RESPONSIBILITIES Manage and administer Gateway Center of Monterey County Human Resources functions, including recruitment and onboarding, employee relations, compensation, benefits, HR compliance, employee health and safety, employee relations, and performance management. Provide professional guidance and counsel to management in the development and implementation of policies and practices that comply with all applicable regulations and are consistent with Gateway Center’s mission and values. Collaborate with the Executive Director on a regular basis on ensuring compliance and building stronger employee engagement and organizational culture. ESSENTIAL DUTIES In collaboration with the Executive Director, establish and implement policies and procedures for the effective management of Gateway Center’s Human Resources functions that are compliant with Federal, State and local regulations and community practices. Maintain complete and compliant employee files, ensuring all staff meet licensing and vaccination requirements, including DOJ/FBI background checks, TB and health screenings, CPR/First Aid certifications, mandatory training, required employee competencies, annual refreshers, and all regulatory documentation requirements. Provide direct supervision, coaching and performance management for assigned direct reports to ensure high-quality work, accountability, and professional development. Contribute to operational strategic planning, providing perspective on staffing and employee development needs to support strategic direction. Prepare and support HR components of internal and external audits, including DDS, CCL, ICF and SARC reviews, ensuring regulatory readiness and timely corrective action. Control expenditures against budget, particularly in the areas of recruitment, compensation, benefits and staff development. Manage administrative and operational systems (e.g., Paylocity) to ensure accurate employee data, compliance documentation, reporting, and timely updates across all HR functions. Ensure a healthy and safe environment that complies with all OSHA and other regulatory requirements and lead safety efforts such as maintaining a regular safety committee in conjunction with other organizational leaders. Support and model a workplace culture rooted in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Take prompt, appropriate action to respond to conflicts between staff members. Lead and coordinate recruitment efforts for program and administrative roles, ensuring compliance with regulatory hiring requirements and developing a consistent recruitment pipeline. Oversee regulatory-compliant onboarding, ensuring all pre-employment requirements credentials, background checks, training, and documentation are completed prior to staff working with clients. Develop and oversee annual training plans, ensuring staff meet all competency and compliance requirements. Support workforce development and internal career pathways by coordinating skill-building, staff advancement opportunities, competency development, and succession planning initiatives.