Deputy Director of Human Resources, Washington State Ferries

State of Washington; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The State of Washington is seeking a Deputy Director of Human Resources for Washington State Ferries. This leadership role involves overseeing HR strategy, labor relations, and compliance for a team of over 2,100 employees. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in HR leadership, collective bargaining, and a strong understanding of employment laws. This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options and a competitive salary package.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership in complex HR and labor programs.
• Expertise in collective bargaining and contract management.
• Strong knowledge of employment laws and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee HR strategy and labor negotiations for WSF.
• Manage and mentor HR professionals.
• Lead change initiatives and ensure compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Collective Bargaining

Compliance

Risk Management

Data-informed Decision Making

Education

Degree in HR, Business, or Public Administration

Certifications like SPHR, SHRM-SCP, or HRCP

Job description

Deputy Director of Human Resources, Washington State Ferries

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About WSDOT
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) manages an integrated, multimodal transportation system to ensure safe and efficient movement of people and goods across the state. It oversees the world's longest floating bridge, the widest tunneling project, and the largest ferry system in the nation.

Description
Washington State Ferries (WSF) is a vital part of Washington's transportation network, carrying nearly 20 million passengers annually on over 400 sailings daily across Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. Our team of over 2,100 dedicated employees works to serve communities and shape ferry travel's future.

The Opportunity
We seek a dynamic and experienced professional to serve as Deputy Director of Human Resources for WSF. Reporting to the Director of HR and Safety, this leadership role oversees all HR and labor relations aspects for WSF. Responsibilities include HR strategy, workforce planning, labor negotiations, organizational development, administration of collective bargaining agreements, labor and employee relations, ADA and return-to-work programs, and policy development affecting over 2,100 maritime employees. The role demands sound judgment in high-stakes environments, including negotiations and compliance.

What To Expect
The Deputy HR Director will:

• Partner with WSF Directors and the HR & Safety Director to develop and implement long-term HR strategies aligned with agency goals.
• Serve as the primary HR advisor to WSF leadership, supporting labor relations, organizational strategy, performance management, and training.
• Lead strategic HR planning, act as the main contact for union negotiations, and resolve concerns through grievance and mediation processes.
• Guide management and HR staff on collective bargaining, WAC, agency policies, and employment laws.
• Manage and mentor HR professionals in coaching, investigations, labor relations, and disciplinary actions.
• Coordinate with central HR programs such as ADA/FMLA, classification, benefits, recruiting, and investigations, providing coaching and training.
• Lead change initiatives, workforce planning, and organizational design efforts, ensuring legal and policy compliance.
• Oversee investigations and resolutions of sensitive employee concerns, including discrimination and harassment claims.

Required Qualifications
Candidates must possess:

• Proven leadership in complex HR and labor programs, with strategic oversight experience.
• Expertise in collective bargaining, contract management, grievance resolution, and arbitration in union environments.
• Ability to align HR initiatives with agency priorities and lead workforce planning.
• Strong knowledge of employment laws, compliance, and risk management.
• Experience in building and mentoring high-performing HR teams.
• Skilled in resolving personnel issues, investigations, and delivering compliant solutions.
• Ability to navigate political environments and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated integrity, confidentiality, and sound judgment.
• Data-informed decision-making skills and experience leading HR modernization and change management initiatives.

Preferred Qualifications
Additional desirable qualifications include:

• Experience in maritime, transportation, or safety-sensitive environments; familiarity with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
• Degree in HR, Business, or Public Administration; certifications like SPHR, SHRM-SCP, or HRCP.
• Experience supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) programs.
• Experience engaging with government agencies, legislative bodies, and regulatory entities.

Important Notes
This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options. Salary includes a 3% increase effective July 1, 2025, pending legislation. Application review begins June 2, 2025; early applications are encouraged. WSDOT does not use E-Verify and cannot extend STEM OPT.