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Bellingham, Washington (pop. 97,270) is among the most beautiful and vibrant communities in the country. We have a small city vibe combined with big city events and activities, natural beauty, and recreation galore, all nestled between the Cascade Mountains and the San Juan Islands. A short distance to both Seattle and Vancouver, BC, Bellingham is the recipient of an extensive list of awards, including many designations as a “best place” for livability, outdoor adventures, and leadership in sustainability. 

Known as a recreation destination, Bellingham has invested for decades in a top-notch system of parks and trails. Within easy reach are world-class skiing, sailing, kayaking, mountain biking, climbing, and hiking. It’s truly an outdoor lover’s paradise. With a thriving arts scene, unique shopping districts, and a plethora of local eateries, breweries and more, there’s something for everyone in the urban center. 

Bellingham is among the fastest growing cities in the Pacific Northwest. With an eye toward sustainable growth, the city has preserved its historic roots and has connections to the Indigenous nations who have called this land home since time immemorial. While looking to the future, walkable, bikeable neighborhoods and urban villages are spread throughout the city.

Education stands tall in Bellingham, with a well-supported, well-funded, acclaimed K-12 public education system in our Bellingham Public Schools. Public higher education institutions including Western Washington University, Northwest Indian College and two community colleges also call our area home. 

The City Charter establishes a Mayor-Council form of government, with administration led by an elected Mayor in a strong-Mayor system. The seven-member City Council serves as their legislative, policy-making branch of government. An elected judge presides over Bellingham Municipal Court as its judicial branch. Most administrative department heads – including the HR Director – are appointed by and serve at the Mayor’s discretion.

The City ensures the effective delivery of essential municipal services through an overall budget in 2025 of $548.9 million, which includes $122.2 million for general funding operations. The 2025 Human Resources general fund budget is $3.0 million. There are 1035 full-time employees with an additional 50 seasonal employees.  There are also nine collective bargaining units.

The Human Resources Director is responsible for the City's workforce strategy, including developing policies to attract, retain, and nurture talent, reinforcing a City staff capable of serving the community with distinction, and fostering an inclusive workforce that mirrors the City's values and demographics.

The Human Resources Director leads and coordinates a comprehensive Human Resources program with a team of 25 staff to support all employees and collective bargaining units.

  • Bachelor's degree in human resources, public administration, business administration or related field from an accredited university. Master's degree preferred. 
  • Five years of progressively responsible experience with at least three years senior management experience in a comprehensive human resources program including supervision. 
  • Extensive experience managing collective bargaining and labor relations is required.
  • CLRP, SPHR/SHRM-SCP and/or PHR/SHRM-CP Certification preferred.
The current hiring range for the position is $169,164 – $204,696 DOQ. The City’s excellent and comprehensive benefit program includes medical, dental and vision coverage for employees and their dependents, plus life insurance and long-term disability for employees. The package also includes generous paid leave days. City participates in the Washington State Retirement System with joint contributions from the City and the employee. Residency is not required, but highly preferred.

Interested candidates should apply online with a cover letter, resume, and contact information for at least five professional references, by February 21, 2025. For further information, contact MGT Senior Consultant Sarah McKee at 847-380-3240 ext. 120.


The City of Bellingham is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Diversity and inclusion are critical to their success. They seek to recruit the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool and strongly encourage all qualified candidates to apply. 

Application Deadline: February 21, 2025

Posted: 2025-01-24

To apply for this job please visit www.govhrusa.com.


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