Chief Human Resources Officer

Strategic Government Resources; Oregon (WI); On-site; USD 149,835 - 215,217; Full time

Job summary

A government agency in Oregon is seeking a Chief Human Resources Officer to lead HR operations and provide strategic direction. This role requires extensive HR experience, particularly in labor relations and public sector management. The ideal candidate will foster a high-performing workplace culture and advise county leadership. The salary ranges from $149,835 to $215,217 based on experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field.
• At least seven years of progressively responsible HR experience, including five years supervising professional staff.
• Demonstrated labor relations experience in a collective bargaining environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and operational oversight across all HR functions.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to County leadership.
• Lead a team of 11 employees with a biennial budget of $4.8 million.

Skills

Labor relations experience

Public administration

Strategic leadership

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field

Advanced degree in a related field

Job description

Chief Human Resources Officer

About the Position

Are you a strategic, people-centered leader with a passion for building high-performing, inclusive workplaces? Benton County is seeking an innovative Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) to lead its Human Resources Department and serve as a trusted advisor to County leadership. The CHRO provides strategic direction and operational oversight across all HR functions—labor relations, employee engagement, organizational development, workforce planning, and compliance. The ideal candidate will be a relationship builder, and collaborative strategist committed to advancing Benton County’s mission.

Perfectly placed in the Willamette Valley—90 miles south of Portland and 40 miles north of Eugene—Benton County, Oregon offers the perfect balance of small-town warmth and world-class amenities. Home to Oregon State University, Corvallis serves as the county seat and anchors a thriving economy rooted in higher education, health care, agriculture, and technology. The community enjoys a reputation for sustainability, outdoor recreation, and civic engagement. Residents hike the Cascade and Coastal ranges, bike along scenic trails, and attend local favorites like the Corvallis Fall Festival and Benton County Fair. Benton County is consistently ranked among Oregon’s healthiest counties and boasts the state’s longest life expectancy.

Benton County operates under a home-rule form of government with a three-member Board of Commissioners. The Board appoints a County Administrator, who oversees County operations. The CHRO reports directly to the County Administrator and is a key member of the County’s Senior Leadership Team. The CHRO leads a team of 11 employees with a biennial budget of $4.8 million. The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of experience in public sector human resources, with a deep understanding of Oregon employment law and labor relations.

Required qualifications for this position include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field
• At least seven (7) years of progressively responsible HR experience, including five (5) years supervising professional staff
• Demonstrated labor relations experience in a collective bargaining environment

Preferred qualifications include:

• Public-sector HR experience or comparable jurisdiction
• Advanced degree in a related field
• Professional certification such as SPHR, SHRM-SCP, or CLRP

An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities will be considered.

The salary range for this position is $149,835–$215,217, depending on experience and qualifications.