Human Resources Manager- Public Safety

Albemarle County is seeking a full-time Human Resources Manager to serve as a strategic partner for our Police and Fire Departments and an integral member of the HR Department leadership team. Job responsibilities and qualification requirements are outlined below. This is a hybrid position that will require some work in our County facilities and allow for some remote work. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including participation in the Virginia Retirement System, paid leave and holidays, professional development, and a new employee health clinic. Interviewing will begin after May 2, 2025 and the position will remain open until filled.

Job Summary/ Objective:

The Human Resources Manager for Public Safety serves as the primary HR liaison for the County’s Fire and Police Departments. This role integrates comprehensive HR functions, including recruitment, compensation, and employee relations, tailored to the distinct needs of public safety operations. Under the general supervision of the HR Director, HR Manager ensures compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, serves as a key partner in personnel and HR management, fosters positive interdepartmental relationships, and supports the strategic goals of each department.

Essential Functions:

• Coordinates full-cycle recruiting efforts for uniformed and civilian public safety roles, including job postings, external position advertisements, screening, and selection processes;
• Develops and recommends public safety pay structures, pay policies and procedures, and other compensation strategies (e.g., shift differentials, certification bonuses) in alignment with the County’s strategic plan and compensation philosophies;
• Provides guidance on best practices for overtime reduction and leave management to balance financial stewardship and employee wellbeing;
• Counsels supervisors and department leaders on conflict resolution, performance management, and disciplinary action;
• Interprets and applies County policies, procedures, and employment laws, including FLSA, FMLA, ADA, and EEO guidelines;
• Assists departments with aligning general orders, protocols, and procedures with County policies;
• Investigates employee complaints and all matters involving harassment, discrimination, hostile work environment and other legal matters;
• Analyzes HR metrics to identify trends and develop solutions for turnover, succession planning, absenteeism, and other workforce challenges;
• Coordinates and facilitates relevant HR training, such as supervisory skills, anti-harassment and discrimination, and performance management;
• Assists with other organizational HR functions and projects as required.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university with major work in human resource management, industrial psychology, business or public administration or related field;
• Four years of progressively responsible multi-disciplinary human resources experience, to include compensation and employee relations;
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications/ Certifications:

• Professional Human Resource certification issued by Public Sector Human Resources Association (PSHRA) or Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM).
• Work experience in Public Safety and/or local or state government.

Additional Information:

• Must possess a valid appropriate driver's permit issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia, and meet the requirements set forth in the Authorized Driver policy.
• This position will require occasional visits outside of regular business hours to fire stations, police precincts, or other public safety facilities to successfully perform the duties assigned.

Travel Required:

Occasional local daytime travel expectation for this position and occasional overnight travel for continuing education.

Remote Work:

This position maintains a hybrid remote work schedule that is in compliance with the County’s Remote Work Policy and meets the operational and service needs for the position. All County staff must maintain residence within the Commonwealth of Virginia.