Senior Human Resources Business Partner, Research

As the Senior HR Business Partner (HRBP) for Research, you will collaborate closely with our leaders to define and drive our talent strategy, navigate organizational change, and ensure readiness for the future. This role places you at the forefront as a strategic partner, guiding leaders on critical priorities including talent management, succession planning, capability development, employee engagement, performance optimization, and the cultivation of an inclusive culture. You will take ownership of workforce planning and development, playing a key role in shaping the Lab’s evolution and growth. You are a dedicated champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring these values are embedded in all we do. You will be responsible for managing employee relations and other daily activities, ensuring these efforts contribute to a positive work environment and support the Lab’s overall operational effectiveness.

A proud U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is a longstanding leader in the science and innovation behind the development of fusion energy — a clean, safe, and virtually limitless energy source. With an eye on the future and in response to national priorities, PPPL also has begun a strategic shift from a singular focus on fusion energy to a multi-focus approach that includes microelectronics, quantum information science, and sustainability science. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to make their mark on our world. PPPL aims to attract and support people with a rich variety of backgrounds, interests, experiences, and cultural viewpoints. We are committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility and believe that each member of our team contributes to our scientific mission in their own unique way. Come join us!

Core Duties

The responsibilities:

• Collaborate with leaders to develop comprehensive talent strategies, leveraging expertise in organizational design, workforce planning and development, and resource optimization initiatives, including change management considerations.
• Proactively partner with leaders on complex organizational challenges and manage people-related solutions.
• Coach managers on team building, performance management, talent development, equitable management practices, and fostering open communication and feedback.
• Partner and collaborate within the HR community to ensure consistent and organized management of employee lifecycle processes and design and execution of strategies for how we staff, onboard, develop, motivate, engage, and retain talent.
• Utilize analytics to guide your work, providing insights to leadership regarding their organization and develop strategies in response to the trends.
• Commit to a culture of continuous improvement to advance how our team operates to be more impactful.
• Skilled in managing employee relation matters, ensuring adherence to policies and our Code of Conduct and promoting cultural and behavioral expectations.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• A minimum of a BS/BA Degree in business, HR or related major is required.
• A minimum of 10 years relevant HR experience, with 6 years experience in an HR Business Partner role is required, with preference for experience supporting leaders in Research & Development.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• This role requires a results-oriented HR professional who takes initiative in a complex matrix environment and can transition between high-level strategy and hands-on attention to detail and execution.

• Strong written and verbal communication and consultation skills and proven track record in a client-facing role, including the ability to collaborate and work with senior leaders in the areas of organizational design, coaching, influencing and developing people leaders, driving performance management, and leading DEIA initiatives.

• Ability to problem solve by getting to the root causes and executing strategic solutions.

• Ability to collect and utilize data to share insights and tell an informed story to influence outcomes.

• You should possess a builder mentality, value transformation, and be enthusiastic about rolling up your sleeves to actively contribute to continuous improvement.

Certificates and Licenses

• PHR or SPHR, or other related certification preferred.
• DDI Certificated preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Maintain a physical presence at our Princeton NJ office for 3 days per week, with flexibility to adjust as needed, including occasional additional days.
• Limited travel.

Working Conditions

• Office setting, home office.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.