City of Santa Barbara, CA
Salary :
$158,654.08 - $192,845.64 Annually Location :
Santa Barbara, CA Job Type:
Full-time Unclassified Job Number:
2025-150-0223-HR-MA Department:
Human Resources Opening Date:
10/14/2025 Closing Date:
11/4/2025 5:30 PM Pacific
DESCRIPTION ABOUT US At the City of Santa Barbara, the best part of our organization is our people. As a City employee, you'll work alongside others who are passionate, motivated, and committed to public service. We strive to provide employees with the support and resources they need to thrive, both professionally and personally. The Human Resources Department plays a critical role in supporting the City's mission by partnering with departments to attract, retain, and develop a talented and diverse workforce. Our team provides citywide leadership in areas such as recruitment, benefits, classification and compensation, training, employee engagement, and labor relations. Our Mission: Through strategic partnerships and collaboration with departments and the public, Human Resources develops and delivers programs and services to support and strengthen the City's workforce to deliver the highest standard of service to the public. Learn more about the Human Resources Department here. THE POSITION The City of Santa Barbara Human Resources Department is seeking a knowledgeable and strategic Human Resources Manager to manage and coordinate the work of assigned Human Resources Divisions. Depending on organizational needs, this position will manage a combination of HR functions, including any of the following: Recruitment and Selection Classification and Compensation Benefits Administration Employee and Labor Relations Training and Development Records Management
This leadership role is responsible for supervising professional and technical staff, administering divisional budgets, and driving initiatives that enhance workforce engagement and organizational effectiveness. REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES Develops and implements goals and objectives for a division of Human Resources; administers associated programs across all City departments, consistent with State and federal requirements and sound professional principles and practices. Leads and participates in strategic planning for human resources activities, including development and implementation of short- and long-range goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for each functional area. Establishes appropriate service and staffing levels and allocates resources according to priorities Monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures. Assesses and monitors workload, procedures, and administrative and support systems, identifying opportunities for improvement and directing the implementation of changes. Represents the City with citizen groups, outside agencies and the general public. Attends and participates in City Council, Commission, committees, staff, and public and private agency meetings as required per assigned area of responsibility. Explains and presents Human Resources programs, policies and activities. Negotiates and resolves sensitive, significant and controversial issues as needed. Ensures City compliance with a wide range of employment laws and regulations affecting City operations. Directs staff in the interpretation and application of these laws and regulations, and advises City staff in the interpretation of contracts, rules, and policies governing Human Resources programs. Obtains, monitors, and supervises professional services and consultant work to ensure that project objectives, budgets and schedules are consistent and conform to City plans and policies. Gathers a variety of statistical data and performs research and analysis of complex administrative, technical, or operational issues. Prepares feasibility studies and makes recommendations on the impact to the Department's operation. Prepares and administers an HR division budget; monitors and approves expenditures. Performs other related duties as assigned.
The ideal candidate will possess a strong professional background and highly developed expertise in all areas of human resources management. In addition, he or she will be able to demonstrate:
A broad understanding of labor and employment laws and regulations. A commitment to professional development, innovation, and alignment with modern public sector human resources practices and technologies. Strong communication and presentation skills needed to interpret law and policy through a broad array of communication and training tools, and to facilitate employee morale and engagement. A customer-focused, solutions-oriented approach to meeting City and community needs within ethical and legal frameworks. Proven ability to manage multiple high-priority projects and meet deadlines while maintaining service quality. BENEFITS: To view our benefits page click here. EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS Knowledge of:
Principles, practices, trends, and methods of human resources administration, including those related to personnel selection, labor and employee relations, benefits administration, classification, compensation, HRIS administration, and staff development. Principles and practices of supervision, training, and performance evaluation. Laws, rules, regulations, court decisions, and legal interpretations concerning human resources and personnel administration. Principles of report writing. Principles of effective customer service. Principles and techniques of collective bargaining. Investigative techniques and report writing. Principles of financial management, including budget administration and preparation. Office productivity software such as word processing, spreadsheet, and database programs. Principles and methods for conducting research, quantitative analysis, and qualitative analysis. Skill in:
Investigative techniques and report writing Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems Problem solving and conflict resolution Ability to:
Analyze and interpret laws, regulations, ordinances, labor contracts, and proposals. Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing Provide guidance and support for sensitive employee personnel issues Plan, organize and implement division goals, budgets, staffing, policies, and operating practices. Prepare, analyze and present a variety of different programs, plans and agreements. Analyze and solve problems; interpret contracts and requirements. Write and apply administrative guidelines related to division and departmental services; prepare clear, concise and complete reports and correspondence. Plan, organize and complete projects and lead and motivate employees to meet established deadlines. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with City applicants, employees, staff, supervisors, management, governmental officials, consultants, and others. Exercise independent judgment and initiative within established guidelines. Manage the selection, training, evaluation, and disciplining of City staff and resolution of interpersonal conflicts. Maintain confidentiality of sensitive personnel information. Work independently. EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Option A:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in human resources management, public or business administration, organizational development, industrial and organizational psychology, or a closely related field. Five years of recent, paid progressively responsible and professional-level public sector human resources experience in any of the following areas: employee relations, personnel administration, labor relations, recruitment and selection, classification and compensation, benefits administration, or training and development. Experience leading or directing the work of others is desirable. Option B:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree.
