Director of Human Resources

Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA) 

Director of Human Resources

OWASA is searching for an experienced, collaborative, strategic, people-centered Director of Human Resources. This role champions our organization’s culture and is key to the success of our people strategy, safety, equity and development.   

We are grateful to be our community’s trusted partner for clean water and environmental protection. Through teamwork and partnership, we work together to deliver valuable water and sewer services essential for our community. 

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and maintain the strategic vision for all HR programs including Employee Development and Safety, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging.
• Lead a team of professionals in the following positions: Safety Manager, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Specialist, HR Generalist and HR Coordinator.
• Oversee talent acquisition, employment offers, onboarding, training and performance management.
• Maintain competitive compensation by facilitating regular Classification and Compensation studies and administering the pay for performance system through guidelines and principles.  
• Direct and maintain competitive benefit programs.
• Facilitate employee engagement initiatives and monitor retention strategies.
• Facilitate performance review appeals, staff grievances, discipline, investigations and serve as the Non-Discrimination Coordinator for customers and public. 
• Oversee employee relations activities, including counseling staff, responding to concerns and facilitating problem resolution.
• Direct the management of safety programs, worker’s compensation, occupational and fit for duty physicals, background and drug testing.
• Oversee programs on emergency and crisis response, disaster recovery, drills and exercises.
• Direct work on the organization's workforce and professional development strategies and cultivate internal and external relationships with diversity as a key driver.
• Member of the leadership team; works closely with directors to support the organization’s initiatives.
• Ensure all HR operations comply with local, state, and federal laws and regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field and eight years of progressive HR experience with at least three years in senior leadership or director capacity.
• Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification is preferred.
• Strong understanding of HR best practices, employment laws, and public sector.
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion and integrity.
• Ability to foster growth of HR direct reports and coach staff on best leadership practices.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Service-oriented attitude, professionalism, and a passion to foster a diverse and inclusive work environment are necessary. 

Pay and Benefits 

• Salary Range is $131,913 - $197,871
• Membership in the NC Local Government Employee Retirement System
• 5% Employer 457 Deferred Compensation contribution
• Retirement Health Savings account 
• Employer paid Health, Dental, Vision, Life insurance, Dependent Life, Long-term Disability  
• Vacation, Sick, Personal, Bereavement and Parental Leave
• Twelve Paid Holidays  
• Educational Reimbursement: Bonus Pay for Additional Certifications and/or Education   
• Cell Phone Stipend 
• Ability to transfer unused sick leave from preceding NC Local Government or state agency employer
• Much, much more!

Team members are our most important resource. OWASA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we value diverse experiences. We provide competitive pay and benefits in a safe, rewarding work environment. Visit www.owasa.org to apply for this excellent opportunity. This recruitment will close June 18, 2026.

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