Valerie Rivera
Pharr,TX
Summary
Dedicated and detail-oriented Human Resources professional with experience in compliance and HR processes. Skilled in maintaining accurate employee records, processing leave requests (FMLA, ADA, PWFA), Adept at handling sensitive employee matters, including terminations and investigations. Proven ability to collaborate across departments, streamline HR functions, and contribute to the overall success of the organization.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Workforce Development Manager
City of Pharr
Pharr, TX
10.2025 - Current
- Coordinate and implement employee training initiatives based on skills matrix results to address performance gaps, support career development, and align workforce capabilities with organizational goals.
- Plan, organize, and facilitate week-long onboarding and orientation programs for new hires to ensure a smooth transition, policy compliance, and early employee engagement.
- Coordinate annual mandatory trainings in accordance with employee policies, regulatory requirements, and organizational standards.
- Collaborate closely with the Risk Division to identify training needs related to employee mishaps, near misses, and incidents, ensuring corrective training is timely, relevant, and preventative.
- Partner with internal committees to assess training needs, identify appropriate learning opportunities, and establish short- and long-term workforce development goals.
- Build and maintain partnerships with colleges and educational institutions to identify and implement new professional development programs, certifications, and continuing education opportunities for staff.
- Collaborate with ESL program staff to coordinate ESL courses that support employee communication, productivity, and workplace effectiveness.
- Monitor training participation, completion, and outcomes to evaluate program effectiveness and support continuous improvement efforts.
- Serve as a liaison between departments, leadership, and external partners to ensure training initiatives align with organizational priorities and employee development needs.
Human Resources Specialist
City of Pharr
City Of Pharr
09.2021 - 01.2025
- Coordinate and process the Employee recognition programs, ensuring all qualifications and criteria are met, and employees are eligible for recognition; revise and implement policies to enhance clarity and ensure organization-wide awareness. Maintained accurate and up-to-date personnel records for all employees, ensuring compliance with company policies.
- Collaborate with department directors annually to review Employee of the Year criteria, encourage participation in nominations, and ensure a thorough understanding of the process. Assisted employees with changes to their personal information, benefits, and other HR-related updates.
- Oversee preparations for presenting Employee of the Month and Employee of the Year awards, working closely with city managers and department directors to ensure seamless execution and recognition.
- Processed public information requests. Managed investigation files, ensuring that relevant materials were prepared and processed for public information requests in accordance with organizational guidelines.
- Managed and processed FMLA, ADA, and PWFA requests, ensuring timely and accurate compliance. Monitored and tracked employee leave balances maintaining detailed calendars and sending out necessary exhaustion of leave notifications.
- Assisted in civil service testing setups.
- Administered and reviewed employee timesheets for all employees who are out on leave, ensuring accuracy and timely submission for payroll processing .
- Supported various departments with employee requests and issues, providing prompt resolution and assistance as needed.
- Processed exit procedures for departing employees, including conducting exit interviews, processing final paperwork. Maintained accurate records of employee resignation and termination memos, ensuring proper documentation and compliance with company policies.
- Assisted with other HR-related tasks and projects as needed, demonstrating flexibility and commitment to team success.
Administrative Assistant to City Managers Office
City Of Pharr
Pharr, TX
11.2018 - 09.2021
- Delivered top-notch administrative support to office staff, promoting excellence in office operations.
- Created and updated physical records and digital files to maintain current, accurate and compliant documentation.
- Sorted, opened and routed incoming correspondence and deliveries to help City Managers, Secretary & Community Liaison respond quickly to business and customer requirements.
- Assisted our local registrar in issuing out burial transit permits, birth/death certificates & any other assigned clerical work involving Texas health and human services.
- Responsible for setting up before a city commission meeting
- Assure that all invoices,PO's & check requests are processed.
- Prepared packages for shipment, pickup and courier services for prompt delivery to customers.
- Answered telephone calls to field inquiries from clients, vendors and various other callers seeking information.
Teller
IBC Bank
McAllen, TX
08.2015 - 07.2018
- Managed front desk/ teller area, including greeting all visitors , answering all telephone and in-person requests for information.
- Wrote and kept up with reports
- Made copies, sent faxes, and sent and received emails.
- Handled all customer needs and transactions in a timely manner.
Education
Bachelors in Organizational Leadership -
South Texas College
McAllen, TX12-2024
Associates in Social Work -
South Texas College
McAllen, TX12-2023
Skills
- Recordkeeping & Document Management
- Data Entry & Accuracy
- Strong Communication (Verbal & Written)
- Problem-Solving
- Confidentiality & Discretion
- Workforce training coordination
- Continuous improvement initiatives
- Data-driven decision making
- Leadership support and coaching
- Adaptability & Flexibility
- Attention to Detail
- Multitasking & Prioritization
Timeline
Workforce Development Manager
City of Pharr
10.2025 - Current
Human Resources Specialist
City of Pharr
09.2021 - 01.2025
Administrative Assistant to City Managers Office
City Of Pharr
11.2018 - 09.2021
Teller
IBC Bank
08.2015 - 07.2018
Bachelors in Organizational Leadership -
South Texas College
Associates in Social Work -
South Texas College