Seven years of recent, paid progressively responsible and professional-level public sector human resources experience in any of the following areas: employee relations, labor relations, personnel administration, recruitment and selection, classification and compensation, benefits administration, or training and development. Experience leading or directing the work of others is desirable.
Licenses, Certificates and/or Other Requirements: Possession of a valid Class C driver license or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions. Ability to work extended hours. Certification or specialized training in human resources management, contract negotiations, budgeting, project administration, and related areas is desirable. SELECTION PROCESS It is important that your application and supplemental questionnaire show all the relevant education, training, and experience you possess which qualifies you for this position. All applications and supplemental questionnaires will be reviewed and the most qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process. Be sure to be thorough in your responses. Statements such as "See application", "Extensive Experience", or "See Resume" are not an acceptable substitute for a completed application and supplemental questionnaire. The selection process may consist of an application screening, written exam, computer skills exam and/or an oral interview. The successful candidate's employment history will be thoroughly evaluated prior to appointment. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION There is currently one (1) vacancy within the Human Resources Department. Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email and spam regularly throughout the recruitment process. You may also log into your governmentjobs.com account to view these emails. CITY APPLICATION AND RESPONSES TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE MUST BE RECEIVED BY 5:30 PM ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2025. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
The City of Santa Barbara is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an EEO employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, or other factors. We believe in fostering an inclusive work environment where employees feel valued, respected and empowered.
Disaster Services Assignments
As public employees, we play an enhanced role in the event of a disaster or other emergency in our community. You will be registered as a disaster services worker, and you will be issued a disaster services identification card. In the event of a disaster or other emergency, make sure that your family is safe and secure first, then report to your assigned emergency location. Hourly employees generally do not receive disaster services assignments. STEP INCREASES , through the top salary step, are tied to job performance with annual performance reviews.
THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS
may vary and are subject to change: Note: Part-time employees receive pro-rated benefits, e.g., 50%, 60%, etc.
Cell Phone Allowance
of $50 per month will be provided to those applicable employees who do not have a City issued cell phone. Deferred
Compensation
(457) Savings Plan is available. Employee Assistance Program
(EAP): A City-paid Employee Assistance Program is available for employees and family members. Flexwork / Telecommuting
is available. Health
Insurance
including medical, dental, and vision benefits is available. Click here for the benefits rate sheet:
Management Unit 2, 22, 32 Rate Sheet . Life
and
AD&D Insurance : City-paid term life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance (2x annual salary) is provided. Employee-paid supplemental life insurance is available subject to a health application if coverage is not elected during the new hire guarantee issue period. Holidays : 12 holidays are observed / year. Management
Leave : 64 hours are provided each July 1st (pro-rated the first year). Personal
Leave : 32 hours are provided each July 1st (pro-rated the first year). Medicare : Employee pays 1.45% of salary towards future Medicare benefits. Retirement : The City does not participate in Social Security. PERS Miscellaneous Formula: " Classic " members: 2.7% @ 55; City contributes 12.03% and employee contributes 8% of salary. " New " members: 2% @ 62; City contributes 12.03% and employee contributes 7.75% of salary. PERS Police Safety Formula: " Classic " members: 3% @ 50; City contributes 23.38% and employee contributes 9% of salary. " New " members: 2.7% @ 57; City contributes 23.38% and employee contributes 14% of salary. PERS Fire Safety Formula: " Classic " members: 3% @ 50; City contributes 27.8% and employee contributes 10.5% of salary. " New " members: 2.7% @ 57; City contributes 14.72% and employee contributes 14.5% of salary.
