Join a Team That Makes a Difference
At the City of Palm Desert, we believe exceptional service starts with exceptional teammates. Our culture is built on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to serving our community.
People First: We support one another with respect, empathy, and care.
Stronger Together: We collaborate across teams, support leadership, and work collectively toward meaningful outcomes for our residents.
Clear & Thoughtful Communication: We listen actively, communicate with purpose, and follow through.
Integrity in Action: We act professionally, address challenges constructively, and focus on solutions.
Ownership & Growth: We take pride in our work, embrace accountability, adapt to change, and continuously learn.
THE OPPORTUNITY The City of Palm Desert is seeking a Human Resources Specialist to join its collaborative, service-focused Human Resources team. This position plays a key role in delivering responsive customer service and high-quality administrative support to employees, supervisors, and the public. The Human Resources Specialist helps keep our workplace running smoothly by assisting with recruitment coordination, onboarding, records management, employee events, and day-to-day HR operations, while also supporting special projects across a variety of HR functions.
We’re looking for someone who is highly organized, approachable, and genuinely enjoys helping others. The ideal candidate has strong communication skills and has the ability to manage multiple priorities with professionalism and discretion. This individual enjoys providing solutions, works effectively both independently and collaboratively, and is committed to providing exceptional support that enhances the overall employee experience. A sense of humor, growth mindset, and direct experience in Human Resources is a must!
DEFINITION Under general supervision, provides technical and paraprofessional assistance and support in addressing Human Resources information and service needs in the recruitment and selection process, new employee onboarding and orientation, employee programs, classification analysis, performance evaluation, and training programs; lead and assists in carrying out the programs and activities of the Human Resource’s Office performs other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Exercises no supervision. Receives supervision from supervisory or management staff. Does not directly or indirectly supervise other employees but may provide technical direction and training to less experienced staff. This position possesses a comprehensive, authoritative understanding of human resources functions and activities, in addition to completing technical and paraprofessional assignments and assisting in managing department projects and programs. Incumbents at this level are capable of performing advanced and complex technical and programmatic support duties requiring the use of considerable discretion and independent judgment in performing assigned work and have responsibility for ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of assigned program or operational area. Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver work products or services. Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness, and conformity to policy and requirements.
Provides specialized support in addressing Human Resources information and service requests from City management, staff and the public; provides information to City Departments and Divisions on City policies and procedures, and the status of requests. Provide administrative services to other departments and divisions as requested.
Participates in human resources projects and programs including the City’s recruitment process; on-boarding and off-boarding process; performance management, tuition reimbursement, and employee recognition; coordinates and integrates program services and activities with other agencies and City departments.
Maintains records and updates benefits documentation, insurance coverages, retirement plans, notices and documentation, personnel transactions, new hires, promotions, transfers, performance reviews, terminations.
Performs audits of benefits premiums collected against benefits invoices. Resolves billing discrepancies and processes invoice payments for the Human Resources division in compliance with City’s purchasing policies.
Skillfully utilizes a personal computer to prepare and maintain a variety of Human Resources files, records and reports, to interface with and maintain files on the City's internal computer network and access internet sites as needed. Responsible for personnel records retention and compliance with State guidelines.
Maintains computerized employee database; monitors notifications to Departments and Divisions of merit evaluation dates; tracks and prepares documentation for salary step changes.
Provides technical and paraprofessional support to City Departments and Divisions in the recruitment process; drafts recruitment plans and job announcements; places advertisements in publications, the City/Human Resources web page and on-line sources.
Participates in the selection process by scheduling applicants for testing and administering tests; may prepare tests and interview rating sheets; arranges interviews and orients interview panels, and participates on interview panels as needed; prepares and maintains eligibility lists and associated files.
Tracks new employee clearances, such as physical examinations, drug screening and background investigations; conducts designated new employee orientations; prepares and oversees processing of personnel documents related to hiring, promotions, salary adjustments, retirements, terminations and evaluations.
Assist in the administration of employee benefits; explains benefit programs to employees, prepares forms and completes paper or on-line enrollment; oversees or performs reconciliation and payment of monthly insurance premiums; participates in coordinating annual open enrollment efforts and processes changes on the on-line system.
Assist in processing Worker's Compensation and liability claims; coordinates the gathering of information and transmits documents to third-party administrators for processing.
Maintains and updates salary schedules and MOU's for City bargaining units; distributes after approval and ensures appropriate electronic publication.
Coordinates a variety of training workshops offered by the Human Resources Division; communicates relative Human Resources and employee information both verbally and in writing; maintains Human Resources website, intranet, and other internal and external communication tools.
Maintains confidential employee files and a variety of personnel forms, benefit and retirement brochures and other records.
Provides input into the preparation of Division budget; ensures up-to-date recording of expenditures; oversees or prepares payments for designated Accounts Payable.
Performs related additional duties and/or completes special projects as assigned.
May collect and analyze data and prepares a variety of statistical and other confidential reports on salary and benefit cost proposals in support of City negotiations; conducts salary and benefit surveys as needed; tabulates information and prepares summaries of data; maintains a computer database of salaries, benefits and cost of living increases for agencies in the local labor market.
