Human Resources Director

Winona County•Winona, MN

13d

About The Position

Winona County’s Human Resources Director administers the county’s human resources and personnel administration system under the administrative direction of the County Administrator. The Director oversees diverse HR functions and operations, serves as the County’s chief advisor on personnel matters, and is a member of the county management team. The role provides advice to the County Administrator, County Board, management, and employees; interprets policies, statutes, and contracts; coordinates special projects that may span multiple departments; and may direct department heads on behalf of the County Administrator as needed. The work is complex and involves managerial and administrative responsibilities, frequent decision-making, and leadership of HR staff. Work is usually performed in an office setting. The position oversees strategic planning, staffing, employee relations, compensation and benefits, labor relations, payroll, training, compliance, HRIS and records management, and risk management. It develops and administers personnel policies, compensation strategies, and workforce initiatives, and directs employee and retiree benefits programs. The Director also leads labor relations, recruitment and onboarding, employee and leadership development, workplace safety, and workforce planning and retention initiatives. The role oversees personnel data integrity, payroll maintenance, compensation studies, and market analyses, and may lead additional departments or functions as assigned. The position starts at $4,388.78 biweekly, depending on qualifications, with advancement up to $5,804.88 biweekly. Applications are accepted until 4:00 p.m. November 30, 2026; applicants should attach a cover letter and resume to the online application.

Requirements

A four-year degree from an accredited college or university in Human Resources Management, Business/Public Administration, or a related field, with three years of progressively responsible work experience directly in Human Resources Management; or five years of related experience.
At least three years of supervisory experience.
Experience in labor relations.
Ability to solve problems under stressful circumstances.
Ability to conduct labor negotiations, including grievance, mediation, and arbitration.
Ability to promote and maintain harmony in the workplace.
Knowledge of County programs, operations, policies, and procedures.
Knowledge of insurance plans, pay and compensation, and benefits administration.
Knowledge of state and federal statutes governing public-sector employment.
Knowledge of Integrated Financial System software and associated programs.
Knowledge of budget preparation and control procedures.
Knowledge of comprehensive human resource program management.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, verbally and in writing, including speaking, presenting, and interacting with composure, professionalism, and discretion.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, co-workers, elected and appointed officials, and public officials and public and private agencies.
Ability to collect and analyze data, draw conclusions effectively, and make sound decisions.
Effective supervisory and leadership skills.
Knowledge of human resource program management principles.
Proficiency with computer software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook.
Ability to prepare and administer budgets.
Knowledge of and ability to interpret and apply applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
Must pass the required background check.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing and negotiating contracts is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

Oversee all Human Resources functions and operations, including strategic planning, staffing, employee relations, compensation and benefits, labor relations, payroll, training, compliance, HRIS and records management, and risk management.
Provide leadership and development for HR staff and perform related duties and special projects as assigned.
Advise the County Administrator, County Board, management, and employees on human resources matters.
Ensure compliance with employment laws, labor agreements, personnel policies, payroll regulations, data privacy laws, HIPAA, records retention standards, and administrative procedures.
Develop and administer personnel policies, compensation strategies, and workforce initiatives that support organizational effectiveness, employee engagement, and long-term goals.
Direct employee and retiree benefits programs, including insurance, wellness, workers’ compensation, unemployment, and Section 125 plans; oversee compliance, vendor negotiations, claims management, and plan evaluations.
Lead labor relations activities, including collective bargaining, contract administration, grievance resolution, mediation, and interpretation of labor agreements and compensation policies.
Oversee county-wide recruitment, onboarding, training, leadership development, compliance, workplace safety, and employee development initiatives.
Collaborate with departments on workforce planning and retention strategies.
Oversee HRIS administration, personnel data integrity, payroll maintenance, compensation studies, and market analyses.
Coordinate special projects that may span multiple departments and direct department heads on behalf of the County Administrator as needed.
Interpret policies, statutes, and contracts.
Prepare and administer budgets and manage budget control procedures.