coordinates and advises on issues related to employee investigations, grievances, complaints of misconduct, and employee discipline; ensures process and district action complies with policy and procedure, collective bargaining agreements and state and federal regulations;

·         Serves as management representative in legal proceedings, before judges, mediators, state agencies and legal counsel; prepares correspondence and documentation related to such matters; ensures consistency of district action and maintains records.

·         Administers, develops and monitors completion of personnel performance appraisals; assists supervisors to resolve, document, and monitor performance deficiencies; writes formal performance improvement plans.

·         Ensures compliance with Labor and Industry worker’s compensation regulations, administration of documentation, claim processing and return to work program; works with District Safety Officer to monitor on-the-job injuries.

·         Administers ADA and FMLA policies, procedures, and occurrences to ensure compliance with regulations, consistent treatment and practice, trains supervisors and managers; works with employees, health care providers, and labor representatives in accommodation and long-term illness cases; oversees limited or light duty program.

·         Stays up-to-date on trends and best practices in human resources field; advises fire chief on recommended changes.

·         Performs other duties as assigned by the fire chief.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of:

Applicable principles, practices, and techniques of public administration, labor and employment law, and human resources management.  This includes Equal employment opportunity (EEO) principles.

Appropriate techniques utilized in recruitment, classification, testing, job analysis, wage and salary administration, staffing, secession planning, record keeping, benefits administration, health care and other insurance options, employee relations, labor relations, training and career development.

Effective strategies for succession planning.

Federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations, codes and ordinances, along with when and how to apply current case law to assure compliance.

Management and supervisory principles and practices including program planning, contract requirements, budgeting, direction, coordination, and evaluation.

District policies and procedures related to functional areas assigned.

Be Skilled and Able to:

Interpret and apply labor and employment laws, including contract administration.

Demonstrate a high degree of confidentiality with interpersonal communications and sensitive matters.

Effectively communicate at the executive level, including with both the fire chief and the board.

Innovate to solve systemic problems and increase efficiencies.

Function in climates that are highly stressful and demand excellent analytical skills.

Exhibit effective working relationships with co-workers and subordinates as well as other government officials and organizations and the general public.

Write clear and concise documents and communicate orally on subjects that may be highly technical and legally complex.

Contribute positively to a working environment that is respectful and responsive to both the needs of employees and management.

Work independently and without direction to achieve organizational goals and be highly motivated to participate in and lead teams.

Maintain accurate records and take responsibility for correcting errors.

Work flexible hours, including attendance at evening meetings, and fulfill all traveling requirements for the position.

Able to review and consult with management regarding time-keeping practices as they relate to current software products that capture payroll information, i.e. TeleStaff™ etc.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

Although work is generally performed in an office environment, fieldwork and travel is required to conduct investigations, interviews, attend meetings and training.  This includes evening meetings and overnight long-distance travel for trainings. 

Access to guaranteed reliable transportation is required. 

Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in business, public or human resources administration or closely related field. (Master’s Degree preferred)

Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in human resources management, including two (2) years of supervisory or management responsibilities or an equivalent combination of experience and education is required.

Experience working in a public or non-profit sector is highly preferred. Experience working in a unionized environment is required.

Computer Skills: Advanced experience and working knowledge of various software applications, word processing and spreadsheet applications.

Certificates & Licenses:

·         Possess a valid Washington State driver’s license.

·         Prior to appointment, the successful candidate must submit to and pass a background check.

·         Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Certified Professional or Senior

Certified Professional preferred.

·         Must be bondable and insurable.

·         Washington Notary Public (within 6 months).