Human Resources Director

Ogle County, IllinoisEmployment Opportunity: Human Resources DirectorFull‑Time • Exempt • Oregon, Illinois Salary Range: $80,000–$100,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience Application Deadline: November 20, 2026 About the OpportunityOgle County is seeking an experienced, motivated, and highly professional Human Resources Director to lead and administer the County's HR functions. This leadership position will work closely with the Ogle County Board to manage the County's Human Resources Department, improving efficiencies and supporting all County departments. Ogle County is a large, mostly rural county of just over 50,000 residents, with diverse businesses and manufacturing sectors, located in northern Illinois. The County is home to three state parks, a state forest, and the scenic Rock River. Oregon, Illinois, the county seat, lies 26 miles southwest of Rockford. Rochelle, the County's largest city, is 25 miles south of Rockford. Position OverviewThe Human Resources Director oversees the County's human resources programs, policies, and operations. The Director serves as a professional resource for elected officials, department heads, supervisors, and employees while ensuring consistent, compliant, and effective HR practices across the organization. This role includes leadership responsibilities in:Recruitment, hiring, and retentionEmployee benefits and compensation administrationPolicy development and implementationLabor relations and collective bargaining supportRegulatory compliance under federal and Illinois employment lawsWorkforce planning and organizational development Key Responsibilities Direct and manage HR programs, policies, procedures, and personnel matters.Advise County leadership on HR issues, including employment law, policy interpretation, and collective bargaining agreements.Coordinate recruitment, onboarding, and separation processes; support position classification and compensation evaluations.Administer benefits, including insurance enrollments, IMRF participation, and related documentation.Support labor relations, contract negotiations, and workforce planning initiatives.Prepare reports, recommendations, and presentations for the County Board's HR & Risk Management Committee.Provide supervisor training and guidance on HR procedures and ADP Workforce Now functions.Maintain strict confidentiality and exercise independent judgment in sensitive matters. Required QualificationsBachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business or Public Administration, or a related field.At least three years of professional human resources experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.Strong knowledge of HR principles, federal and state employment laws (i.e. FMLA, FLSA, ADA, COBRA, PL4A, VESSA, IWPCA, etc.), organizational development, and best practices.Excellent communication skills and the ability to build effective working relationships at all organizational levels.Proficiency in Microsoft Office and HRIS systems.Ability to maintain confidentiality, exercise sound judgment, and manage multiple priorities. Preferred QualificationsExperience in collective bargaining, labor relations, and contract administration.Experience with compensation and benefits program management.Experience in recruitment strategy, retention planning, and workforce development.Familiarity with ADP Workforce Now HRIS. Work Schedule & TravelRegular schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional evening meetings as needed. Travel is primarily within Oregon and Rochelle, with minimal travel elsewhere for professional development. Compensation & BenefitsAnnual salary range: $80,000–$100,000, depending on qualifications.Comprehensive benefits package including health and dental insurance.Participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).Paid vacation, sick leave, and paid court holidays (15 in 2026).Deferred compensation plan.Opportunities for ongoing professional development. Application InstructionsApplicants must submit:Cover letterCurrent résuméCompleted Ogle County Employment ApplicationApply online at: Friday, November 20, 2026 Interviews will be scheduled beginning the week of November 30, 2026, immediately following the Thanksgiving holiday. For questions or assistance, contact:County Board Chairperson: View email address on us.fitly.work & Risk Management Committee Chairperson: View email address on us.fitly.work Employment Conditions & Equal Opportunity StatementAll employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a job‑related criminal background check and drug test, conducted in accordance with applicable law. Ogle County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodation is available to applicants with disabilities upon request.Ogle County is a drug free workplaceAny offer of employment made by Ogle County is strictly conditional upon the successful completion and satisfactory results of a pre-employment background check and drug screen.