Job Summary

The Human Resources Director is a key position within the City of Athens organization, serving as a champion for workplace and organizational development. Under the general direction of the Assistant City Manager, provides responsive direction and leadership of a comprehensive human resources program including recruitment and hiring, employee relations, compensation and classification, benefits and insurance, training and development, job descriptions and performance management, personnel policies and records management, regulatory compliance, risk management and safety, engagement and retention, and other related programs.

Essential Job Functions

• Oversee and manage comprehensive programs in Human Resources, Risk Management and Civil Service.
• Leads the development, implementation, administration and review of applicable plans, policies, procedures, and City ordinances and resolutions.
• Administers compensation and classification plan, provides review and recommendations for salary adjustments, conducts salary surveys, prepares, and analyzes statistical data and audits position modifications.
• Develop and oversee employee benefits programs for insurance, retirement, and leave; coordinate and research insurance programs and coordinates the bidding process.
• Advises supervisory/management staff regarding performance management, employee relations issues, disciplinary and grievance procedures, and counseling employees on workplace issues.
• Coordinates and conducts training programs, new employee orientation, policy and procedure updates, and other training programs.
• Assists the City with long-range planning for organizational development and structure, employee engagement, including employee recognition program, and retention strategies.
• Advises and consults with city management personnel and employees in the application of personnel rules and regulations, and monitors compliance with personnel policies.
• Interprets, applies, and ensures the City's compliance with all applicable employment laws and regulations pertaining to Human Resources, Risk Management, and Civil Service.
• Maintains all official employment records.
• Oversee the Risk Management program including workers' compensation, liability, and property insurance, and safety initiatives.
• Prepare staff reports, attend City Council meetings and make presentations to the City Council as needed. Ability to verbalize information in a clear, concise manner.
• Responsible for the Human Resources and Civil Service budgets and provides assistance in budget preparation as needed.
• Serves as the City's Civil Service Director, provides direct support to the Civil Service Commission, and assure City compliance with Local Government Code 143 and local rules.
• Performs other related duties as may be assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of Human Resource management practices and principles, state and federal employment laws and regulations.
• Knowledge of business management practices and principles, municipal government operations, and budgeting/fiscal management.
• Knowledge and experience administering Civil Service processes as governed by Texas Local Government Code 143.
• Ability to analyze and evaluate programs, policies, procedures, and/or services, prioritize work assignments.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication skills are required, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to manage and maintain strict confidential information in a responsible way.
• Develop and maintain a human resources management program based on the established goals and objectives of the City.
• Commitment to ethical decision-making and transparency.
• Attention to detail to accurately maintain the City's Human Resource Information System (HRIS).

Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in human resource management, public administration, or a related field preferred, or a combination of education and relevant experience. Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in the management and operation of a comprehensive human resource management program. PHR or SPHR certification in Human Resources is preferred or must be obtained within one (1) year of employment. Must possess a valid Texas driver's license and be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Benefits

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.