Short
Term
Disability
Insurance : Optional employee-paid coverage is available. L
ong-term Disability Insurance : City-paid coverage is provided. Sick Leave
is accrued at the rate of 96 hours / year. The City is an employer-member of the
Coastal Housing Partnership
which offers regular employees with home loan assistance and rental reductions. Uniforms
will be provided by the City to those employees required to wear a uniform. Vacation
is accrued at 120 hours / year, increasing with City service.
Revised 5/27/2025 01
Describe your professional human resources experience in administering staff development and organizational development programs and initiatives, including developing and delivering in person and web-based training content. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. 02
Describe your professional human resources experience in administering employee leaves of absence. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. If you have no experience, please enter N/A. 03
Describe your professional human resources experience in administering employee benefits programs. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. If you have no experience, please enter N/A. 04
Describe your professional human resources experience in administering employment-related selection processes, including recruitments and examinations. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. If you have no experience, please enter N/A. 05
Describe your professional human resources experience in administering classification and compensation studies, including developing classification specifications. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. If you have no experience, please enter N/A. 06
Describe your experience supervising or leading the work of others. For each employer where this experience was gained, include the agency name, job title, duration (years/months) duties performed, number of staff you led or supervised, and a description of such responsibilities. 07
Describe your professional human resources experience advising supervisors and managers on matters related to employee performance management, investigations, and discipline. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. If you have no experience, please enter N/A. 08
Describe a significant HR program, process improvement, or technology you implemented that improved efficiency, compliance, or employee engagement. In your response, please address the following:A. What was the need?B. What were your responsibilities?B. How did you measure its effectiveness and what would you do differently, if anything? If you have no experience, please enter N/A. Required Question
$158,654.08 - $192,845.64 Annually Location :
Santa Barbara, CA Job Type:
Full-time Unclassified Job Number:
2025-150-0223-HR-MA Department:
Human Resources Opening Date:
10/14/2025 Closing Date:
11/4/2025 5:30 PM Pacific
DESCRIPTION ABOUT US At the City of Santa Barbara, the best part of our organization is our people. As a City employee, you'll work alongside others who are passionate, motivated, and committed to public service. We strive to provide employees with the support and resources they need to thrive, both professionally and personally. The Human Resources Department plays a critical role in supporting the City's mission by partnering with departments to attract, retain, and develop a talented and diverse workforce. Our team provides citywide leadership in areas such as recruitment, benefits, classification and compensation, training, employee engagement, and labor relations. Our Mission: Through strategic partnerships and collaboration with departments and the public, Human Resources develops and delivers programs and services to support and strengthen the City's workforce to deliver the highest standard of service to the public. Learn more about the Human Resources Department here. THE POSITION The City of Santa Barbara Human Resources Department is seeking a knowledgeable and strategic Human Resources Manager to manage and coordinate the work of assigned Human Resources Divisions. Depending on organizational needs, this position will manage a combination of HR functions, including any of the following: Recruitment and Selection Classification and Compensation Benefits Administration Employee and Labor Relations Training and Development Records Management
This leadership role is responsible for supervising professional and technical staff, administering divisional budgets, and driving initiatives that enhance workforce engagement and organizational effectiveness. REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES Develops and implements goals and objectives for a division of Human Resources; administers associated programs across all City departments, consistent with State and federal requirements and sound professional principles and practices. Leads and participates in strategic planning for human resources activities, including development and implementation of short- and long-range goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for each functional area. Establishes appropriate service and staffing levels and allocates resources according to priorities Monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures. Assesses and monitors workload, procedures, and administrative and support systems, identifying opportunities for improvement and directing the implementation of changes. Represents the City with citizen groups, outside agencies and the general public. Attends and participates in City Council, Commission, committees, staff, and public and private agency meetings as required per assigned area of responsibility. Explains and presents Human Resources programs, policies and activities. Negotiates and resolves sensitive, significant and controversial issues as needed. Ensures City compliance with a wide range of employment laws and regulations affecting City operations. Directs staff in the interpretation and application of these laws and regulations, and advises City staff in the interpretation of contracts, rules, and policies governing Human Resources programs. Obtains, monitors, and supervises professional services and consultant work to ensure that project objectives, budgets and schedules are consistent and conform to City plans and policies. Gathers a variety of statistical data and performs research and analysis of complex administrative, technical, or operational issues. Prepares feasibility studies and makes recommendations on the impact to the Department's operation. Prepares and administers an HR division budget; monitors and approves expenditures. Performs other related duties as assigned.
