Human Resources Advisor

SALARY & FLSA: $31.37 - $47.05 per hour; FLSA non-exempt

The $31.37 hourly starting pay is structured to be competitive and may extend up to the $39.21 midpoint of the annual range, reflecting our commitment to offering competitive compensation to qualified candidates.

OPENING DATE: 06/11/2026

CLOSING DATE: 06/24/20 26 This position may close early if a sufficient number of qualified applications are received.

JOB TYPE: Regular, Full-time

UNION: Non-Represented

OPENINGS: 1

LOCATION: Hybrid (on grounds 3-4 days/week and remainder work remotely)

DEPARTMENT: People and Culture

The Human Resources Advisor provides expert guidance and operational support on employee relations, policy application, performance management, and compliance. In coordination with two other HR Advisors, you would support your assigned departments by fostering an inclusive, high-performing workplace.

Woodland Park Zoo welcomes more than 1.3 million visitors annually, connecting people with wildlife and inspiring action in the face of a changing world. As part of the People & Culture team, you play a vital role in fostering an engaged, inclusive, and mission-driven workforce that brings this purpose to life. When you support employees, you help advance our mission to save wildlife and make conservation a priority for all.

• A curious, solutions-oriented problem solver who digs into root causes, takes initiative, and finds practical, people-centered solutions, bringing both professionalism and a sense of purpose to situations.
• A trusted HR partner who combines strong knowledge of employment law and best practices with sound judgment to confidently guide employee relations, performance conversations, and policy decisions with integrity and care.
• A people-focused communicator who enjoys advising and building relationships, making complex HR topics feel clear, approachable, and actionable for leaders and employees alike.
• A highly organized, tech-savvy multitasker who keeps recruitment, onboarding, HRIS data, and operations running smoothly while skillfully managing multiple priorities.

• Manage end-to-end recruitment, hiring, and onboarding processes.
• Contribute to employee engagement, wellbeing, recognition, and DEAI initiatives.
• Provide HR advice to managers and employees on routine employee relations issues, including discipline, grievances, absence, and conflict resolution.
• Conduct workplace investigations and recommend actions aligned with policy and employment law.
• Interpret, implement, and communicate policies, procedures, and ensure compliance with legislation, best practices, and collective bargaining agreements.
• Assist with performance reviews, talent development, and learning initiatives.
• Coordinate training programs and support succession planning and career development efforts.
• Manage offboarding processes, including exit interviews and analysis of engagement and retention trends.
• Support reporting, metrics analysis, leave administration, and continuous improvement of processes and projects.
• Maintain accurate, confidential employee records.

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in an HR role with hands-on responsibility for employee relations, performance management, and policy interpretation.
• Experience supporting full-cycle recruitment, onboarding, and HR operations (e.g., HRIS data entry, reporting, leaves, or benefits coordination).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of HRIS systems.
• Strong ethics and reliability.
• Successful applicants must live and work in Washington State to perform this role.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

• HR certification (e.g., SHRM-CP, PHR, or equivalent).
• Experience working in a unionized environment and/or supporting labor relations activities.
• Experience in a public sector, nonprofit, zoo, museum, or similar mission-driven setting.

• Medical, dental, and vision HMO and PPO plans for you and eligible dependents.
• 11 paid holidays and 4 personal holidays.
• Accrue 12 vacation…