HR Operations Manager

Full Job Description

Are you an experienced HR leader who enjoys working with and supporting an incredible team of professionals that provide sound, quality HR advice, guidance, and services in every facet of HR?

Do you thrive working in a culture of belonging, access, inclusion and respect and find satisfaction collaborating with others to make a difference for people every day?

If you answer is Yes, this role as the HR Operations Manager may be the perfect opportunity for you!

Requirements

This recruitment is open until filled. Applications received for this opportunity will be reviewed immediately, so your prompt response is encouraged. The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time during the recruitment process.

The Opportunity:

Reporting to the Human Resources Director, you will manage all operational and consultative activities across all HR disciplines, including but not limited to classification and compensation, recruitment and selection, performance management, personnel investigations, HR policies and procedures, learning and development, and liability prevention.

You will also serve as the agency’s Labor Relations Manager, developing, building and maintaining effective working relationships with union representatives and providing expert-level guidance and advice on all aspects of compliance with the collective bargaining agreement.

Some of what you’ll do includes:

• Providing leadership for HR team members in the planning and delivery of sound advice, accurate completion of work, and quality service to our team members, leaders, partners, and customers;
• Providing expert-level advice to agency managers and leaders on highly complex issues, ensuring accurate and consistent application of and compliance with federal and state laws, Washington Administrative Code, agency policies and procedures, and the collective bargaining agreement;
• Providing expert-level labor relations guidance, advice and training to leaders of bargaining unit members;
• Developing, building, and nurturing positive and effective working relationships with union representatives and shop stewards;
• Managing and overseeing all investigatory activities into personnel issues, ensuring the process meets just cause standards;
• Overseeing all aspects of the agency’s recruitment and selection program.

NOTE: After successful completion of the review period and effectively demonstrating the ability to perform work independently, you may be eligible to telework up to two days per week, at the discretion of the Human Resources Director and with a telework agreement in place.

The ability to work remotely is dependent on the nature of the tasks and projects assigned and the presence of a remote work environment that is safe and has an appropriate level of reliable connectivity.

You must live within a reasonable commuting distance (less than 50 straight-line miles) to the DRS building in Tumwater, WA and must be willing and able to adjust your telework schedule for business needs, to attend mandatory training, etc., at the DRS facility.

Qualifications

What we’re looking for (required qualifications):

Proven experience providing senior-level advice, guidance and consultation to managers, leaders, and team members in all human resource operational areas.

Experience is typically gained from a minimum of five (5) years of full- time professional experience in a Washington state agency.

A bachelor’s degree in human resource management may substitute for up to two (2) years of experience. HR certification (SPHR/PHR, SHRM SCP/CP, PSHRA-SCP/CP) is highly desired;

Demonstrated experience in labor relations, including reading, understanding, interpreting, and applying collective bargaining agreements, as well as providing guidance, advice, and training to managers and leaders of bargaining unit team members.

Experience is typically gained through a minimum of two (2) years of full-time professional experience;

Proven experience providing supportive and engaged leadership for a high performing team, including setting goals and expectations, providing effective direction and feedback, promptly addressing issues, and conducting timely performance appraisals.

Experience is typically gained through a minimum of two (2) years of full-time professional experience);

Demonstrated ability to effectively provide expert-level analytical, problem solving and consultative skills in addressing highly complex human resource issues;

Expert-level knowledge of state and federal employment laws, Washington Administrative Code, agency policies, and human resource practices;

Strong ability to communicate complex, often sensitive information to multiple audiences and to vary messaging depending on the intended recipients;

Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Teams (version 2016 or newer); and

Demonstrated proficiency in the following competency areas:

Leading OthersProvides for and fosters a work environment that emphasizes the coaching, development, motivation, recognition, and accountability of others.

Sets clear goals and expectations, delegates work appropriately, and values and uses feedback; demonstrates the courage to address performance problems and issues promptly.

Treats team members equitably. Is seen as inquisitive and curious about the team’s performance and asks questions to gain further understanding of what the team needs to be successful.

Communication
Effectively conveys information in writing and through the spoken word, using language that is appropriate to both the complexity of the topic and the knowledge and understanding of the audience. Sees communication as a vital component of high performing teams.

Consultation
Employs expertise, credibility, and effective partnering to help customers and/or peers identify, evaluate, and resolve complex or sensitive issues and problems. Demonstrates willingness and initiative in partnering with peers and customers in order to achieve desired outcomes.

Judgment
Displays balanced thinking that combines data-based analysis, experience, and perspective while also considering decision impacts. Effectively weighs alternatives and makes decisions that incorporate facts, opinions, and other relevant information.

Peer Relationships
Finds common ground and solves problems through collaboration and candid interaction with peers. Is seen as a team player; recognizes the business concerns and perspectives of others. Gains the trust and support of peers by maintaining and strengthening relationships.

