Chief Human Resources Officer

Washington County•Hillsboro, OR

About The Position

This position will remain open until filled, with the first review of applications beginning the week of Monday, April 27, 2026. Applications submitted after this date will be reviewed as needed. Washington County is currently recruiting for a Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) to provide strategic leadership for Washington County’s Human Resources Department and serve as a key partner to the County Administrative Office and departments across the organization. In partnership with the executive leadership team, the CHRO helps shape and advance the County’s vision, mission, and goals while guiding countywide workforce strategy and strengthening HR’s role as a trusted, integrated advisor. Reporting to an Assistant County Administrator, this position leads comprehensive programs spanning talent, learning, labor relations, compensation, benefits, HR technology and risk management. The role calls for a systems thinker and collaborative leader who builds strong relationships, communicates with clarity, and aligns HR initiatives with countywide priorities. The CHRO works closely with HR subject matter experts and partners in the Office of Access and Opportunity, Finance, and Legal to develop consistent, practical policies and unified communication. They understand and value that the work of Human Resources touches every service and employee of the organization.

Requirements

Knowledge of employment law and its application to support strategic and operational Human Resources practices in the public sector
Knowledge of Strategic Human Resources best practices and techniques that guide organizational planning, workforce strategy, and HR administration
Knowledge of organizational and management practices used to analyze and evaluate programs, policies, operational needs, and the principles of budget development, fiscal administration, and financial control
Skills to build collaborative relationships and effectively deescalate challenging situations through clear, respectful, and timely crucial conversations.
Skills to develop and execute short and long‑-term‑ plans with clear goals, actions, and performance measures, and to collaborate with leaders and staff to implement organizational policies, procedures, and initiatives
Skills to prepare and deliver clear, well organized‑ presentations and written materials, tailoring communication to audience needs, including presenting information to the Washington County Board of Commissioners, partner agencies, and internal stakeholders
Ability to provide strategic oversight and guidance on labor relations, including advising leadership on collective bargaining strategy, contract administration, and approaches that support effective, collaborative labor management‑ relationships
Ability to analyze complex problems, evaluate alternative solutions, anticipate potential outcomes, and implement recommendations that support organizational goals.
Ability to lead, motivate, and develop a team of HR professionals with varied responsibilities, applying advanced performance management practices to set clear expectations, coach effectively, and drive high-quality results
Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulations to guide decision making‑ and ensure compliance.
Associate’s degree in a related field AND a minimum of 10 years relevant HR leadership experience, including 4 years in executive or department/division leadership.
Bachelor’s degree in a related field AND a minimum of 8 years of relevant HR leadership experience, including 4 years in executive or department/division leadership.
Master’s degree in a related field AND a minimum of 6 years of relevant HR leadership experience, including 4 years in executive or department/division leadership.
Must have the ability to arrange for timely transportation to attend required appointments and meetings at off-site locations.
Completion of a comprehensive background check.

Nice To Haves

Certification in Human Resources Management and/or Human Resources specialty

Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership for Washington County’s Human Resources Department
Serve as a key partner to the County Administrative Office and departments across the organization
Help shape and advance the County’s vision, mission, and goals
Guide countywide workforce strategy
Strengthen HR’s role as a trusted, integrated advisor
Lead comprehensive programs spanning talent, learning, labor relations, compensation, benefits, HR technology and risk management
Build strong relationships
Communicate with clarity
Align HR initiatives with countywide priorities
Develop consistent, practical policies and unified communication