The ideal candidate will possess a strong professional background and highly developed expertise in all areas of human resources management. In addition, he or she will be able to demonstrate:
A broad understanding of labor and employment laws and regulations. A commitment to professional development, innovation, and alignment with modern public sector human resources practices and technologies. Strong communication and presentation skills needed to interpret law and policy through a broad array of communication and training tools, and to facilitate employee morale and engagement. A customer-focused, solutions-oriented approach to meeting City and community needs within ethical and legal frameworks. Proven ability to manage multiple high-priority projects and meet deadlines while maintaining service quality. BENEFITS: To view our benefits page click here. EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS Knowledge of:
Principles, practices, trends, and methods of human resources administration, including those related to personnel selection, labor and employee relations, benefits administration, classification, compensation, HRIS administration, and staff development. Principles and practices of supervision, training, and performance evaluation. Laws, rules, regulations, court decisions, and legal interpretations concerning human resources and personnel administration. Principles of report writing. Principles of effective customer service. Principles and techniques of collective bargaining. Investigative techniques and report writing. Principles of financial management, including budget administration and preparation. Office productivity software such as word processing, spreadsheet, and database programs. Principles and methods for conducting research, quantitative analysis, and qualitative analysis. Skill in:
Investigative techniques and report writing Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems Problem solving and conflict resolution Ability to:
Analyze and interpret laws, regulations, ordinances, labor contracts, and proposals. Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing Provide guidance and support for sensitive employee personnel issues Plan, organize and implement division goals, budgets, staffing, policies, and operating practices. Prepare, analyze and present a variety of different programs, plans and agreements. Analyze and solve problems; interpret contracts and requirements. Write and apply administrative guidelines related to division and departmental services; prepare clear, concise and complete reports and correspondence. Plan, organize and complete projects and lead and motivate employees to meet established deadlines. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with City applicants, employees, staff, supervisors, management, governmental officials, consultants, and others. Exercise independent judgment and initiative within established guidelines. Manage the selection, training, evaluation, and disciplining of City staff and resolution of interpersonal conflicts. Maintain confidentiality of sensitive personnel information. Work independently. EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Option A:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in human resources management, public or business administration, organizational development, industrial and organizational psychology, or a closely related field. Five years of recent, paid progressively responsible and professional-level public sector human resources experience in any of the following areas: employee relations, personnel administration, labor relations, recruitment and selection, classification and compensation, benefits administration, or training and development. Experience leading or directing the work of others is desirable. Option B:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree.
Seven years of recent, paid progressively responsible and professional-level public sector human resources experience in any of the following areas: employee relations, labor relations, personnel administration, recruitment and selection, classification and compensation, benefits administration, or training and development. Experience leading or directing the work of others is desirable.
Licenses, Certificates and/or Other Requirements: Possession of a valid Class C driver license or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions. Ability to work extended hours. Certification or specialized training in human resources management, contract negotiations, budgeting, project administration, and related areas is desirable. SELECTION PROCESS It is important that your application and supplemental questionnaire show all the relevant education, training, and experience you possess which qualifies you for this position. All applications and supplemental questionnaires will be reviewed and the most qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process. Be sure to be thorough in your responses. Statements such as "See application", "Extensive Experience", or "See Resume" are not an acceptable substitute for a completed application and supplemental questionnaire. The selection process may consist of an application screening, written exam, computer skills exam and/or an oral interview. The successful candidate's employment history will be thoroughly evaluated prior to appointment. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION There is currently one (1) vacancy within the Human Resources Department. Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email and spam regularly throughout the recruitment process. You may also log into your governmentjobs.com account to view these emails. CITY APPLICATION AND RESPONSES TO THE SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE MUST BE RECEIVED BY 5:30 PM ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2025. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)
The City of Santa Barbara is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an EEO employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, or other factors. We believe in fostering an inclusive work environment where employees feel valued, respected and empowered.
