Director of Human Resources

Chapel Haven Schleifer Center•New Haven, CT

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Chapel Haven Schleifer Center is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering adults with autism spectrum disorder and other cognitive and social disabilities to live independently and achieve self-directed lives. Through residential, educational, and community-based programs, we support individuals in reaching their fullest potential. Our work is grounded in compassion, dignity, inclusion, and a strong commitment to person-centered support. The Director of Human Resources serves as a strategic partner to senior leadership and oversees all HR functions across the organization. This role is responsible for developing and implementing HR strategies, policies, and programs that align with Chapel Haven’s mission and support a diverse, high-performing workforce. Key areas of responsibility include talent acquisition, employee relations, compliance, compensation and benefits, training and development, and HR operations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
5–7 years of progressive HR experience, including 3+ years in leadership or management
Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices
Experience in employee relations and complex HR issue resolution
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
HRIS and Microsoft Office proficiency

Nice To Haves

SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification
Experience in nonprofit, healthcare, human services, or disability services settings
Familiarity with Direct Support Professional (DSP) workforce environments

Responsibilities

Partner with senior leadership to align HR strategy with organizational goals and mission
Advise leadership on workforce planning, organizational structure, and change management
Promote organizational culture, values, and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
Oversee recruiting, hiring, and onboarding processes
Develop strategies to attract, retain, and engage mission-aligned talent
Support retention efforts including recognition programs and career development pathways
Serve as primary resource for employee relations and performance management issues
Ensure compliance with all applicable employment laws and regulations (FMLA, ADA, FLSA, OSHA, EEOC, etc.)
Maintain employee handbook, job descriptions, and HR policies
Oversee compensation structures and benefits administration
Conduct benchmarking to ensure market competitiveness and equity
Manage open enrollment and vendor relationships
Identify training needs and develop programs supporting compliance and staff development (e.g., CPR/first aid, mandated reporting, DEI, leadership development)
Support managers in coaching and employee development
Maintain HRIS systems and ensure data integrity
Provide strategic oversight of payroll operations, including compliance with wage and hour laws, payroll audits, process improvements, and coordination with HR and Finance staff
Produce HR metrics and reports to support leadership decision-making
Oversee workers’ compensation, unemployment, and related HR functions