Human Resources Supervisor

Are you a forward-thinking HR leader with a vision for modernizing recruitment and assessment practices to attract and retain a talented workforce dedicated to public service?

Do you have the strategic insight and experience to lead complex classification and compensation initiatives that are focused on promoting organizational alignment, internal equity, and operational effectiveness?

Are you an inspiring and collaborative leader who thrives on developing high-performing teams, championing innovation, and guiding staff through meaningful organizational change?

Contra Costa County Human Resources is a forward-looking organization offering meaningful projects in a collaborative team environment. This role is your opportunity to drive impactful initiatives while growing professionally in a supportive and innovative setting.

ABOUT THE POSITION

Under general direction, plans, organizes, and coordinates the work of the Recruitment, Classification and Compensation team within the Talent and Development Division of the central County Human Resources Department; personally performs the most complex and sensitive technical assignments; supervises team members and acts as in-house consultant to County management and departmental staff; is considered to be an expert in their field and requires very little supervision other than for policy direction; and performs related duties as required.

For Recruitment, Classification and Compensation

• Oversees division staff on the development, administration, and evaluation of selection processes for departmental and Countywide classifications, conducting classification and/or position analysis, and compensation studies. Serves as a subject matter expert on in-house exam development and provides guidance on developing effective, equitable, and compliant examinations.
• Supervises the division staff in advising departments on reclassification requests, salary adjustments, and organizational restructuring, ensuring all recommendations comply with County practices and policies and memorandum of understanding with County labor partners.
• Performs or coordinates special projects related to process improvement, recruitment, classification and/or compensation involving the planning, research, development, and implementation.

WHY DOES THIS ROLE MATTER?

The Recruitment, Classification and Compensation team plays a critical role in shaping the workforce that serves Contra Costa County’s diverse communities. As a key leader within the Human Resources Department’s Talent and Development Division, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to guide, inspire, and develop a talented team of three Principal Human Resources Analysts, ten Human Resources Analysts, and five Human Resources Technicians. With responsibility for supporting 25 County departments and approximately 12,000 employees, this position offers a unique opportunity to influence workforce strategies, strengthen organizational partnerships, and make a lasting impact across one of the Bay Area’s largest public service organizations.

This leadership role extends well beyond overseeing day-to-day operations. The successful candidate will help shape the strategic direction of recruitment, classification, and compensation services while championing innovation, operational excellence, and continuous improvement. Through collaborative leadership and trusted partnerships with County departments, this individual will drive forward-thinking approaches to talent acquisition, workforce planning, classification and compensation, and organizational effectiveness. For an accomplished human resources professional who thrives on developing people, leading changes, and transforming service delivery, this is an exceptional opportunity to build on a strong foundation, elevate team performance, and help shape the future of Contra Costa County’s workforce.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL

• Bring strong public-sector recruitment expertise, especially in exam development, validation and evaluation of selection methods in a merit-system environment.
• Understand classification and compensation principles to guide complex studies, evaluate recommendations, and help establish sound Countywide frameworks.
• Be a strong supervisor and coach who can set expectations, develop staff, delegate effectively, and help emerging leaders move beyond the “super analyst” role.
• Lead change without creating unnecessary friction - explaining the why, listening well, building buy-in, and helping teams move together once direction is set.
• Use strategic and analytical thinking to identify what is not working, examine data and process, and turn problems into practical improvements.
• Communicate complex or difficult information clearly, calmly and respectfully to candidates, departments, labor partners, executives and other stakeholders.
• Build trust through emotional intelligence, confidence, openness and collaboration in a non-hierarchical, team-oriented HR culture.
• Balance persistence with pragmatism: recognize when change is possible, when timing matters, and how to keep progress moving in a complex public organization.
• Be comfortable presenting and training, and produce clear, logical, and professional written work.
• Write clearly and independently, exercise confidentiality, political and interpersonal sensitivity, and communicate the “why” behind decisions in language people can understand.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Professional and Technical Expertise - Applies technical knowledge, skills, abilities (KSAs), and subject matter expertise related to the job
• Leading and Developing Others - Supports others in stretching and expanding their capabilities in addition to guides and encourages others to accomplish a common goal
• Initiative - Proactively completes outcomes or tasks
• Adaptability - Evaluates and adjusts behavior, priorities, and methods effectively when circumstances, requirements, or stakeholder needs change
• Collaboration - Engaging others for input, contribution, and shared responsibility for outcomes
• Communication - Exchanges information clearly and respectfully, actively listens, considers differing perspectives, and adapts messages, methods, and channels to promote shared understanding or effective action
• Written Communication - Produces well-organized, professional, and audience-appropriate communications that support informed decision-making, promote transparency, and advance organizational objectives
• Design Thinking – Practices a human-centered, constantly improving approach to problem-solving and innovation
• Political and Organizational Savvy - Working skillfully with policies, procedures, and protocols across organizational levels and boundaries
• Professional Integrity and Ethics - Acts honestly, impartially, and consistently in compliance with the intent of laws, policies, professional standards, and the public interest
• Strategic Perspective - Evaluates immediate actions in context of achieving long range objectives

THE COUNTY

Nestled in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area’s East Bay region, Contra Costa County offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty, vibrant communities, economic opportunity, and rich history. Established in 1850 as one of California’s original 27 counties, Contra Costa encompasses 716 square miles, 19 cities, and numerous unincorporated communities, serving a diverse population of more than 1.16 million residents. From its historic county seat in Martinez to the scenic slopes of Mount Diablo, the County is known for its welcoming communities, thriving economy, and outstanding quality of life. With a dynamic mix of industries, including healthcare, education, technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and professional services, Contra Costa County offers the advantages of a major metropolitan region while maintaining the distinctive character and charm of its communities.

