Grand Forks County is seeking an experienced Human Resources Director / Risk Manager to join our leadership team.
In this role, you will provide practical, responsive support to county departments and employees—helping our teams do their best work while serving the residents of Grand Forks County.
- Build a Strong Workplace Culture: Champion an employee-focused, high-performance culture built on collaboration, empowerment, accountability, quality, and service to our community.
- Support and Protect Our Workforce: Lead the County’s Risk Management, Workers’ Compensation, and workplace safety programs, helping create an environment where employees can perform their work safely and effectively.
- Lead with Innovation: Bring fresh ideas, modern HR practices, and practical solutions that strengthen our workforce and improve the effectiveness of county government.
- Be a Trusted Partner: Serve as a resource and advisor to department leaders and employees, helping navigate workforce challenges, develop talent, and support the people who deliver essential public services.
To learn more about this position, please review the Human Resources Director/Risk Manager Position Description
This is an exempt, full-time leadership position reporting directly to the County Administrator.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Department Leadership: Oversee the development and administration of county-wide human resources policies and supervise HR department staff.
Workforce Development: Plan, organize, and administer programs for county-wide recruiting, compensation, and ongoing professional development.
Collaborative Advisor: Act as a strategic business partner to Department Heads, Elected Officials, and the Board of Commissioners to address personnel and long-term division needs.
Risk Management & Compliance: Act as the County Risk Manager, ADA Coordinator, and EEOC compliance officer. Managing incidents, investigations, and safety training working closely with the Human Resources Manager and Department Heads.
Budgetary Oversight: Prepare and administer the annual Human Resources Department budget, benefit, and system administration functions.
Education & Experience Requirements
Education: Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Public Administration, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a closely related field.
Experience: Minimum of eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in public or private personnel management or a directly related field. Minimum of five (5) years of experience directly supervising professional-level staff.
Certifications: Current Professional HR Certification preferred. Must possess or have the ability to obtain a valid SHRM, HRCI, or IMPA Public Human Resource Certification within two (2) years of hire.
Key Knowledge & Abilities
- Thorough understanding of federal and state laws pertaining to human resources management. Preference to candidates with public sector experience.
- Proficiency in handling conflict resolution, mediation, and complex workplace relations.
- Ability to handle sensitive, confidential data and incorporate metrics into strategic decision-making.
- High standard of personal ethics, professional integrity, and fiscal responsibility.
Status and Hours
Full-time (based on 40 hours per week), Monday through Friday, benefit eligible. There might be a variation in work hours and days to support the department and County needs. This position is not eligible for teleworking.
How to Apply
A completed Grand Forks County application must be submitted with a resume and cover letter to receive full consideration. Applications should be submitted to:
Grand Forks County
Attn: Thomas Ford
151 South 4th Street, 6th Floor
PO BOX 5726
Grand Forks, ND 58201
Email: thomas.ford@gfcounty.org
Applications may be obtained from the Grand Forks County Human Resources Department at 151 South 4th Street, 5th Floor (northside), Grand Forks, ND 58201, or by contacting Human Resources at human.resources@gfcounty.org.
The interview process will begin following the application deadline.
VETERAN'S PREFERENCE DISCLAIMER
In accordance with North Dakota Century Code § 37-19.1-02(4), this position is classified as an administrative head of a department. Consequently, veterans' preference does not apply to this recruitment or selection process
Selection Process
Prospective employees may undergo a thorough background investigation including a medical and drug/ alcohol screening. Each applicant’s education, training, and experience will be rated based on required application materials submitted and the top-scoring candidates will be forwarded for further consideration.
County Employment Benefits and Perks
While employed at Grand Forks County you will receive a generous number of paid holidays, paid time off, benefits, and retirement. Did you know that Grand Forks County participates in NDPERS Retirement - 16.26% and employees only contribute 2% and the County contributes the rest. For employees hired on or after January 1,2025, you will be enrolled in the Defined Compensation 2025 plan (DC25) at the rate of 9.26% of your gross salary paid by the County with an option for an additional 3% employee contribution and County match. To learn about the benefits offered, please review the 2026 Benefits Summary.
Grand Forks County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with the provisions of the North Dakota Human Rights Act (NDCC 14-02.4). We value diverse perspectives and are dedicated to building a welcoming workforce centered around helping others through public service.
