HR Director

Title: HR Director

Location: Jersey City, NJ

Salary: $120,000-$140,000

Schedule: Monday-Friday

Job Summary

We are seeking a Human Resources Director to join the senior leadership team at our established, mission‑focused early learning institution . As we continue to grow and explore opportunities for additional campuses, this role will be a strategic partner to the Founder and Center Directors, guiding HR strategy, elevating employee culture, and ensuring operational excellence across the organization.

Serving children from four months through first grade, we are powered by the strength, commitment, and professionalism of its people. We are looking for a self‑starter who brings both strategic insight and hands‑on execution- someone capable of independently leading all HR operations while collaborating closely with leadership to support a highly engaged, mission‑aligned workforce.

This is a highly visible, people‑centered leadership role. If you're driven by purpose, energized by building strong teams, and ready to shape a best‑in‑class employee experience, you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on an organization shaping the next generation of learners.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead HR strategies, policies, and practices that support the school's mission, culture, and growth trajectory.
• Partner with the Founder and Center Directors to align people strategy with broader organizational goals.
• Oversee full‑cycle talent acquisition, onboarding, and retention programs to attract and retain exceptional educators and staff.
• Design and implement professional development and training initiatives that drive engagement, skill growth, and career advancement.
• Provide guidance to leaders on employee relations, performance management, and organizational structure.
• Manage benefits administration, compliance programs, and HR systems with accuracy, confidentiality, and professionalism.
• Champion a positive, inclusive, collaborative workplace culture grounded in accountability and shared purpose.
• Track and analyze HR metrics, presenting insights and recommendations that support data‑driven decision‑making.
• Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM‑CP, SHRM‑SCP) preferred.
• 5–7+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, ideally within education or multi‑site environments.
• Demonstrated ability to build trust, influence, and credibility at all levels of an organization.
• Strong business acumen paired with a collaborative, solutions‑oriented leadership approach.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Deep understanding of employment law and HR best practices.
• Genuine passion for education and for fostering a workplace where educators, staff, and children thrive.