Contra Costa County is an ideal place to build both a rewarding career and a fulfilling life. Residents enjoy a mild Mediterranean climate, picturesque waterfronts, thriving downtowns, and more than 1,200 miles of hiking trails throughout an extensive network of parks and open spaces. The County's longstanding commitment to environmental preservation, thoughtful growth, and community well-being reflects its dedication to creating a sustainable and vibrant future. As one of California’s most populous and diverse counties, Contra Costa offers public service professionals a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact while enjoying an exceptional work-life balance. Whether drawn by its natural beauty, cultural diversity, recreational opportunities, or commitment to public service, those who choose Contra Costa County will discover a community where they can thrive personally and professionally.

REMOTE WORK ELIGIBILITY

This position is eligible to work remotely for no more than 50% of each workweek. However, in the short term, the Human Resources Supervisor is expected to be in the office daily for the first 4 weeks. Future remote work arrangements may be discussed after hire based on dynamic business needs. Additionally, the Human Resources Supervisor must live within 200 miles of Martinez, California. These policies are non-negotiable.

Education: Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in human resources public administration, business administration, or a closely related field.

Experience: Four (4) years of full-time experience in professional human resources work, at least one (1) year of which must have been in a public agency and one (1) year as a lead or supervisor.

Substitution: One (1) year of graduate coursework in human resources, business or public administration or a closely related field at an accredited college or university may be substituted for either the required undergraduate major or for six (6) months of the required experience. Additional qualifying experience of the type noted above may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis up to a maximum of four (4) years. There is no substitute for the one (1) year in a public agency or one (1) year as a lead or supervisor.

All statements made on the application, resume, and supplemental materials are subject to verification. False statements may be cause for immediate disqualification, removal from eligibility list, or discharge from employment. Certificates, resumes, and/or cover letters must be uploaded with your application through this applicant tracking system.

Minimum Qualifications (MQ) – (Pass/Fail) This evaluation step includes a review of candidates’ written materials to determine candidates’ ability to meet the MQ’s Candidates who pass the “Minimum Qualifications (MQ)” step will be invited to participate in the Candidates Assessment Exam.

Candidate Assessment Exam – (100%) The Candidate Assessment Exam will include the following components.

1. Writing Skills Exercise(22%) to evaluate candidates’ knowledge and skills for the position based on the competencies Written Communication, Professional and Technical Expertise, Design Thinking, and Strategic Perspective.

1. Behavioral Based Interview(78 %) to evaluate candidates’ knowledge and skills for the position based on the competencies Professional and Technical Expertise, Leading and Developing Others, Initiative, Adaptability, Collaboration, Communication, Design Thinking, Political and Organizational Savvy, Professional Integrity and Ethics, and Strategic Perspective.

The Exam may include, but is not limited to, an assessment of the candidate’s knowledge, skills, and abilities including the competencies listed in this document.

The Exam will be conducted remotely via a video conference platform each component will be scheduled separately. In the Candidate Assessment Exam , candidates must achieve an average passing score of 70% or higher on each of the competencies, as well as an overall passing score of 70% or higher.

Successful candidates will be placed on an eligible list with Contra Costa County for further consideration based on scores achieved in the Oral Exam step of the selection process. The eligible list established for this recruitment may remain in effect for six (6) months.

In coordination with RGS, Contra Costa Human Resources Department may change the examination steps noted above in accordance with the County’s Personnel Management Regulations and accepted selection practices.

For recruitment specific questions, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io. For any technical issues, please contact the GovernmentJobs’ applicant support team for assistance at View phone number on click.appcast.io.

CONVICTION HISTORY

After you receive a conditional job offer, you will be fingerprinted, and your fingerprints will be sent to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The resulting report of your conviction history (if any) will be used to determine whether the nature of your conviction conflicts with the specific duties and responsibilities of the job for which you have received a conditional job offer. If a conflict exists, you will be asked to present any evidence of rehabilitation that may mitigate the conflict, except when federal or state regulations bar employment in specific circumstances. Having a conviction history does not automatically preclude you from a job with Contra Costa County. If you accept a conditional job offer, the Human Resources department will contact you to schedule a fingerprinting appointment.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKER

All Contra Costa County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law. Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

It is the policy of Contra Costa County to consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or other protected category under the law.

Neither Regional Government Services nor Contra Costa County are responsible for failure of internet forms or email in submitting your application. Candidates who may require special assistance in any phase of the application or selection process should advise RGS by emailing View email address on click.appcast.io.

Contra Costa County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.