Director of Human Resources

Alpha Resource Center of Santa Barbara, based in Santa Barbara, California, is seeking a seasoned Director of Human Resources to lead on-site people operations. Reporting to the Executive Director, this senior role guides HR strategy across recruitment, employee relations, compliance, safety, and organizational development to support the organization’s mission. The position offers a salary range of USD 105,000 to 135,000 per year and requires a minimum of five years of senior HR leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Report directly to the Executive Director as the organization’s chief HR leader.
• Provide strategic direction on staffing, organizational development, and workforce planning.
• Design, implement, and continuously refine HR policies, programs, and best practices.
• Cultivate a safe, healthy, inclusive, and positive workplace culture.
• Act as an active member of the Executive Management Team, contributing to organizational planning and decision-making.
• Collaborate with the Board of Directors and the Compensation and Staffing Committee on HR strategy, executive compensation, workforce planning, and organizational initiatives.
• Develop and execute recruitment strategies to attract and retain high-quality, mission-driven employees.
• Partner with department heads to ensure staffing levels align with operational needs and goals.
• Ensure all recruitment, hiring, and onboarding practices comply with applicable laws and internal policies.
• Manage the full-cycle hiring process, including sourcing, interviews, selection, background checks, offers, and new-hire communications.
• Coordinate background clearances and employment eligibility requirements.
• Oversee benefits enrollment and administration.
• Coordinate new employee orientation and required training.
• Review the employee handbook and obtain policy acknowledgments.
• Develop and maintain job descriptions and wage disclosures.
• Provide safety and injury prevention training.
• Oversee retirement plan enrollment, as applicable.
• Serve as the primary resource for managers on employee relations, performance management, coaching, investigations, and disciplinary matters.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
• Oversee leave administration for medical, family, pregnancy disability, workers’ compensation, and other protected leaves.
• Administer employee benefits programs and act as the primary liaison with benefit providers.
• Oversee compensation administration and recommend wage and benefit strategies that support recruitment, retention, and internal equity.
• Maintain accurate employee records, HRIS data, personnel files, and required documentation.
• Oversee retirement plan administration, including required reporting and employee communications.
• Ensure payroll, timekeeping, and attendance policies are upheld.
• Oversee performance evaluation processes and employee development initiatives.
• Ensure promotions, compensation adjustments, and employment actions align with policies and budget.
• Manage employee separations with legal compliance and a respectful offboarding experience.
• Analyze HR metrics such as turnover, vacancies, leave trends, and engagement to identify improvement opportunities.
• Lead workplace safety initiatives and promote a culture of safety across all locations.
• Ensure timely reporting and management of workplace injuries, workers’ compensation claims, and return-to-work programs.
• Ensure required safety training is completed and safety policies are consistently followed.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director, Finance Director, and leadership team on organizational planning and workforce initiatives.
• Assist in developing and managing the HR budget.
• Recommend, develop, and implement personnel policies and procedures that boost organizational effectiveness.
• Keep leadership informed of changes in employment laws, regulatory requirements, and HR best practices.
• Identify workforce trends and propose proactive solutions related to recruitment, retention, engagement, succession planning, and organizational development.
• Develop and deliver training for managers and supervisors to strengthen leadership and employee engagement.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Directly supervise the Human Resources Assistant, providing leadership, coaching, performance management, and professional development.

Requirements

• Authorized to work in the United States.
• Valid California driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of automobile insurance.
• Demonstrated knowledge of California employment laws and HR best practices.
• Proven ability to build trusted relationships and coach leaders on employee relations and organizational matters.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities with attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Proficiency with HRIS, Microsoft Office, and standard business software.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with employees at all levels.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace and the ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Minimum of five years of senior HR leadership experience.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Hours of Work

This is a full-time, exempt role with typical Monday through Friday hours. Flexibility is required to meet organizational needs. Regular attendance and punctuality are essential, and occasional evening meetings or events, including Board meetings, may be required.

Application Question

This position requires successful completion of a DOJ Live Scan background clearance as a condition of employment. Are you willing and able to complete this requirement?