Human Resources Strategist

JOB SUMMARY
We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Human Resources Strategist to join our dynamic team. The Human Resources Strategist (HR Strategist) for the Higher Horizons Head Start Program will oversee all HR functions of the organization, ensuring the program attracts, retains, and develops a highly qualified and motivated staff. This role is pivotal in fostering a positive work environment, aligning HR strategies and talent with organizational goals, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

The HR Strategist is responsible for providing leadership in developing and executing human resources strategy in support of the overall strategic direction of the organization, specifically in the areas of staff wellness, talent management, change management, organizational and performance management, training and development, succession planning, and compensation. The HR Strategist provides strategic leadership by articulating HR needs and plans to the executive management team, stakeholders and to the board of directors.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Maintain knowledge of employment legislation, Head Start Performance Standards, and other applicable regulations; ensure agency’s compliance with Federal and State legislation pertaining to all personnel matters.
• Assess training and organizational development needs pertaining to human resources, develop plans, and monitor progress.
• Provide perspective and input to the finance team regarding comprehensive compensation and benefit plans that are competitive and cost effective for the organization.
• Recommend, evaluate, and participate in staff development for agency.
• Provide management training and support regarding human resource concerns including but not limited to compliance with state and federal law.
• Develop and implement talent recruitment and selection protocols to comply with Head Start Performance Standards.
• Participate in interviews as feasible and ensure that references, job requirements, and background checks are completed before any new employee is onboarded.
• Develop and implement onboarding procedures for new staff.
• Create and maintain employment records for each staff member based on state and federal regulations, and generate reminders when required file documents are coming due.
• Develop, maintain, and improve relationships with employees.
• Interpret and apply Federal and State regulations, statutes, and policies appropriate to program activities.
• Propose, publish, update, and administer personnel policies and procedures to ensure proper compliance; provide training as appropriate.
• Communicate with staff, changes in agency personnel policies and procedures and ensure proper compliance is followed.
• Work with managers to ensure that all program operations are effectively and efficiently managed, and that they meet the Head Start Performance Standards and all other applicable regulations, policies, and procedures.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic HR Leadership
• Talent Acquisition and Retention
• Employee Relations
• Performance Management
• Training and Development
• Compliance and Risk Management
• HR Administration
• Budget Management

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITES

• Assumes responsibility for own personal professional development including attending meetings and training and maintaining the appropriate competencies and abilities as required by the position.
• Complete monthly monitoring checks, to include action plans and follow-up as needed.
• Attend and positively participate at all staff meetings, in Higher Horizons' improvement processes, and professional development trainings.
• Adhere to personnel policies, EEO/AA requirements, fiscal procedures, and all other workplace rules.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Manual dexterity and visual skills required. Auditory and verbal skills required for communication with clients, staff, and the public.
• Work involving standing, sitting, bending.
• Must be able to stand and sit for forty-five (45) minute intervals.
• Must be able to move.
• Must be able to lift at least 50 pounds in all directions.
• Must be able to bend, stoop and reach.
• Must have the ability to see and hear, to be within sight and sound of children.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of HR experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership role. Experience in a Head Start program or similar nonprofit organization is highly desirable.
• Certifications- Professional HR certification (e.g., PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP), preferred.

SKILLS and ABILITIES

• Strong leadership and strategic thinking abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• In-depth knowledge of HR best practices and employment laws.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and projects.
• Attention to detail with ability to perform assignments efficiently and accurately.
• English oral and written communication skills (bilingual a plus).
• Proficiency in HRIS and other relevant software.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Basic computer, and mathematics skills

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60,320.00 - $66,560.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to Commute:

• Falls Church, VA (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Falls Church, VA: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Falls Church, VA

Salary : $60,320 - $66,560