Director, Human Resources, IS-0201-14

Director, Human Resources, IS-0201-14 Application Deadline: 26 June 2026 Department: Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory Employment Type: Full Time Location: Cambridge, MA Compensation: $142,452 - $185,193 per year Description Opening Date: May 27, 2026 Closing Date: June 26, 2026 Series/Grade: 0201/14 Type of Position: Trust Indefinite (Non‑Federal) Division: Human Resource Department Area of Consideration: Open to all eligible candidates Note: This position is not sponsorship eligible. What are Trust Fund Positions? Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid from a variety of sources including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from business activities, donations, grants, and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service and do not receive Federal status, but they work side by side with federal employees. Trust employees have a benefits program that may include health, dental, vision, life, commuter, and other benefits. Conditions of Employment Complete a pre‑employment background check. Complete any applicable probationary period. Maintain a bank account for direct deposit. Position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States without requiring proof at application. Meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date. Overview The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is a leading center for astrophysics research, partnered with Harvard. The Director, Human Resources will provide strategic leadership for HR programs, oversee both federal and trust hiring processes, lead electronic modernization, and ensure compliance across all HR functions. Major Duties Strategic Planning and Program Leadership Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with SAO’s mission and Smithsonian priorities. Advise senior leadership on workforce planning and personnel matters. Provide regular reporting on HR processes, metrics, and progress. Represent the HR Department on committees and task forces improving HR policies. Coach and train staff on building collaborative teams. Lead efforts to update HR operations with electronic systems and digital tools. Program Administration and Policy Implementation Ensure compliance with federal law, Smithsonian policy, and SAO’s research mission. Develop internal procedures and guidance for equitable HR policy application. Maintain HR system accuracy and database integrity. Hiring, Classification, and Compensation Direct recruitment, selection, and onboarding of federal and trust positions. Oversee position classification and compensation analysis for pay equity. Provide oversight of promotions, transfers, and commendations. Partner with hiring managers on staffing strategies for scientific and technical roles. Workforce Services and Support Supervise HR staff in performance management and professional development. Deliver training, briefings, and communications on HR policies. Support onboarding and retention across all workforce categories. Manage SAO’s visa program and act as Responsible Officer for the J‑1 Visa Program. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Labor Relations Develop and monitor EEO practices and communicate objectives to staff. Advise on employee relations, disciplinary actions, and grievance procedures. Participate in reduction‑in‑force planning and transition support. Immigration and International Programs Manage visa processing for various categories including H‑1, J‑1, O‑1, and TN‑1. Serve as liaison with the Smithsonian’s Office of Global Affairs and government agencies. Advise managers and employees on visa eligibility and compliance. Ensure timely renewal of visas. Risk Management and HR Technology/Analytics Ensure compliance with workplace safety and employment regulations. Identify and mitigate workplace risks. Oversee HR recordkeeping and data security. Lead implementation of HR technology systems. Use workforce data and analytics to inform decisions on staffing and compensation. Other duties as assigned. Qualification Requirements Basic Requirements: Minimum of one year of specialized HR experience at or above grade 13, including skills in staffing, classification, employee relations, federal position classification, and immigration law. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Mastery of HR principles, concepts, and regulations across classification, staffing, and benefits. Expert knowledge of federal classification standards. Understanding of research operations and alignment of HR policies with research goals. Ability to translate legislative changes into actionable HR strategies. Skill coordinating complex HR activities across dispersed teams. Excellent written and verbal communication and conflict resolution skills. Continuously update knowledge of employment and immigration law. Proven ability to coach and train supervisors on collaborative teamwork. Expert in ensuring compliance with hiring laws and regulations. Education completed outside the United States must be deemed equivalent to U.S. higher education programs by a recognized credential evaluator. False statements in an application may result in rejection or termination after employment begins. EEO Statement The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is an equal opportunity employer. The Smithsonian Institution provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. Reasonable accommodation requests should be directed to View email address on click.appcast.io. Contact For more information, visit #J-18808-Ljbffr Smithsonian Institution