Director of Human Resources

Applicants must submit a resume, and cover letter with salary requirements     Salary range is $110,300 - $130,850 based on experience

This is an in person position - not remote.    Posting Closes 9/30/2024

Purpose/Customer Impact:  This member of the Senior Management Team is responsible for providing strategic direction in all aspects of human resources and workplace safety and provides general guidance to all managers regarding matters of the collective bargaining agreement and personnel policies and procedures. Responsibilities include workforce planning, compensation administration, benefits, unemployment administration, labor relations and collective bargaining, workers' compensation and safety, total disability management, employee assistance and engagement programs, employment recruitment and retention, performance management including disciplinary actions, personnel policies and procedures creation and improvement, and training and development. Requires independent judgment to ensure Portland Water District’s (PWD’s) compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Participates in the development of management plans and programs at PWD. Has direct supervisory responsibility for department employees. This position must maintain strict confidentiality as required by law.

Reporting Relationships:  

Reports to:  General Manager                                                                               

Direct Reports:  Human Resources Staff                                                                               

Interrelationships: Daily contact with employees. Monthly contact with the Board of Trustees. Regular contact with external consultants, service providers, labor Business Agent, labor counsel, etc.

Independent Action: High degree of independent authority in managing Human Resources. Consult with the Management Team and the General Manager on broad issues affecting PWD. Ensure effectiveness and growth of benefit programs.

Job Duties:

• Provides strategic guidance and direction on all aspects of human resources and workplace safety, including compensation, benefits, labor relations including participating in labor negotiations as management’s representative, workers compensation, employee relations, and training. Ensure compliance with applicable Federal, State, and Local regulations and PWD policies, procedures, and work requirements.
• Serves as a resource and liaison to the Board of Trustees for all human resource activities.
• Establishes and maintains effective and open communications with all employees in the organization. This includes, but is not limited to coaching, training and mentoring; recruitment and retention guidance; policy and program explanation and clarification; and conflict resolution.
• Oversees the Human Resources Department, which includes supervising employees, establishing, achieving, and reporting on departmental goals, and recording and maintaining systems that support organizational needs that comply with laws that govern human resources functions.  Supervises employees responsible for safety, welfare and wellness, employee engagement, benefits administration, and employment recruitment and retention.
• Provides coaching, training, and expertise in matters relating to performance management, including but not limited to training and advising managers, supervisors, and employees; oversees the probationary evaluation process, annual performance evaluations, and performance management including disciplinary issues and documentation.
• Ensures employee engagement and recognition activities including events are successfully accomplished.
• Oversees the key human resources areas of benefits and compensation; recruitment, selection, and retention; training and workforce development; worker’s compensation; and total disability management.
• Maintains a solid understanding of federal and state laws, particularly those related to employment, disability, and benefit plans.
• Designs, analyzes, negotiates, and administers comprehensive and cost-effective benefit plans.
• Acts as the primary contact within the organization for labor relations. This includes representing management in union negotiations, managing grievances, arbitrations, and communications with the Business Agent, and acting as the primary contact with PWD’s labor attorney.
• Solicits feedback and reviews  metrics and analytics to measure the effectiveness of employee services programs and engagement strategies.

Physical Requirements: Extended keyboard usage, sitting, telephone usage, bending, twisting, clear verbal and written communications, reaching, driving, visual accuracy, lifting (maximum 25 lbs.).

Minimum Requirements: An individual must be able to perform Essential Duties satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, public administration, or related field required. A Master’s Degree is preferred.
• SPHR-SCP or PHR-SCP certification and certification in labor relations (NPELRA) preferred.
• Seven (7) or more years of increasingly responsible human resource and labor relations experience that includes supervisory experience. 
• Direct experience and responsibility for union labor relations and experience in the public sector preferred.
• Experience in all aspects of Human Resource Management including benefits administration, compensation, employee relations, recruitment and retention, performance management, policy development, and training.
• Strong communication skills; written, oral, interpersonal, and presentation skills required. Ability to write effective proposals, job descriptions, and reports and make clear presentations in group settings.
• Ability to collaborate, manage conflict, build consensus among diverse groups, and implement team-based performance initiatives.
• Ability to analyze and maintain cost-effective compensation, benefit, and safety programs. Experience in job analysis and performance evaluation programs.
• Proven success and experience in effective recruitment and retention, implementation of diversity programs, and fostering a positive workplace culture.
• Knowledge of and experience with complying with Federal and State laws affecting human resources.
• Ability to comprehend complex problems, use judgment and tact to work towards resolutions, and manage projects through to successful completion.   
• Familiarity with Human Resource Information Systems and able to effectively utilize MS Office Software.
• Possess and maintain a valid State of Maine Driver’s License, with a satisfactory driving record.