North Whidbey Fire and Rescue (NWFR) is seeking qualified candidates to perform the duties of a Human Resources Specialist.

Compensation: $57,081.00 – $63,960.00 DOE

Employee Benefits:

• Medical Benefits - up to $925.00 per month paid by employer.
• Paid Sick Leave - 8 hours per month.
• Paid Holidays - 11 per year.
• Paid Vacation - 2 weeks per year.
• FMLA
• Washington PERS Retirement Benefits.
• EAP - Employee Assistance Program
• Aflac (optional)

How to Apply: Application packets can be submitted through the district website: www.nwfr.org under the “Employment” tab, or you can pick up an application packet at our district office located at 770 NE Midway BLVD, Oak Harbor, WA 98277. Application packets must have an attached resume and cover letter to be considered complete for the application review process. Applications accepted through May 31st, 2026.

Job Duties & Description

Under general direction, the Human Resources Specialist (HRS) carries out their responsibilities in accordance with North Whidbey Fire and Rescue's (NWFR) mission, values, policies, procedures, and all local, state, and federal regulations.

The HRS responsibilities include but are not limited to developing and implementing systems for managing worker benefits, facilitating and managing the hiring and onboarding process for new hires; facilitating and ensuring the provision of quality onboarding and ongoing training; managing personnel documentation and files; developing and implementing policies and procedures. The HRS will support and respond to and resolve problematic work behaviors/concerns and conflicts, assisting the fire chief and accounting/office manager in their duties.

This position is typically 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. Hours of work during the week may be flexed for weekend and evening work hours at training, community events and other functions as necessary to obtain the needs of the district.

Travel is primarily local or regional during the business day, although some out-of-area overnight travel may be expected.

Required Qualifications

· An associate's degree in human resources or closely related field.

· Current WA State driver's license (or acceptable state driver’s license, if military).

· Outstanding communication skills.

· Proficient computer skills including the use of Microsoft Office.

· The ability to express ideas clearly and concisely in English both orally and in writing to groups and individuals.

Preferred qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in human resources.
• Experience working for a local government.
• Bachelor's degree in human resources or closely related field.

Necessary Special Qualifications

Employees of this classification must, by virtue of their professional background, experiences, accomplishments, and perspectives, be compatible with the organizational culture and climate of North Whidbey Fire and Rescue.

Examples of Work Performed

· Maintain employee files and human resource records.

· Maintain policies and procedures for hiring, training, compensation, employee benefits, and employee personnel information.

· Oversee timely distribution of employee manual and paperwork.

· Work collaboratively to post new job opportunities as needed.

· Conduct new hire onboarding, orientation, testing, and enrollment into district benefit plans.

· Arrange and manage employee benefits eligibility, enrollment, and answer questions as needed.

· Screen candidates.

· Point of contact for employees and retiree inquiries pertaining to HR and benefit related matters.

· Process Board of Volunteer Firefighters (BVFF) claims.

· Responsible for management and monitoring of Workman’s Compensation claims, Disability claims, Federal FMLA and Washington State Paid and Medical Leave programs.

· Work with benefit brokers and third-party administrators to troubleshoot employee benefit related issues.

· Compile personnel census data required for various HR reporting and benefit surveys.

· Provide assistance for union labor negotiations, disciplinary matters and investigations.

· Plan/lead projects and assignments in collaboration with other staff in the district.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge skills and abilities

• Knowledge of fire district policies, rules and regulations and the ability to apply them to the job setting.
• Knowledge of state and federal laws that govern employee and employer rights, responsibilities, and compensation/benefits.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with both career and volunteer personnel within the district.
• Ability to project a positive image for the fire district. Ability to work cooperatively and effectively with fellow employees and the public.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office software.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, talk, see, hear, feel, operate objects and travel by automobile or truck.

Work Location

In person

Supervision Received

The human resources specialist is expected to succeed with minimal supervision under the general guidance and direction of the office manager.

North Whidbey Fire and Rescue Employment Policy

North Whidbey Fire and Rescue provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or disability. In addition to federal law requirements, the North Whidbey Fire and Rescue complies with all state laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

The description of job duties, responsibilities, and requirements listed above is intended to be illustrative and is not intended to list all duties, responsibilities, and requirements that may be required for the performance of the job classification. Employees may be required to do all or some of the listed duties, or other related duties as needed by the district. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. It is also intended to be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.