May represent the City and the Human Resources Office internally and externally.
May assist with City Council or Commission reports.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge of:
Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned areas of responsibility.
Terminology, practices, and procedures of technical human resources document processing and record keeping.
Technical principles and practices of researching, compiling, and reporting on personnel information.
Record keeping and filing principles, procedures, systems, and methods.
Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work.
Business letter writing and the standard format for reports and correspondence.
Methods of preparing and processing various records, reports, forms, and other documents specific to the accounting department.
English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.
Business arithmetic and basic financial and statistical techniques.
Basic public personnel principles and practices related to recruitment, selection, compensation and benefits administration.
Basic principles of research, recordkeeping and report preparation.
Modern office practices and procedures, business English and business arithmetic.
Computer applications including word processing, spreadsheet and database software.
Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
Ability to:
Learn, interpret, apply, and explain applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations, ordinances, and City policies and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility.
Learn and understand the organization and operation of the City and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
Perform clerical and technical human resources and personnel support work accurately and in a timely manner.
Gather, summarize, and present information and data in an effective manner.
Review information and documents for completeness and accuracy.
Prepare, examine, analyze, and verify clear, complete, and concise documents and reports.
Maintain accurate databases, records, and files.
Perform arithmetic, financial, and statistical computations accurately.
Organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines.
Effectively use computer systems, software, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.
Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Developing effective recruitment plans and selection procedures.
Preparing clear, concise and effective written materials.
Organizing work and meeting recurring and intensive deadlines.
Performing highly detailed work on multiple, concurrent tasks.
Maintaining accurate records and files.
Researching and compiling information and preparing reports and recommendations.
Exercising sound judgment within established guidelines.
Establishing, maintaining, fostering effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work.
Effectively utilizing a personal computer and work processing, spreadsheet and database software.
Education and Experience: Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Equivalent to completion of 60 semester (or equivalent quarter) units from an accredited college or university specialized training in business, public administration or human resources. Four years of progressively responsible human resources office/program experience in recruitment and selection, risk management/Worker's Compensation, and salary and benefit program administration.
Licenses and Certifications:
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California driver’s license by the time of appointment may be required for certain assignments.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone. This is primarily a sedentary office classification although standing and walking between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 10 pounds with the use of proper equipment. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals on a case‑by‑case basis.
ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures. Position(s) may be required to work overtime hours as needed.
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At the City of Palm Desert, we believe exceptional service starts with exceptional teammates. Our culture is built on trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to serving our community.
People First: We support one another with respect, empathy, and care.
Stronger Together: We collaborate across teams, support leadership, and work collectively toward meaningful outcomes for our residents.
Clear & Thoughtful Communication: We listen actively, communicate with purpose, and follow through.
Integrity in Action: We act professionally, address challenges constructively, and focus on solutions.
Ownership & Growth: We take pride in our work, embrace accountability, adapt to change, and continuously learn.
THE OPPORTUNITY The City of Palm Desert is seeking a Human Resources Specialist to join its collaborative, service-focused Human Resources team. This position plays a key role in delivering responsive customer service and high-quality administrative support to employees, supervisors, and the public. The Human Resources Specialist helps keep our workplace running smoothly by assisting with recruitment coordination, onboarding, records management, employee events, and day-to-day HR operations, while also supporting special projects across a variety of HR functions.
We’re looking for someone who is highly organized, approachable, and genuinely enjoys helping others. The ideal candidate has strong communication skills and has the ability to manage multiple priorities with professionalism and discretion. This individual enjoys providing solutions, works effectively both independently and collaboratively, and is committed to providing exceptional support that enhances the overall employee experience. A sense of humor, growth mindset, and direct experience in Human Resources is a must!
DEFINITION Under general supervision, provides technical and paraprofessional assistance and support in addressing Human Resources information and service needs in the recruitment and selection process, new employee onboarding and orientation, employee programs, classification analysis, performance evaluation, and training programs; lead and assists in carrying out the programs and activities of the Human Resource’s Office performs other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Exercises no supervision. Receives supervision from supervisory or management staff. Does not directly or indirectly supervise other employees but may provide technical direction and training to less experienced staff. This position possesses a comprehensive, authoritative understanding of human resources functions and activities, in addition to completing technical and paraprofessional assignments and assisting in managing department projects and programs. Incumbents at this level are capable of performing advanced and complex technical and programmatic support duties requiring the use of considerable discretion and independent judgment in performing assigned work and have responsibility for ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of assigned program or operational area. Assignments are given with general guidelines and incumbents are responsible for establishing objectives, timelines, and methods to deliver work products or services. Work is typically reviewed upon completion for soundness, appropriateness, and conformity to policy and requirements.
Provides specialized support in addressing Human Resources information and service requests from City management, staff and the public; provides information to City Departments and Divisions on City policies and procedures, and the status of requests. Provide administrative services to other departments and divisions as requested.
