Description
Washington County Mental Health Services, Inc.
Human Resources Director
For more than 50 years, Washington County Mental Health Services (WCMHS) has served the Washington County community and the Orange County towns of Orange, Washington and Williamstown. WCMHS provides education, support, and treatment of individuals and families living with mental health challenges, substance use issues, and developmental and intellectual disabilities. Providing accessible, high-quality services in the community, schools, and health care settings, we work toward positive outcomes for wellness with collaborative, inclusive, and compassionate care. Washington County Mental Health Services is “Where Hope and Support Come Together.”
Position:
WCMHS is seeking a skilled and collaborative Director of Human Resources to lead the agency’s HR operations and guide strategic workforce initiatives. This role includes oversight of workforce planning and development, employee relations, compensation and benefits, staff training, and risk management, ensuring all HR practices align with legal standards, industry best practices, and the agency’s mission and values. As a member of the senior management team, the Director of Human Resources contributes to organizational strategy and planning, supervises HR leadership staff, and guides the HR team in delivering high-quality, inclusive, and responsive services.
Why This Role is an Exciting Opportunity
This is a transformational opportunity for the next HR Director to make a lasting impact at WCMHS and across Vermont. In this role, you will:
1. Build from the ground up by strengthening systems and embedding best-in-class HR practices.
2. Shape organizational strategy by working closely with the senior leadership team in innovative and creative ways.
3. Partner statewide by collaborating with peer agencies across Vermont to drive shared workforce and HR initiatives.
4. Influence public policy by guiding HR practices that inform and support state-level policy creation.
5. Bridge local and statewide impact — leading internal HR operations while also shaping initiatives that support Vermont’s broader human services network.
6. Drive long-term change by ensuring policies, programs, and workforce development efforts are designed to last and strengthen the organization for years to come.
This is not only a leadership position within WCMHS — it’s a chance to advance HR practice at a statewide level, shape policy, and build sustainable systems that support staff, clients, and communities throughout Vermont.
Qualifications
The ideal candidate for the Director of Human Resources at WCMHS is a strategic and collaborative leader with deep expertise in human resources operations, a strong commitment to inclusion and diversity, and the ability to align HR practices with organizational mission.
TO APPLY: We encourage applicants to apply via the WCMHS website Careers page. Applications (resume and cover letter) may also be emailed to [email protected] or mailed via USPS mail to WCMHS Human Resources, PO Box 647, Montpelier, VT 05601. Please note that only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. WCMHS strives to make our application process accessible to all. If you need language assistance or an accommodation in the application process, please contact us at [email protected] or 802-229-1399.
Washington County Mental Health Services is an equal opportunity employer. Grounded in our understanding that diversity makes us stronger, we are committed to inclusion in our workplace and services. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals and consider applications for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, health care coverage status, military status, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Requirements
Education and experience requirements for this position include:
Graduate degree in business, legal studies, or a related discipline.
Extensive experience in payroll, benefits administration, and managing core HR functions and projects.
Proven leadership and supervisory experience.
Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
Knowledge, skills, and competencies required for the position include:
Comprehensive knowledge of HR compliance, employment law, and benefits administration.
Strong professional writing, research, and analytical skills.
Demonstrated leadership and commitment to inclusion and diversity.
Ability to manage complex projects and meet critical deadlines.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and HR/payroll software.
Ability to work collaboratively and adaptively in a dynamic environment.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to lead with empathy and clarity.
Understanding of and commitment to advancing the WCMHS mission.
