Director of Human Resources (HR)

Washington Humane Society•Madison, NJ

1d•$145,000 - $155,000

About The Position

The Director of Human Resources is a strategic and operational leader overseeing core HR functions, including employee relations, compliance, recruitment, compensation and benefits, and performance management. The role also develops and implements foundational learning and development initiatives that support manager capability, staff growth, and organizational effectiveness. It is a working role involving both leadership and hands-on HR responsibilities. The Director establishes HR metrics and governance, improves processes in partnership with Finance and IT, forecasts workforce needs with organizational leaders, leads compensation and performance systems, supervises HR team members, and manages the HR department budget. The position provides guidance to managers on employee relations and legal compliance, administers benefits programs, and identifies training needs and delivers core learning initiatives. The position is based at the Humane Rescue Alliance’s Washington, D.C. or New Jersey campus. The schedule may combine onsite and remote responsibilities as determined by the supervisor, and occasional travel to the sister shelter is required (approximately 10%, or up to five weeks per year).

Requirements

Strong knowledge of federal and state employment laws and HR best practices.
Proven track record of driving process automation and efficiency.
Deep analytical mindset and experience using people data for strategic decision-making.
Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively across departments and maintain relationships with colleagues and departments.
Ability to manage confidential matters with integrity and professionalism.
Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, organizational development, or a related field.
At least 8 years of progressive HR experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership role.
Ability and willingness to travel to other shelter locations as needed.
Interest in and understanding of animal welfare.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree.
SHRM-SCP or PHR certification.
ADP experience; described as a plus and highly desired.
Multilingual ability; candidates may be offered a salary premium upon demonstrated proficiency in written and oral testing.

Responsibilities

Establish and track HR metrics and KPIs to support strategic decisions, assess program effectiveness, and report on workforce trends and organizational health to senior leadership.
Partner with Finance and IT to design and implement scalable HR processes that improve employee and manager self-service.
Establish governance and operational excellence across HR functions, ensuring compliance and consistency.
Partner with organizational leadership to forecast and meet workforce needs.
Lead equitable compensation strategies, job architecture, and performance evaluation systems.
Supervise HR team members and support their professional growth and effectiveness.
Develop and manage the HR department budget in alignment with organizational priorities and responsible stewardship.
Advise and coach managers on employee relations, performance management, conflict resolution, and employment-law compliance, including supporting the organization’s response to employee-related legal issues.
Ensure HR policies, procedures, and programs support organizational goals and comply with legal standards.
Plan, implement, and administer benefits programs, systems, policies, guidelines, compliance, and best practices.
Identify and prioritize organization-wide training needs and implement targeted learning strategies.
Design and deliver core training modules, including management development, onboarding, and professional growth.
Collaborate with departments on team-specific development plans and continuous learning cultures.
Perform other duties as assigned.