Disaster Services Assignments
As public employees, we play an enhanced role in the event of a disaster or other emergency in our community. You will be registered as a disaster services worker, and you will be issued a disaster services identification card. In the event of a disaster or other emergency, make sure that your family is safe and secure first, then report to your assigned emergency location. Hourly employees generally do not receive disaster services assignments. STEP INCREASES , through the top salary step, are tied to job performance with annual performance reviews.
THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS
may vary and are subject to change: Note: Part-time employees receive pro-rated benefits, e.g., 50%, 60%, etc.
Cell Phone Allowance
of $50 per month will be provided to those applicable employees who do not have a City issued cell phone. Deferred
Compensation
(457) Savings Plan is available. Employee Assistance Program
(EAP): A City-paid Employee Assistance Program is available for employees and family members. Flexwork / Telecommuting
is available. Health
Insurance
including medical, dental, and vision benefits is available. Click here for the benefits rate sheet:
Management Unit 2, 22, 32 Rate Sheet . Life
and
AD&D Insurance : City-paid term life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance (2x annual salary) is provided. Employee-paid supplemental life insurance is available subject to a health application if coverage is not elected during the new hire guarantee issue period. Holidays : 12 holidays are observed / year. Management
Leave : 64 hours are provided each July 1st (pro-rated the first year). Personal
Leave : 32 hours are provided each July 1st (pro-rated the first year). Medicare : Employee pays 1.45% of salary towards future Medicare benefits. Retirement : The City does not participate in Social Security. PERS Miscellaneous Formula: " Classic " members: 2.7% @ 55; City contributes 12.03% and employee contributes 8% of salary. " New " members: 2% @ 62; City contributes 12.03% and employee contributes 7.75% of salary. PERS Police Safety Formula: " Classic " members: 3% @ 50; City contributes 23.38% and employee contributes 9% of salary. " New " members: 2.7% @ 57; City contributes 23.38% and employee contributes 14% of salary. PERS Fire Safety Formula: " Classic " members: 3% @ 50; City contributes 27.8% and employee contributes 10.5% of salary. " New " members: 2.7% @ 57; City contributes 14.72% and employee contributes 14.5% of salary.
Short
Term
Disability
Insurance : Optional employee-paid coverage is available. L
ong-term Disability Insurance : City-paid coverage is provided. Sick Leave
is accrued at the rate of 96 hours / year. The City is an employer-member of the
Coastal Housing Partnership
which offers regular employees with home loan assistance and rental reductions. Uniforms
will be provided by the City to those employees required to wear a uniform. Vacation
is accrued at 120 hours / year, increasing with City service.
Revised 5/27/2025 01
Describe your professional human resources experience in administering staff development and organizational development programs and initiatives, including developing and delivering in person and web-based training content. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. 02
Describe your professional human resources experience in administering employee leaves of absence. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. If you have no experience, please enter N/A. 03
Describe your professional human resources experience in administering employee benefits programs. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. If you have no experience, please enter N/A. 04
Describe your professional human resources experience in administering employment-related selection processes, including recruitments and examinations. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. If you have no experience, please enter N/A. 05
Describe your professional human resources experience in administering classification and compensation studies, including developing classification specifications. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. If you have no experience, please enter N/A. 06
Describe your experience supervising or leading the work of others. For each employer where this experience was gained, include the agency name, job title, duration (years/months) duties performed, number of staff you led or supervised, and a description of such responsibilities. 07
Describe your professional human resources experience advising supervisors and managers on matters related to employee performance management, investigations, and discipline. For each organization where you obtained such experience, include the agency name, your job title, dates (year/month) duties performed, and key responsibilities. If you have no experience, please enter N/A. 08
Describe a significant HR program, process improvement, or technology you implemented that improved efficiency, compliance, or employee engagement. In your response, please address the following:A. What was the need?B. What were your responsibilities?B. How did you measure its effectiveness and what would you do differently, if anything? If you have no experience, please enter N/A. Required Question