Director of Total Rewards

ETSU•Johnson City, TN

10d

About The Position

The Director of Total Rewards provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the university’s compensation and benefits programs. This role develops and executes a comprehensive total rewards strategy that supports workforce planning, financial sustainability, and the institution’s ability to attract and retain top talent. The Director serves as a senior advisor to executive leadership and ensures programs are competitive, equitable, transparent, and compliant.

Requirements

Advanced knowledge of compensation strategy, job evaluation methodologies, salary structures, market pricing, and pay equity principles.
Knowledge of federal and state laws governing compensation and benefits, including FLSA, Equal Pay Act, Title VII, ADA, and related regulations.
Understanding of integrated total rewards programs, including compensation, benefits, incentives, and recognition.
Experience interpreting compensation survey data and labor market trends (e.g., CUPA-HR, Mercer, Salary.com).
Strong financial acumen to assess program costs, budget impact, and long-term sustainability.
Advanced analytical skills with the ability to evaluate complex datasets and develop actionable insights.
Demonstrated leadership skills, including team management, coaching, and development of HR professionals.
Exceptional communication and influencing skills, with the ability to present complex information to executive audiences.
Ability to guide organizational change related to pay structures, workforce planning, or program redesign.
Ability to address sensitive pay issues, resolve disputes, and recommend solutions that balance equity, compliance, and fiscal constraints.
Strong relationship-building skills and ability to collaborate across diverse stakeholder groups.
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field, and a minimum of five years of progressive HR experience, including significant experience in compensation, benefits, or total rewards.
Associate’s Degree/ Two years of College + Two (2) years of related work experience OR four (4) years of related work experience (plus any additional required experience)

Nice To Haves

Master's degree or HR certification (e.g., CCP, PHR, SHRM-CP).
Experience working in higher education, the public sector, or other mission-driven organizations.
Familiarity with HRIS and compensation management systems (Oracle experience highly preferred).