Ethics, Integrity, Values, and TrustEarns the trust, respect and confidence of others through consistent honesty, forthrightness, and professionalism in all interactions.

Keeps confidences and admits mistakes. Is seen as being direct and truthful in all situations.

Displays extremely high standards of integrity and ethical conduct and models the behaviors expected of others in the organization.

Functional and Technical Skills
Demonstrates a designated level of proficiency in technical skills or knowledge to successfully accomplish the job. Keeps up with current developments and trends in area(s) of expertise.

Learning and GrowthDemonstrates a growth mindset by actively seeking opportunities to learn, improve, and expand capabilities.

Displays curiosity about new ideas and perspectives and an openness to innovation, change, and feedback.

Takes responsibility for personal learning by identifying and communicating needs and challenges, and applying new knowledge to navigate systems, tools, and processes.

Reflects on experiences to identify strengths and areas for improvement, using learning to make government programs and processes more efficient and effective in serving the people of Washington.

Meeting the Needs of OthersDemonstrates empathy, flexibility, and responsiveness when interacting with customers, colleagues, and community members.

Understands that others have varied needs and perspectives and adapts communication and actions accordingly.

Builds relationships and collaborates to increase access, opportunity, and positive outcomes for all.

Balances and considers all parties’ needs when developing solutions, ensuring equity, respect, and service excellence in every interaction.

Additional Information

Be sure to read this entire section – We promise, it’ll be helpful!

How to Apply: Interested applicants who meet the qualifications and competencies in this announcement are encouraged to apply.

• To be considered for this position, please be sure to attach the following to your online application:
  
  1. A cover letter clearly describing how your knowledge, skills and abilities align with the job duties and qualifications of this position.
     
     
  2. A chronological resume outlining your experience to-date. Please keep in mind that professional or verifiable volunteer experience may be relevant.
     
     Applications without a cover letter and resume will not be considered.
     
     

Be sure to complete all sections of the on-line application and answer all supplemental questions. The work history section of the on-line application should be completed fully.

Application fields that say "see resume/attachment" will not be considered.Only those applicants whose background and experience most closely match the qualifications and competencies of this position will be considered for this opportunity.

References, Personnel File Review, and Background Checks

• If you are a preferred candidate for this position, a professional reference from your current or most recent supervisor will be required;
• If you are a current or recent state employee, we will also review your personnel file as part of our selection process;
• A job offer is contingent upon completion of a background check that includes a criminal record review.

Work Authorization

• Candidates who are offered a job with DRS must possess work authorization that does not require sponsorship by the employer for a visa now or in the future;

DRS complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements of the federal employment eligibility verification form, I-9.

The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form on the first day of employment.

• DRS does not use E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visitwww.uscis.gov.
• Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.

Certified Candidate Pool

• This recruitment may be used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.


Why Work for DRS? At DRS, we are one team. We administer eight public retirement systems, 15 retirement plans, and the Deferred Compensation Program, and we serve over 930,000 current and former public employees in Washington. Our customers include fire fighters, teachers and school employees, state and local government employees, and public safety and law enforcement officers.

Regardless of what our specific duties may be, we are all dedicated to one purpose: ensuring our members have the information, tools, expertise and services that ensure they receive the retirement benefits earned while in public service. We foster a diverse and inclusive environment where team members are fully engaged and supported in meeting (and exceeding) our customers’ expectations. All DRS leaders are focused on providing coaching, mentoring, resources and support that team members need to be successful.

DRS offers a generous benefits package that includes membership in the Public Employees Retirement System, health, dental and vision coverage and participation in the Deferred Compensation Program.

Also, as a public service employee you may also be eligible for student loan forgiveness. (See the Benefits tab at the top of this post for more information).

Other perks include:

• Flexible work schedules
• Infants at Work Program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Access to LinkedIn Learning
• Commitment to team member safety and wellness
• Community involvement and charitable giving opportunities
• Commute Trip Reduction Program
• Free Parking and EV Chargers available
  
  
Veteran's Preference: Applicants wishing to claim Veteran's Preference should attach a copy of their DD214 (Member 4 copy), NGB 22, or signed verification of service letter from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to their application. Please remove or redact any personally identifiable information such as social security numbers and year of birth. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.

The Washington State Department of Retirement Systems is an equal opportunity employer supporting diversity, equity and inclusion. DRS does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability.

If you need assistance with the online application or have questions regarding the recruitment, please contact Human Resource office at drs.recruitment@drs.wa.gov.Persons of disability needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this announcement in an alternate format, may call the Human Resources Office at (360) 664-7309 or TTY Relay Service at 711.

Come join the DRS team!