Director of Human Resources

Salary

$132,163.20 - $168,708.80 Annually

Location

Yakima, WA

Job Type

Full-time

Department

Human Resources

Division

Human Resources

Opening Date

11/22/2025

Bargaining Unit

NONE

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions
  
  

Initial candidate eligibility is based on the job application and any accompanying documentation. It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide sufficient information and details within the body of the application (education and work experience sections) to permit the City of Yakima to properly evaluate the candidate's qualification, abilities and experience as it relates to the requirements of the position. For calculation of experience, one year of experience equals 12 months with a minimum of 173.33 hours per month. Additional required documents must be attached. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of application fields.

Overview And Minimum Class Requirements

The City of Yakima is seeking a Director of Human Resources experienced in public HR administration, labor laws, civil service, benefits and safety regulations.

The Director of Human Resources must be an effective communicator with strong conflict resolution, negotiation and public speaking skills. He/She must be a strategic planner, analytical thinker and quick problem-solver under pressure.

Responsibilities

This position is responsible for providing leadership, and assisting in and/or overseeing a variety of human resource management functions including but not limited to:

• Directing HR programs: employment, training, compensation, collective bargaining, benefits, and employee assistance.
• Serving on labor negotiation teams; preparing materials and cost analyses.
• Managing grievances, disciplinary actions, and workplace counseling.
• Administering employee benefits and health programs; managing broker relationships and medical reserve fund.
• Overseeing onsite medical clinic operations.
• Leading investigations, policy development, and special projects.
• Managing self-insured Workers’ Compensation Program and safety training.
• Supporting recruitment, testing, and civil service processes.
• Administering performance evaluations and deferred compensation programs.
• Preparing and managing department budget.
• Conducting job analysis, training programs, and employee orientations.
• Providing city-wide HR communications and reports to City leadership.
  
  

This position reports to the City Manager.

Click here to view the full classification details.

Minimum Class Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Personnel Management, Human Resources Management, Psychology, Industrial Relations, Public Administration, or a related field, plus seven (7) years of progressively responsible professional human resources experience including two (2) years lead/supervisory experience. Additional human resources management and supervisory experience may substitute for educational requirements.

Licenses, Registrations And/Or Certificates

Certification as Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification from HR Certification Institute (HRCI) or Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). Certification as Certified Labor Relations Professional (CLRP) from National Public Employer Labor Relations Association is also highly desired.

How To Apply

Fully complete an online application AND include a resume and cover letter addressing your interest in the position and top qualifications.

All applications must be completed in full. The resume does not substitute for education and/or work history information required in the application.

The position will be open until filled with a priority application review deadline of 4:00 PM, December 10th.

The City of Yakima is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

The City Of Yakima Is a Premier Employer In The Yakima Valley With Extensive Opportunities For Training And Growth. The City Offers a Competitive Benefit Package Including

• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision coverage
• FREE healthcare clinic!
• WA State PERS pension plan
• 3% contribution to a 457 deferred compensation plan
• PTO accrual starting at 19.00 hrs/mo (Part-time positions are pro-rated to the percentage of the position)
• 11 paid holidays
• Longevity pay incentive (after 5 years)
• Life Insurance
• Much more!
  
  

The pay range listed for this position is establish through the City of Yakima’s Master Pay Ordinance in accordance with the Municipal Code and/or the applicable collective bargaining agreement. New employees generally start at step A with progression through the steps based on merit and successful performance evaluation.

City of Yakima employees are paid and accrue benefits on a monthly basis.

01

Did you attach a resume and cover letter as required in the job posting?

• Yes
• No
  
  

02

Did you clearly document your work history in the Work Experience section of your application including dates, titles and duties for each position/classification held?

• Yes
• No
  
  

03

What is your highest level of education?

• High School Diploma/GED
• Some College
• Associates Degree
• Bachelors Degree
• Masters Degree
• Technical/Trade Certification
• None of the above
  
  

04

Do you possess a Bachelor's degree in Personnel Management, Human Resources Management, Psychology, Industrial Relations, Public Administration, or a related field?

• Yes
• No
  
  

05

How much progressively responsible professional human resources experience do you possess?

• None
• Less than 7 years
• At least 7 years and less than 9 years
• at least 9 years
  
  

06

If you have the experience above, enter here the name(s) of the employer(s) and your job title(s). (Be sure application clearly outlines your job duties and lists both the months and years of experience in each position.)

07

How much human resources lead/supervisory experience do you possess?

• None
• Less than 2 years
• At least 2 years
  
  

08

If you have the experience above, enter here the name(s) of the employer(s) and your job title(s).

09

Please describe particular skills, experience or training which you believe BEST qualifies you for this position.

Required Question

Employer City of Yakima

Address 129 N. 2nd Street

Yakima, Washington, 98901

Phone (509) 575-6090

Website http://www.yakimawa.gov