Human Resources Manager

Company Description The Town of Ithaca, located on the shores of beautiful Cayuga Lake in Tompkins County, New York, is home to more than 18,000 residents. It hosts Cornell University and Ithaca College, contributing to a vibrant academic and cultural atmosphere. The area offers an outstanding medical center, high-quality schools, and diverse cultural resources. Residents and employees enjoy a clean, scenic environment that supports a strong quality of life and community engagement.

Role Description The Human Resources Manager is a full-time, on-site position located in Ithaca, NY, responsible for overseeing and coordinating HR functions for the Town of Ithaca. Day-to-day duties include managing recruitment and selection processes, onboarding new employees, and administering compensation, benefits, and leave programs. The role involves advising supervisors and staff on HR policies, employment laws, and performance management, as well as handling employee relations, conflict resolution, and disciplinary procedures. The Human Resources Manager maintains personnel records, develops and updates HR policies, supports training and professional development initiatives, and collaborates with leadership to align HR strategies with organizational goals. The position also requires preparing HR reports, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, and contributing to a respectful, inclusive workplace culture.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in core HR functions such as recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and employee relations.
• Knowledge of employment law, labor regulations, and HR policies, preferably within public sector or municipal environments.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills, with the ability to build trust and collaborate with employees at all levels.
• Proficiency in HR information systems, recordkeeping, and general office software (e.g., MS Office, HRIS platforms).
• Ability to analyze HR data, prepare reports, and use sound judgment in problem-solving and decision-making.
• Experience designing or supporting training, organizational development, or employee engagement initiatives.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field; relevant HR certifications (e.g., SHRM-CP, PHR) are a plus.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and non-discriminatory practices, and to maintaining confidentiality and professional ethics.

To apply, email cover letter and resume to jdrake@townithacany.gov 

Also required:  File online application at https://www.tompkinscivilservice.org/civilservice/apply/9845

Filing deadline: October 7, 2026, or open until filled

Questions directed to: Judy Drake, Human Resources Manager (607) 273-1721x115 or via email: jdrake@townithacany.gov 

Civil Service Exam:   Provisional appointment pending future exam or Non-competitive HELPS classification

Salary Hiring Rate:      $109,699 -2027 hire rate based on 40 hour per week schedule

Desired Start Date:       January 4, 2027

Office Location:          Town Hall, 215 N. Tioga Street, Ithaca, NY        

Benefits:                      Paid Holidays, Vacation, Sick and Personal time, Health and Life Insurance, NYS Retirement pension, free onsite parking. Optional programs: Dental and AFLAC insurance and Retirement 457b and Roth. Security of stable position with hours that allow for work life balance.