Director of Human Resources and Employee Relations - GCPS

$95,503 - $119,310/Yr

Garrett County Public Schools - Oakland, MD

Full-time - Director

Oakland, MD

Educational Services

About the position

The Director of Human Resources and Employee Relations serves as a strategic leader, promoting a collaborative and inclusive workplace. This role provides management oversight to all Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) programs and services related to human resource (HR) operations, human capital, and compliance. The role develops and drives human resources strategies that align with district goals and objectives and empowers the HR organization to provide effective and efficient customer service.

Responsibilities

• Focuses on recruiting, retaining, and compensating a diverse, adaptive workforce ensuring that the human resources policies and procedures are in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Leads recruitment efforts and ensures equitable hiring and promotion practices.
• Serves as the chief negotiator for collective bargaining agreements and foster positive union relationships.
• Develops and implements strategic plans to enhance workforce diversity, retention, and well-being.
• Addresses employee grievances and conflicts promptly and equitably.
• Oversees the administration of employee benefits, policies, and performance management systems.
• Ensures compliance with disciplinary processes, policies, and legal standards.
• Provides guidance to administrators on employee relations and performance management.
• Serves as system leader for Title IX coordination.
• Supervises the staff of human resources.
• Participates actively in the Superintendent's Leadership Team.
• Travels to State and other meetings as needed.
• Performs additional duties as assigned and adapt effectively to organizational needs.

Requirements

• Knowledge of the principles and practices of public school system policies and human resources programs.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulatory requirements applicable to the GCPS human resources programs and compliance such as Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), EEOC regulations, Title VII, and Title IX, employment laws including Fair Labor Standards Act, and collective bargaining requirements.
• Hold a master's degree in human resources, business administration, education, or a related field.
• Minimum of at least five (5) years of administrative or supervisory experience directing organizational management, strategic planning and implementation, preferably in public education.
• Hold a valid Administrator II certification - preferred.
• Possess certification in human resources (e.g., SHRM, HRCI, IPMA) - preferred.
• Ability to manage fiscal, physical, and human resources necessary to carry out the diverse functions and programs of the department.
• Display strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills necessary to establish and maintain effective working relationships with various groups served by the school district, the School Board, and federal/state/county officials.
• Maintain flexibility to work beyond standard hours as needed including attending Board of Education meetings.

Nice-to-haves

• Hold a valid Administrator II certification - preferred.
• Possess certification in human resources (e.g., SHRM, HRCI, IPMA) - preferred.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits include healthcare (medical, dental, vision), life insurance, and participation in the Maryland Retirement and Pension Plan, with optional 403(b) contributions.
• Employees receive paid sick leave, personal days, vacation, and access to wellness programs and employee assistance resources.