Human Resources Analyst

County of Thurston•Olympia, WA

About The Position

Thurston County Human Resources is seeking a knowledgeable, solution-oriented Human Resources Analyst to provide professional-level support across a wide range of HR functions. The Analyst serves as a consultant to County leadership and employees, providing guidance on HR policies and practices and supporting compliance with employment laws. The role calls for sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to build collaborative relationships while handling sensitive or complex HR issues professionally. The position supports recruitment, classification, workplace investigations, employee relations, and labor relations. It is based in Olympia, Washington, in a quiet office environment, with most of the day spent seated at a personal computer. The position typically works Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though a specific schedule may be negotiated. Occasional travel may be required for meetings, training, or onsite investigations. The role involves daily interaction by phone, in person, and virtually with County staff and the public.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business, psychology, public administration, or a related field; additional experience may substitute for education year for year.
Three years of applicable experience in a human resources discipline.
Ability to use a personal computer and related software for word processing, analysis, information retrieval, and tracking.
Current Washington State driver’s license or an appropriate accommodation.

Nice To Haves

Comprehensive knowledge of state and federal employment guidelines and HR best practices.
Strong analytical abilities, including compiling, interpreting, and presenting information to support sound decision-making.
Knowledge of public-sector labor laws and disciplinary processes, including just cause and progressive discipline principles.
Ability to manage complex, confidential, and sensitive issues with discretion and professional judgment.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain complex information and provide expert advice.
Critical-thinking and problem-solving abilities, including assessing risk and recommending effective, appropriate corrective actions.

Responsibilities

Advise and assist hiring managers with recruitment and job offers, ensuring compliance with County procedures, policies, and employment regulations and supporting fair, nondiscriminatory hiring practices.
Serve as lead staff for departmental recruitment activities and provide guidance on day-to-day recruitment matters.
Administer the County recruitment software system, including posting job requisitions, troubleshooting user issues, monitoring workflows, participating in system testing, and improving processes.
Develop or oversee reviews of reclassification requests and develop new or updated classification specifications.
Conduct objective workplace investigations into harassment or discrimination claims by gathering and evaluating information, assessing evidence, documenting findings, drafting investigative reports, and recommending appropriate action.
Partner with managers on performance issues and misconduct allegations; advise on disciplinary processes, including just cause and progressive discipline, and draft disciplinary letters.
Interpret and consult on union labor agreements, personnel policies, and federal and state employment laws.

Benefits

Retirement plan
Pre-tax savings accounts
Comprehensive health care
Dental and vision care for employees and their families
Paid vacation for full-time regular employees
Paid holidays for full-time regular employees
Flexible work schedule options, including alternative or compressed schedules and/or remote working
Three voluntary deferred compensation plans
Flexible spending accounts for out-of-pocket health care and daycare expenses
Potential eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness