DSHS OOS Human Resource Consultant 1

State of Washington•Pierce County – Buckley, WA

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

DSHS OOS Human Resource Consultant 1 Are you ready to advance your HR career while making a real impact? Join the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) as a Human Resource Consultant 1 in the Office of the Secretary (OOS) at our Rainier School in Buckley, Washington. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in key HR areas such as hiring, benefits, and payroll, while learning from experienced professionals committed to your growth. As an entry-level consultant, you will serve as a primary point of contact for managers, employees, and the public, offering essential guidance on HR policies, state and federal laws, and employee rights. With strong leadership and a collaborative team behind you, you'll develop your HR skills and build a solid foundation for long-term success in public service. Note : This position has a mandatory in-office schedule of at least 2-days a week. Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs. Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.

Requirements

Knowledge of Federal and State HR laws.
Strong communication skills, both oral and written, to guide various stakeholders.
Excellent time management and organizational abilities, with a focus on meeting deadlines.
Ability to analyze problems and data to develop effective solutions.
Collaborative team player, able to work under pressure and handle interruptions.

Nice To Haves

Professionals with a bachelor’s degree in business, human resources, social or organizational behavioral sciences, or a related field. Note: Equivalent education and experience may substitute, year-for-year, for the required education.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary HR contact for Appointing Authorities, managers, employees, and the public, providing services in classification, compensation, benefits, leave, hiring, and retention.
Provide first-level advice on HR policies, guidelines, laws (WACs, RCWs), and CBAs, consulting with higher-level HR professionals on complex issues.
Oversee hiring processes, including SEIU Internal Transfer and WFSE Bid processes, advising managers on screening, interview questions, reference checks, and compensation for new hires.
Manage personnel/payroll actions for new hires, promotions, transfers, and other appointments, ensuring compliance with WACs, policies, and CBAs; resolve issues with Payroll and HRMS.
Conduct onboarding, maintain staff records, and ensure compliance with I-9, E-Verify, and other employment requirements; lead new employee orientations.
Assist employees with understanding and completing insurance, retirement, payroll, and other forms; resolve HR, Payroll, and retirement system issues.
Monitor and process eligibility for insurance, retirement, leave usage, and other employment statuses, and handle performance evaluations and employment verification.
Maintain personnel and medical files, generate reports, and serve as backup for team members; attend meetings and perform other duties as assigned.