Human Resources

Our Culture

Our Policy

Forsyth County Government is committed to providing Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability or political affiliation. All employment and personnel policies and practices including recruiting, hiring, promotions, transfers, training, compensation, benefits, reductions-in-force, terminations and tuition assistance will be administered in a non-discriminatory manner consistent with EEO principles. The County is committed to complying with all applicable federal, state and local civil rights laws that pertain to employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity Plan

An Inclusive Culture for All

Diversity, Inclusion and Unity sits at the heart of everything we do at Forsyth County Government—from how we recruit talent, to the spaces we create for employees to express themselves and are encouraged to bring their “whole-self” to work, and the way we empower our community and the people we serve — Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) is woven into the fabric of our organization.

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A Learning Culture

We invest in developing our talented employees and leaders so they can work at their highest potential and thrive.

A Learning Culture

The Village that Drives Our Mission

Meet a few of the people making a difference at Forsyth County Government. Read their stories and see what they have to say when asked "Why is Forsyth County a great place to work?"

I wake up knowing I have the opportunity to work with individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, child maltreatment, elder abuse and human trafficking. Clients arrive at their lowest because of repeated crises and trauma, past or current. This public-private partnership, exists because leaders in our community are not afraid to make the invisible, visible, and to validate the experiences of community members seeking a path to safety, hope, healing, and strength. We all serve together tirelessly, across challenges, providing wraparound support with compassion, kindness, and survivor-centered, trauma-informed interventions. True joy! ​

DeWanna Hamlin

Director - Bridges to Hope Family Justice Center
I feel called to wake up and go to work every day at FCES. My short time here as an EMT and now moving to Equipment Tech within the department has taught me a lot about myself and what I am capable of. Most of all it has taught me that there is more to just waking up and going to work and collecting a paycheck. Lives are in our hands here and sometimes even our own lives are at risk. It's all worth it though, to save a life and know I've made a difference in someone's life at the end of the day. After 7 months of working as an EMT I took a lateral move into Logistics. Now I'm also helping the people/coworkers that are out there saving lives day in and day out. As a Veteran from the United States Marines, I can honestly say that this is the most fulfilling career I've ever been a part of and I'm so grateful to be a part of such an amazing agency. From the worker shortage to the everyday stress that we have overcome and putting ourselves in harm's way so that others may live, It's all worth it to call myself a Forsyth County EMT equipment tech at the end of the day. It's something I'm proud of and take pride in when someone asks me what I do for work. There is no shortage of heroes in this department and the departments that we work alongside each and every day. I am proud to be a part of this family.​

Jonathan Hamby

Equipment Technician - Emergency Services
Although I am relatively new to my position as a Library Assistant in Adult Outreach, I am already finding it extremely rewarding. Taking programs and resources to the traditionally underserved and most fragile members of our community is very gratifying. 2020 and 2021 have been difficult for our elderly, institutionalized, and homebound patrons. Isolation and loneliness is a problem many of them face. Being able to be out in the community, delivering materials, making connections, and being a friendly (masked) face to someone who needs it is very fulfilling.

Alane Pepper

Library Assistant - Library
When I got into this career, I was green and lost. From the beginning there were those that took an interest in me to ensure I succeeded. I have not forgotten those people or what they taught me. I am now in the position to teach and mentor those newly hired "green and lost' employees and honor those who came before me. I follow the adage of "You learn, you earn, and then you return".​

Lane Koontz

Captain - Sheriff's Office
I have been working for the Forsyth Public Library for 25 years. I love the fact that I have met a variety of people from all over and you know what they have in common? They think the library is just books. We are so much more! I came up from elementary school to college always with a book in my hand, whether to escape from everyday life or just fun reading. It makes my day, knowing that I have helped someone send a fax and when they say, "I've never been in a library" or "I haven't been to a library since I was in school". Seeing those type of comments excite me! Because that opens the door to inform them about what we offer. I love to help customers who are working on their resumes, job searching or adding apps to devices. When a customer walks in our doors, they don't look for status; they are looking for help and that makes me feel good. I believe and practice every day that it takes a village to help each customer. If I can help you in anyway and have you leave with a smile on your face...My job is done!​

Melanie Watkins

Library Assistant - Library
I love my job because one of the most rewarding aspects of working in the fire service is being surrounded by people who are so passionate about their work that you can't help but appreciate them. They arrive early for their shifts ready to go to work to help the great citizens of Forsyth County. They train to be the best all the time, they share their knowledge and practice humility. Their enthusiasm is a drawing force to everyone they meet. The support of our leadership allows us to keep practicing this county pride so we can in turn share that pride with all the great people we serve. It is the most wonderful job in the world!​

Joshua Wright

Fire Engineer - Emergency Services
When it comes to work, it was always about providing for my family. I grew up idolizing my father. He was a hardworking man that only wanted one thing out of life. To see his family happy! I never really knew what I wanted to be career wise, but I always wanted to be a provider like my father. Little did I know becoming a Sheriff Deputy did more than allow me to provide for my family but also give me one as well! This is why I love my job!​

Yancy Torres

Deputy Sheriff - Sheriff's Office
Whether it’s working with a coworker or an inmate, each day is different, and every interaction is a challenge I welcome. Turning someone's frown upside down isn't always easy when you are incarcerated. People look to me for answers, for information, and for guidance. Although the information I give them is many times restricted, I think it's more about the interaction they relate to and appreciate. Asking how someone is doing or encouraging someone doesn't cost a dime. After 18 years, I can walk into almost any housing unit, and someone needs to talk to me. Thats my job. Talking, guiding, helping and paying attention. Sometimes I pray with the inmates and hurt when they experience loss. If I can help make their process easier or less painful, we all win. I'm a person just like they are. It's my job to keep our inmates and my coworkers safe. I am here to help, not harm.​​

Lori Pounders

Detention Corporal - Sheriff's Office
Our Employee Statistics - REPORTED IN FEBURARY 2022

At a Glance

Number of County Employees

Average Years of Services

Average Age of Employees

Employees Recieving Longevity Pay

Leadership Positions

2020 Employee Survey

What Our Employees are Saying

  • Organizational Culture

    75% felt their immediate supervisor demonstrates the county’s Guiding WeCare Principles

  • WeCare Principles

    71% felt that their performance contributions are recognized by their supervisor

  • Longevity

    85% reported that they appreciate the county’s Longevity Pay

  • Wellness

    81% reported that they appreciate the county’s Wellness Program

  • 401(k)

    95% reported that they appreciate the county’s contribution to their 401K benefit

County Services

Runs Better Unleaded

Human Resources Department

  • We are located on the second floor
    of the Forsyth County Government Center.
  • 201 North Chestnut Street
    Winston-Salem, NC 27101
  • Phone: 336 703 2400
  • Fax: 336 727 2193
  • Email: Contact Us