Welcome to Santa Cruz County, where the mountains meet the sea! Joining Central Fire District means becoming part of a special team committed to serving the community with honor and integrity. Our organization values our employees as our greatest asset. The District prioritizes retaining, training, and developing its personnel while focusing on their well-being. We carry out our duties with professionalism, respect, teamwork, and accountability. Take the first step towards a fulfilling and rewarding career with Central Fire District!
Under the general direction of the Human Resources Director, the Human Resources Specialist performs complex and responsible technical human resources functions independently with minimal supervision. This specialist supports the Human Resources division by administering key programs including workers' compensation, recruitment, benefits administration, and labor law compliance. The position functions as an essential staff assistant, providing expertise and coordination for specialized HR activities without direct supervisory or policy formulation authority. The Human Resources Specialist also provides support during labor negotiations, including analyzing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), to assist in negotiation strategies and ensure district compliance. The Human Resources Specialist may represent the Human Resources Director as needed, acting as a proxy or official representative to support district leadership continuity and organizational flexibility.
Possession of an Associate's degree from an accredited college or university with significant coursework in Human Resources, Business Administration, Public Administration, or related fields, and three years of increasingly responsible experience in human resources or a related field; OR Five years of increasingly responsible experience in human resources or related field with emphasis on workers' compensation administration, recruitment, or HR reporting functions. Experience working in a California public agency is preferred. Additional professional certifications such as the Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) or Professional in Human Resources (PHR) are highly desirable.