HR Manager - Compensation & Classification

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Under the general guidance and supervision of the Deputy Chief People Officer and the Assistant Director of Talent Recruitment, the HR Manager for Compensation & Classification will manage various HR projects, with a primary focus on overseeing a comprehensive classification and compensation study. The HR Manager will lead the development, implementation, and administration of fair and equitable classification, compensation, and rewards solutions to ensure that the City remains competitive in the market while achieving its business objectives. This role will be crucial in organizing and collecting job-related data from departments and HR liaisons, working closely with a selected vendor to execute the project successfully. Additionally, the HR Manager will provide departments with support for job analysis and classification requests. This position will also be responsible for monitoring and ensuring compliance with wage and hour laws, equal pay regulations, and other relevant legislation.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various type of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Classification & Compensation Study Project Management:

• Serve as the primary liaison between the City of Cambridge and the selected vendor, with a key focus on overseeing and coordinating the classification and compensation project.
• Organize and collect job descriptions and other relevant information from departments and HR liaisons across the City to provide the vendor with the necessary data for accurate assessments.
• Work closely with the vendor to plan and execute compensation surveys, job evaluations, and classification initiatives.
• Manage timelines, deliverables, and budgets for the project, ensuring alignment with the City’s compensation strategy and compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
• Coordinate the integration of vendor-provided data and recommendations into the City’s compensation and classification systems.
• Regularly review and analyze vendor data and reports, providing insights and recommendations to senior management.
• Conduct audits of vendor processes and address any issues or discrepancies promptly and effectively.
• Prepare and present reports on project outcomes, including vendor performance, compensation analysis, and job classification results.

Management of Job Analysis and Classification Requests:

• Conduct job analysis and respond to classification requests, working closely with departments to ensure accurate and up-to-date job descriptions.
• Collaborate with departmental leaders to review and update job classifications, ensuring they align with organizational needs and industry standards.
• Provide expert guidance on job classification and compensation-related matters to HR Liaisons and departmental staff.

Support for HR Strategic Projects and Ad Hoc Requests:

• Lead and support a variety of HR strategic projects and initiatives across the organization.
• Communicate updates and changes related to HR projects and vendor services to internal stakeholders.
• Provide training and support to HR staff and management on relevant tools, processes, and data.
• Assist in developing and implementing HR policies and practices based on emerging trends and organizational needs.
• Address and manage ad hoc requests and additional projects as they arise.
• Other duties as assigned.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

• A bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, finance, or a related field is preferred. An equivalent combination of education, experience, and skills will be considered.
• Minimum 3 years of progressive experience in compensation and classification management, with a focus on vendor relations, project management, and leading compensation studies.
• At least 5 years of experience in a human resources role.
• Proven experience managing complex HR projects involving cross-functional collaboration and data-driven decision-making.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• In-depth knowledge of compensation principles, job evaluation methods, and relevant laws and regulations.
• Proven experience with vendor management and overseeing service delivery, ensuring high standards and timely project completion.
• Proficiency in data analysis, including the ability to interpret complex data and utilize compensation software/tools effectively.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly to various stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, capable of addressing challenges with creative and effective solutions.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with the utmost discretion and integrity.
• Exceptional organizational skills with a proven track record of managing multiple projects and priorities efficiently.
• Demonstrated expertise in MS Office, particularly advanced functions in Word and Excel.
• Commitment to anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion, with the ability to work effectively with individuals and groups from diverse identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in municipal or public sector environments.
• Proficiency with HR Information Systems (HRIS), particularly PeopleSoft, for data management and reporting.
• SHRM-CP or HRCI-PHR certifications are preferred and will be considered a strong asset.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Ability to access, input, and retrieve information from a computer. Answer telephones and maintain multiple files. Must read and analyze large quantities of information. Work is conducted primarily in a standard office environment which includes fluorescent lighting, air conditioning, computers, and other standard office equipment, but may also involve meetings in other offices or facilities. This position may be eligible for hybrid work under the City’s Telework Policy depending on operational needs.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Ability to operate standard office equipment; pay attention to details and concentrate on tasks despite frequent interruptions and moderate noise levels; communicate effectively and exchange accurate information with coworkers and members of the public; read and organize written material.