Sr. Classification & Compensation Analyst (Senior Administrative Analyst) –Office of Human Resources

Howard County Government; Ellicott City (MD); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Howard County Government is seeking a Senior Classification and Compensation Analyst to join their Human Resources team. This strategic role involves conducting job analyses, developing classification structures, and providing salary recommendations. Ideal candidates will have a strong understanding of compensation practices and thrive in collaborative environments.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Excellent benefits

Wellness programs

Qualifications

• 4 years of related experience or equivalent education.
• Senior-level expertise in technical analysis and policy drafting.

Responsibilities

• Lead comprehensive job analysis and develop job descriptions.
• Conduct market and internal salary reviews.
• Advise departments on classification and pay decisions.

Skills

Analytical

Presentation

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Microsoft Excel

HRIS

PowerPoint

Job description

Howard County:

Conveniently located in the heart of central Maryland between Baltimore and Washington, Howard County offers the charm of a historic past mixed with the excitement of a cosmopolitan community.

Howard County Government:

Howard County Government is a leader in innovation, best practices, and sustainability. It is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live and work in the country. In 2024, Howard County Government received a record-breaking 63 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo)—the most awards in Maryland and fifth in the nation, among over 3,000 counties. NACo Achievement Awards recognize innovative programs that improve services, enhance citizen participation, and support public policy.

What are we looking for?

We seek outstanding individuals to join our team and contribute to excellence in Howard County operations.

What you'll like most about working at Howard County Government:

• Commitment to workplace excellence across all areas of County government.
• A highly talented, diverse, and inclusive workplace where your input is valued and encouraged.
• Competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including medical, retirement, and wellness programs.
• Opportunity to help shape our culture and impact what makes us an exceptional place to work.

Position Summary:

Are you a strategic thinker with expertise in job classification and compensation analysis? We are seeking a Senior Classification and Compensation Analyst to join our innovative Human Resources team.

This senior role involves leading complex projects that influence countywide human capital strategies. Responsibilities include conducting job analyses, developing classification structures, writing descriptions, performing market and internal studies, and providing salary recommendations aligned with policies, laws, and budgets.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of equal pay mandates, pay scale development, and FLSA compliance. You will advise leadership on job design, salary placement, reclassifications, and pay equity, acting as a subject matter expert.

We seek proactive, detail-oriented, solutions-driven candidates who thrive in collaborative, fast-paced environments and possess technical proficiency in classification and compensation practices.

Class Description:

Performs advanced professional administrative work, possibly supervisory, under general supervision. Tasks include analyzing complex administrative matters, legislative, budget, personnel, purchasing, and policy issues, and supervising major programs or activities.

Key duties include:

1. Conduct Comprehensive Job Analysis: Lead studies to evaluate duties and qualifications, developing accurate job descriptions.
2. Develop and Maintain Classification Structures: Design and update county-wide structures for consistency and compliance.
3. Lead Compensation Studies: Conduct market and internal salary reviews and support policy adjustments.
4. Advise Departments: Provide guidance on classification and pay decisions.
5. Interpret Policies and Agreements: Ensure compliance with policies and collective bargaining agreements.
6. Design and Administer Pay Plans: Develop pay scales and plans, including COLAs and premium pays.
7. Manage Complex Projects: Lead reorganizations, system implementations, and equity adjustments.
8. Conduct Job and Desk Audits: Perform audits and present findings.
9. Create Reports and Presentations: Develop analytical reports and presentations using PowerPoint, Excel, etc.
10. Provide Technical Advice: Offer guidance and training to HR staff.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree and four (4) years of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Senior-level expertise in technical analysis, presentation skills, and policy drafting. Bachelor's in business management, psychology, HR, finance, or related field. At least five (5) years leading compensation analysis, pay scale development, and job analysis. Experience with public sector classification systems and merit pay is preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, HRIS, PowerPoint, and related applications is required.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Regular talking and hearing; sitting and using hands; occasional standing, walking, reaching.
• Specific vision abilities required; ability to travel independently.
• Work environment is usually quiet to moderate noise.

Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of compensation planning, survey methodology, and job evaluation.
• Strong analytical, presentation, and writing skills.
• Ability to conduct research, analyze data, and prepare reports.
• Proficiency in office software and enterprise systems.
• Leadership in compensation design and organizational initiatives.
• Thorough knowledge of labor laws and HR practices.
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills.
• Problem-solving and initiative-taking abilities.
• Ability to travel and attend meetings independently.