Participates in human resources projects and programs including the City’s recruitment process; on-boarding and off-boarding process; performance management, tuition reimbursement, and employee recognition; coordinates and integrates program services and activities with other agencies and City departments.
Maintains records and updates benefits documentation, insurance coverages, retirement plans, notices and documentation, personnel transactions, new hires, promotions, transfers, performance reviews, terminations.
Performs audits of benefits premiums collected against benefits invoices. Resolves billing discrepancies and processes invoice payments for the Human Resources division in compliance with City’s purchasing policies.
Skillfully utilizes a personal computer to prepare and maintain a variety of Human Resources files, records and reports, to interface with and maintain files on the City's internal computer network and access internet sites as needed. Responsible for personnel records retention and compliance with State guidelines.
Maintains computerized employee database; monitors notifications to Departments and Divisions of merit evaluation dates; tracks and prepares documentation for salary step changes.
Provides technical and paraprofessional support to City Departments and Divisions in the recruitment process; drafts recruitment plans and job announcements; places advertisements in publications, the City/Human Resources web page and on-line sources.
Participates in the selection process by scheduling applicants for testing and administering tests; may prepare tests and interview rating sheets; arranges interviews and orients interview panels, and participates on interview panels as needed; prepares and maintains eligibility lists and associated files.
Tracks new employee clearances, such as physical examinations, drug screening and background investigations; conducts designated new employee orientations; prepares and oversees processing of personnel documents related to hiring, promotions, salary adjustments, retirements, terminations and evaluations.
Assist in the administration of employee benefits; explains benefit programs to employees, prepares forms and completes paper or on-line enrollment; oversees or performs reconciliation and payment of monthly insurance premiums; participates in coordinating annual open enrollment efforts and processes changes on the on-line system.
Assist in processing Worker's Compensation and liability claims; coordinates the gathering of information and transmits documents to third-party administrators for processing.
Maintains and updates salary schedules and MOU's for City bargaining units; distributes after approval and ensures appropriate electronic publication.
Coordinates a variety of training workshops offered by the Human Resources Division; communicates relative Human Resources and employee information both verbally and in writing; maintains Human Resources website, intranet, and other internal and external communication tools.
Maintains confidential employee files and a variety of personnel forms, benefit and retirement brochures and other records.
Provides input into the preparation of Division budget; ensures up-to-date recording of expenditures; oversees or prepares payments for designated Accounts Payable.
Performs related additional duties and/or completes special projects as assigned.
May collect and analyze data and prepares a variety of statistical and other confidential reports on salary and benefit cost proposals in support of City negotiations; conducts salary and benefit surveys as needed; tabulates information and prepares summaries of data; maintains a computer database of salaries, benefits and cost of living increases for agencies in the local labor market.
May represent the City and the Human Resources Office internally and externally.
May assist with City Council or Commission reports.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge of:
Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned areas of responsibility.
Terminology, practices, and procedures of technical human resources document processing and record keeping.
Technical principles and practices of researching, compiling, and reporting on personnel information.
Record keeping and filing principles, procedures, systems, and methods.
Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work.
Business letter writing and the standard format for reports and correspondence.
Methods of preparing and processing various records, reports, forms, and other documents specific to the accounting department.
English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.
Business arithmetic and basic financial and statistical techniques.
Basic public personnel principles and practices related to recruitment, selection, compensation and benefits administration.
Basic principles of research, recordkeeping and report preparation.
Modern office practices and procedures, business English and business arithmetic.
Computer applications including word processing, spreadsheet and database software.
Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
Ability to:
Learn, interpret, apply, and explain applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations, ordinances, and City policies and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility.
Learn and understand the organization and operation of the City and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
Perform clerical and technical human resources and personnel support work accurately and in a timely manner.
Gather, summarize, and present information and data in an effective manner.
Review information and documents for completeness and accuracy.
Prepare, examine, analyze, and verify clear, complete, and concise documents and reports.
Maintain accurate databases, records, and files.
Perform arithmetic, financial, and statistical computations accurately.
Organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines.
Effectively use computer systems, software, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.
Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Developing effective recruitment plans and selection procedures.
Preparing clear, concise and effective written materials.
Organizing work and meeting recurring and intensive deadlines.
Performing highly detailed work on multiple, concurrent tasks.
Maintaining accurate records and files.
Researching and compiling information and preparing reports and recommendations.
Exercising sound judgment within established guidelines.
Establishing, maintaining, fostering effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work.
Effectively utilizing a personal computer and work processing, spreadsheet and database software.
Education and Experience: Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Equivalent to completion of 60 semester (or equivalent quarter) units from an accredited college or university specialized training in business, public administration or human resources. Four years of progressively responsible human resources office/program experience in recruitment and selection, risk management/Worker's Compensation, and salary and benefit program administration.
Licenses and Certifications:
Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California driver’s license by the time of appointment may be required for certain assignments.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone. This is primarily a sedentary office classification although standing and walking between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 10 pounds with the use of proper equipment. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals on a case‑by‑case basis.
ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures. Position(s) may be required to work overtime hours as needed.
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