Classification & Compensation Analyst - Human Resources Specialist 1, 2 or 3

About the role

The Classification & Compensation Analyst supports the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) classification and compensation systems through job evaluations, strategic consultation, and workforce planning. This role ensures fair, competitive, and well-aligned job classifications across the organization. You’ll join a team of skilled analysts and consultants who shape the agency’s workforce through thoughtful job evaluation, strategic insight, and classification expertise.

This position plays a key role in supporting DHS’s mission: helping people meet their basic needs so they can live in dignity and achieve their highest potential. You’ll be part of a team that values fairness, transparency, and innovation in public service.

This posting will be used to fill multiple vacancies. The position is eligible for telework for applicants who reside in Minnesota or in a bordering state (within 50 miles of the primary work location), with supervisory approval and satisfactory performance. The Department of Human Services is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas; applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct job evaluations and position audits to determine accurate and equitable classification
• Write formal classification determinations
• Contribute to job classification studies, Hay evaluations, and strategic workforce initiatives
• Consult with managers and HR partners on classification strategy and workforce planning
• Analyze organizational structures and evolving program needs to inform classification decisions

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

Human Resources Specialist 1:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources (HR) or a closely related field AND experience applying HR analytical concepts through internships, short-term roles, or project work (e.g., recruitment, job analysis, classification, or organizational development), paired with analytical writing or strategic thinking
• OR two years of HR support experience that includes exposure to job analysis, classification, or other analytical HR functions such as recruitment analytics, compensation support, workforce planning, or organizational development

Human Resources Specialist 2:

• Two years of HR experience conducting job analysis or classification work and making final decisions or recommendations on job alignment
• Experience may also include compensation analysis when paired with job evaluation or classification responsibilities

Human Resources Specialist 3:

• Three years of HR experience, including at least two years conducting formal job analysis or classification for a diverse mix of positions (technical, professional, supervisory, and managerial levels) and making final decisions or recommendations on job alignment
• Experience may include compensation analysis in support of classification or workforce planning
• A bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or a closely related field (e.g., Psychology, Business Administration with HR emphasis, Industrial Relations, Organizational Behavior) may substitute for one year of Human Resources experience

All applicants must also meet these additional required qualifications:

• Demonstrated research and analytical skills
• Skill in writing formal reports, research papers, or memorandums
• Relationship-building skills sufficient to build strong, collaborative working partnerships with agency managers and supervisors and be regarded as a trusted advisor and consultant
• Critical thinking and strategic planning skills sufficient to analyze and evaluate complex information, research and evaluate alternatives, independently make sound decisions, resolve conflicts, and provide guidance on a variety of HR issues
• Communication skills sufficient to explain sensitive, controversial decisions to employees and management in a clear and concise manner

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with a job evaluation system such as the Hay method
• Experience interpreting current employment laws, regulations, and policies related to classification, recruitment, selection, hiring, promotion, and/or retention of employees
• Experience conducting public sector job analysis/classification
• Experience conducting class studies or broader occupational classification reviews
• Experience contributing to HR projects, process improvements, or change management initiatives
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures

Pay

• HR Specialist 1: $26.12 - $37.91/hourly; $54,539 - $79,156/annually
• HR Specialist 2: $28.75 - $42.16/hourly; $60,030 - $88,030/annually
• HR Specialist 3: $31.81 - $46.96/hourly; $66,419 - $98,052/annually

Schedule

• Full-time, unlimited (permanent) position
• Day shift: Monday - Friday
• No travel required

Benefits

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
• Fertility care, including IVF
• Diabetes care
• Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer-paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being
• Support to help you reach your career goals:
  • Training, classes, and professional development
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (some positions may qualify)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support, including:
  • Mental health support
  • Relationship challenges (personal and work)
  • Grief and loss
  • Financial and legal issues
  • Daily living/convenience services (e.g., chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care)

Programs, resources, and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.