Human Resources Representative II or III, DOQ

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.

This role requires independent judgment, excellent problem-solving skills, and a proactive approach to project coordination across multiple functional areas.  

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.

For more information please see the job description. 

• HR Rep II: Unrepresented Range 6: $33.96 - $49.31 / hour (2025 rates)
• HR Rep III: Unrepresented Range 7: $6,239 - $9,059 / month (2025 rates)       

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, Human Resources Management, or a related field.
• Experience: 4 years of progressively responsible HR experience

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