Humboldt County Office of Education: Director of Personnel Services (Merit System)

Notice: In July 2022 HCOE classified job descriptions were re-classified. We are working to get the classifications changed on individual job descriptions. A PDF mapping these changes can be found here. For questions please contact the HCOE Personnel Office at (707) 445-7039.

HCOE Job Description

Director of Personnel Services (Merit System)

Position Summary

Under general direction of the Superintendent and in coordination with the Personnel Commission, serves as Personnel Director for classified staff in conformance with merit system requirements; coordinates the activities of the Personnel Commission; and acts as Secretary to the Commission.  Sits on the Superintendent’s Cabinet.  Conducts all duties in conformance with Education Code, collective bargaining agreements, County Office of Education policies and Personnel Commission rules.  This is a 12-month classified management position.

Examples of Duties

  • Coordinates the recruitment of classified employees;
  • Coordinates testing of applicants as required;
  • Coordinates with Director of Instructional Leadership to provide professional development for classified staff;
  • Recommends screening and interview criteria for panels;
  • Facilitates first round employment interviews and arranges second round interviews with superintendent or designee;
  • Verifies completion of all steps in hiring process;
  • Provides orientation of new employees;
  • Provides information and assistance to prospective and current employees regarding their employment;
  • Advises managers on conducting exit interviews for separating employees;
  • Oversees the data system for all personnel records;
  • Monitors Prepares confidential documents for storage;
  • Provides guidance to department managers regarding effective evaluation techniques;
  • Supports and guide managers in employee behavior improvement plans and investigations;
  • Monitors salaries for comparison purposes;
  • Coordinates the activities of the Personnel Commission and acts as Secretary to the Commission;
  • Prepares classified job descriptions for Commission and Superintendent review;
  • Interviews classified employees regarding employee grievances;
  • Assists in the preparation of the Commission budget;
  • Advises the Commission on the provisions of Education Code, collective bargaining agreements, and County Office of Education policy;
  • Attends Personnel Commission meetings, appropriate assigned workshops and conferences;
  • Communicates with managers regarding job postings and application/interview process;
  • Collaborates with Webmaster in managing the Employee Handbook;
  • Other duties as assigned

Oversees Staff in the:

  • Preparation of all communication to the Personnel Commission, including, emails, letters, electronic and paper postings, agendas and meeting minutes;
  • Maintenance of electronic Personnel Commission files.
  • Preparation of confidential documents for storage;
  • Processing of paperwork for destruction of confidential documents;
  • Maintenance of performance evaluations;
  • Preparation and distribution of job announcements;
  • Advertising of position openings;
  • Organization and maintenance of all interview paperwork;
  • Processing of fingerprints, health clearances, and certifications, if applicable;
  • Preparation of employment contracts and coordinates personnel information with the payroll department;
  • Utilization of computer files to monitor professional growth, job placement, and seniority status;
  • Compilation and certification of mandated reports to state and federal agencies as required by law.

Employment Standards

Knowledge of:

  • Current principles and practices of personnel administration including recruitment, examinations, classification, salary schedules, employee and management relations, supervision, and training;
  • Employee selection procedures;
  • Affirmative action and EEO guidelines and requirements;
  • Effective supervision and evaluation techniques;
  • California Education Code provisions relating to personnel practices and procedures in the public school system.
  • Disability, unemployment and retirement programs applicable to county office personnel.

Ability to:

  • Work effectively as a member of the management team in carrying out the mission of the HCOE;
  • Coordinate, monitor, and maintain records for a program of personnel administration;
  • Answer inquiries and determine proper action or referral;
  • Work with and manage confidential information;
  • Prepare and monitor department budgets;
  • Collect and analyze technical information, conduct studies, and prepare reports;
  • Prepare correspondence;
  • Analyze complex problems and recommend solutions;
  • Communicate effectively and harmoniously with others;
  • Utilize a computer terminal to store and retrieve data;
  • Ensure accuracy and legality of all personnel department transactions;
  • Provide services in the office as well as in various sites throughout the County, sometimes serving multiple sites in a single workday;
  • Public speaking skills, group problem solving and leadership ability;
  • Communicate effectively in writing and the capacity to maintain personal demeanor during periods of peak work flow and perform efficiently within restricted timeframes are critical factors for success in this position.

Education & Experience Requirements

  • Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university and a minimum of four years responsible experience in personnel administration or any combination of education;
  • Specialized training, and experience totaling not less than eight (8) years in the field of personnel services;
  • Previous experience in a merit system organization or school system personnel department is desirable;
  • Previous supervisory or coordination experience required;
  • Must be fingerprinted with a satisfactory DOJ records check;
  • TB testing will be required upon employment;
  • Must have normal vision, corrected or uncorrected;
  • May be required to obtain first aid and CPR within first 6 months of employment;
  • May be required to drive for work. Must have a current CA driver’s license, and proof of insurance.

Physical Requirements

  • Work indoors and sit for long periods of time;
  • Daily oral and written communication;
  • Speaking and hearing ability to sufficiently hear over the phone and carry on routine conversations;
  • Operating a computer, calculator, copier, and other equipment that involves repetitive arm and hand movements;
  • Hand-eye-arm and finger dexterity;
  • Ability to distinguish between colors;
  • Visual acuity sufficient to recognize people, words and numbers;
  • Reaching and lifting up to forty (40) pounds.

Range: 10
Reviewed: Nov 7, 2008
Revised: May 2020

Administration Office

Natalie Carrigan
Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
707-445-7022

Press Inquiries

Natalie Carrigan
Executive Assistant to the Superintendent
707-445-7022

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