NATURE OF WORK This is highly responsible professional and administrative work managing the activities and operations of the Human Resources Department. Leads, directs, develops and coordinates the activities of Human Resources functions throughout the County. Ensures compliance with and implementation of numerous policies, laws and contracts in the recruitment, management and retention of County staff. Serves as resource for the County Board with accountability under M.S. 375.56-375.71. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Collaborates with department heads and incumbents to prepare job descriptions for County positions. Manages the recruitment process online and though advertisement for open positions, including rating or testing of applicants. Develops interview procedures and ratings for use in selecting new employees. Participates in candidate interviews and selection. Provides orientation to new employees. Manages the entry of employee data in the Human Resources Information System (HRIS), PERA, and numerous benefits management systems. Administers employee salaries, labor contracts, personnel rules and regulations and management policies. Coordinates and administers all County provided insurance benefits, and the Worker s Compensation claims process. Coordinates training opportunities for employees and department heads. Develops and manages compensation plans for County employees and pay equity review. Develops and maintains the Personnel Policy manual for all employees. Monitors and ensures the organization s compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, and recommended best practices; reviews and modifies policies and practices to maintain compliance. Develops guidelines for department head self-evaluations and for evaluation of their staff. Assists department heads in administering disciplinary procedures according to policies, contracts and legislation. Serves on the Negotiating Committee to represent the County in all labor negotiations. Serves on the County Personnel Committee to hear grievances, resolve problems and make policy suggestions for department heads, elected officials and commissioners. Act as County's representative in unemployment and worker's compensation claims and appeals. Acts as the County's Responsible Authority under the MN Government Data Practices Act. Develops and implements the departmental budget. Assigns tasks to department staff. Performs other work as required. Responsible to observe all Watonwan County safety and health rules and to apply the principles of accident prevention in day-to-day duties. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Training and Experience Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in Public Administration, Human Resources, Business Management or a closely related field. Two years of experience in a Human Resources field is preferred. An equivalent combination of experience and education will be considered.