Human Resources Representative

Whatcom County is seeking an experienced Human Resources professional to join our dedicated team and contribute to a respectful, inclusive, and innovative workplace culture.  As a Human Resources Representative at Whatcom County, you will perform a wide range of professional and technical HR duties as a generalist. We support multiple departments in local government with employees who provide a wide range of services within our community, including roads, law enforcement, public health, parks, the courts, and more. We have union and non-union employees and we help our leaders navigate a complex array of laws and policies. With a progressive level of autonomy, you’ll work collaboratively to develop and implement innovative HR practices and provide strategic guidance to departments, teams, and leadership.  

The role of HR Rep at Whatcom County requires independent judgment, excellent problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to project coordination across multiple functional areas.  

There are three levels of HR Rep at Whatcom County: HR Rep I, II and III. The level at which we hire, the complexity of work assignments, and the independence with which the new HR Rep is expected to work will depend upon the experience, skills and abilities the successful candidate brings to the job. Most HR Reps start at the HR Rep I or II level, with the potential for job progression after proficiency and independent functioning increase.

Key Responsibilities

• Recruitment and Hiring: Oversee complex recruitment processes, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and best practices. Develop assessments, interview materials, and ensure non-discriminatory hiring practices.
• Leave Administration: Support the administration of the County’s various leave provisions and policies, as well as the coordination of employee medical leaves, such as FMLA and other leave programs.
• Employee and Labor Relations: Advise on employee performance issues, assist with  grievances, and participate in labor negotiations. Work to maintain positive labor and employee relations.
• Compensation and Benefits: Conduct job analyses, create and revise job descriptions, and provide recommendations on hiring, reclassifications, and salary adjustments. Manage benefit plan interpretation and problem resolution.
• HRIS Management: Independently oversee HRIS setup, reporting, maintenance, and upgrades, recommending system enhancements.
• Project Leadership: Lead and coordinate cross-functional HR projects, developing plans and meeting goals on time and within budget.
• Training and Development: Design and deliver employee and management training programs.
• Policy Compliance: Ensure consistent interpretation and compliance with laws, policies, and collective bargaining agreements. Conduct investigations and audits to address issues or complaints.

Who You Are

• A collaborative and solution-oriented HR professional.
• Knowledgeable in HR management principles, labor law, and compliance requirements.
• An effective communicator who builds positive relationships at all levels.
• Highly organized and capable of managing multiple priorities with attention to detail.
• Committed to fostering equity, inclusion, and respect in the workplace.

Why Join Whatcom County? At Whatcom County, we are dedicated to building an equitable and inclusive workplace that values diversity and innovation. We offer competitive benefits, opportunities for professional development, and a supportive work environment where your contributions matter. Whatcom County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.

 Supervisor: Human Resources Director

Hours of Work: Monday – Friday 8 AM – 5 PM. Hybrid schedule with one day per week remote is available after training.

Salary Range and Job Descriptions:

• HR Rep I: Unrepresented Range 5: $32.04 – $46.42 / hr. Job Description.
• HR Rep II: Unrepresented Range 6: $33.96 – $49.31 / hr. Job Description. 
• HR Rep III: Unrepresented Range 7: $6,239 – $9,059 / mo. Job Description.       

We are required by State law to post the full salary ranges. Hiring rate depends on qualifications and consideration of internal equity.  This position receives annual pay increases to the next step in the associated salary range (apx. 3.8%) subject to satisfactory performance, in addition to any approved Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA).

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, Human Resources Management, or a related field.

HR Rep I: 2 years of progressively responsible professional human resources experience
HR Rep II:  4 years of progressively responsible HR experience, including 2 years as an HR generalist.
HR Rep III: 4 years of progressively responsible HR experience, including 3 years of generalist experience in a unionized environment, and demonstrated expertise in compensation and performance management.

• Knowledge of HR practices in unionized and public-sector environments is preferred.
• Proficiency with HRIS, Microsoft Office Suite, and data analysis.