Classification and Compensation Specialist

The Human Resources Department is seeking a collaborative and detail-oriented Classification and Compensation Specialist to join our team. This position plays a key role in maintaining and enhancing the City's classification and compensation program by developing and maintaining classifications, partnering with departments to create career pathways, conducting salary surveys, and supporting compensation analysis efforts.

This is an exciting opportunity for an HR professional who enjoys analytical work, organizational design, and partnering with departments to develop creative workforce solutions. The successful candidate will help ensure the City's classification structure remains current, equitable, and aligned with operational needs while supporting long-term workforce planning initiatives.

Working closely with Human Resources staff, department leadership, and subject matter experts across the organization, this position contributes to projects that directly impact employee growth opportunities, organizational effectiveness, and compensation practices.

What You'll Do

As the Classification and Compensation Specialist, you will:

• Develop, review, revise, and maintain classification specifications to accurately reflect the work performed throughout the organization.
• Conduct classification studies and job analyses through interviews, research, and collaboration with department leadership and employees.
• Partner with departments to develop career ladders, progression pathways, and classification structures that support employee development and succession planning.
• Research organizational best practices and emerging workforce trends to support classification and compensation recommendations.
• Conduct targeted salary surveys and market analysis to support compensation decisions and maintain external competitiveness.
• Coordinate and respond to compensation and classification surveys from public and private sector organizations.
• Maintain classification and compensation records, documentation, and supporting data.
• Assist in implementing classification and compensation projects and organizational initiatives.
• Prepare reports, recommendations, and supporting documentation for management review.
• Provide guidance and support to departments regarding classification-related questions and processes.
• Serve as a backup to the Classification and Compensation Analyst for time-sensitive requests and projects as assigned.
• Support the ongoing maintenance and continuous improvement of the City's classification and compensation program.

Our Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is an analytical and customer-focused HR professional who enjoys balancing technical work with partnership and collaboration. They are curious, detail-oriented, and able to translate complex information into practical solutions.

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Knowledge of classification and compensation principles, practices, and methodologies.
• Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to interpret data and identify trends.
• Excellent written communication skills, including the ability to develop clear and accurate classification specifications and reports.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build productive relationships across all levels of an organization.
• The ability to facilitate discussions and gather information from subject matter experts and operational leaders.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Sound judgment, discretion, and attention to detail.
• A commitment to equity, consistency, and customer service.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Associate’s degree in a closely related field; and three years of experience in Human Resources with one year of experience in classification and compensation; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

LICENSE(S) / CERTIFICATIONS:

• Valid, current Driver’s License and safe driving record 

Application Limit

This recruitment will close after receiving 150 completed applications or on the posted closing date of 7/12/2026, whichever occurs first. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as the posting may close without notice once the cap is reached.

Why Work for Hillsboro?

At the City of Hillsboro, we’re committed to supporting employees with a comprehensive package of benefits and resources designed to promote health, well-being, and growth.

When you join our team, you’ll enjoy:

• Competitive pay with City contributions to PERS retirement
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• paid time off for vacation, sick leave, holidays, and more
• Deferred compensation match and HRA VEBA contributions to boost your future savings
• City-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability insurance
• Extra perks like bilingual pay incentives and wellness reimbursements
• Free TriMet annual Hop pass and SHARC recreation access for you and your family
• Paid time off to volunteer in the community through Hillsboro Helps
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
• A supportive workplace that values work/life balance and employee wellness

To learn more about our robust benefits package please click here.

Bilingual Incentive Pay 
Preference may be given to candidates who are bilingual in English and Spanish. Employees who demonstrate proficiency in Spanish, or in any language spoken by more than ten percent (10%) of City residents as identified by the most recent U.S. Census, may be eligible for a bilingual pay premium. To qualify, employees must successfully pass a City-administered fluency assessment. Eligible employees will receive a monthly premium equal to three percent (3%) of their regular base pay.