Boston Human Resources Department - Boston, MA

Office of Human Resources: Empowering Boston's Workforce

The Office of Human Resources (OHR), located within Boston City Hall, serves as the central personnel agency for the City of Boston. It is responsible for attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse and qualified workforce dedicated to serving the city's residents. The department partners with all city agencies to manage the entire employee lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding to benefits administration and retirement.

Talent Acquisition and Employment

OHR leads the city's recruitment efforts, ensuring fair and open access to municipal employment opportunities. Through the Career Center, the office manages job postings for a wide range of positions, including civil service roles, administrative staff, and specialized technical jobs. The department is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion, striving to build a workforce that reflects the community it serves. Prospective employees can access the Beacon portal to search for openings and submit applications online.

Benefits and Wellness Administration

A core function of the department is the administration of comprehensive benefits for city employees and retirees. The Health Benefits and Insurance division (located in Room 807) oversees health, dental, and vision insurance plans, as well as life insurance options. The office also manages the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which provides confidential support and counseling services to help employees manage personal and work-related challenges. Additionally, OHR coordinates wellness initiatives designed to promote the long-term health and productivity of the municipal workforce.

Policies and Compliance

The Office of Human Resources establishes and enforces personnel policies that govern workplace conduct, compensation, and leave. It ensures compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws, including the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The department also handles classification and compensation, determining appropriate salary grades and job descriptions to ensure equitable pay across the city government.

Visiting the Office

The main Human Resources office is located in Room 612 of Boston City Hall. Visitors seeking assistance with applications, benefits questions, or employment verification can visit during standard business hours. As City Hall is a secure government facility, all visitors must pass through security screening upon entry, including metal detectors and bag checks. Public parking is not available directly at City Hall, but the location is highly accessible via public transportation, with the Government Center and State Street subway stations just steps away.