Director, Human Resource, IS-0201-14

Smithsonian Institution•Cambridge, MA

32d•Onsite

About The Position

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). The CfA is the best-known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground-based astronomy and astrophysics research to space-based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground-based facilities, and research designed to improve science education. The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support. Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non-Federal contracts and grants. The position provides direction to subordinate managers, supervisors, and technical specialists, exercising broad authority for the supervision and integration of complex human resources programs. The incumbent is responsible for overseeing both Federal and non-federal (Trust) hiring processes, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and compliance across categories of employment. The incumbent leads electronic initiatives and modernization efforts, driving the adoption of new HR systems, digital workflows, and process innovations to enhance efficiency, transparency, and the employee experience across the organization.

Requirements

Candidates must possess at least one year of specialized experience at or above the grade 13 level in similar positions, such as demonstrated skill in implementing HR policies and procedures across multiple areas, such as staffing, classification, and employee relations, proficiency in applying federal position classification standards and guidance, and working knowledge of immigration law as it relates to employment and workforce management.
Mastery of HR principles, concepts, and regulations; deep knowledge across classification, staffing, employee relations, compensation, performance management, training, and HR systems.
Expert knowledge of federal position classification, including application of OPM standards and guidance.
In-depth understanding of or ability to learn research operations, with the ability to align HR policies and practices to support research goals.
Advanced ability to assess and translate legislative changes into actionable HR strategies.
Skill in coordinating multiple complex HR activities across geographically dispersed teams.
Expert written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain, advocate, implement policies, and constructively resolve disputes
Ability to stay abreast of changes in employment and immigration law and apply them effectively to SAO programs.
Demonstrated authority in building and managing collegial, collaborative teams, with the ability to coach supervisors and provide institution-wide training.
Expertise in establishing and sustaining collegial relationships across all organizational levels, with the ability to model effective practices and mentor supervisors.
Expert knowledge of delegated examining procedures, principles, and merit system requirements to ensure compliance with Federal hiring laws and regulations, and the ability to advise on competitive hiring practices.