Human Resources Manager

Human Resources ManagerThe Land Trust of Santa Cruz County (Land Trust) is a nonprofit organization at the forefront of environmental conservation in Santa Cruz County by protecting, caring for, and stewarding more than 19,000 acres of important habitat and farmland in the last 48 years. The Land Trust is seeking a motivated and collaborative person, experienced in human resources, to serve as the organization's first Human Resources (HR) Manager. The Land Trust employs nearly 40 full-time and part-time employees whose talent and experience are the source of the organization's success.The HR Manager will provide compliance expertise, oversee recruitment and hiring, administer employee benefits, coordinate performance management, manage HR systems, and support effective employee relations. Working closely with the Senior Operations Manager and Leadership Team, the HR Manager will implement HR programs, advise supervisors, oversee workplace safety and internal training programs, and contribute to broader Admin + Operations initiatives.This position is expected to work 32–40 hours per week, generally during regular business hours of 8 am–5 pm, Monday through Friday. The specific weekly schedule will be established with the selected candidate based on organizational needs and mutual agreement. Occasional evening and weekend work is required. This position will work in the downtown Santa Cruz, CA office.The Land Trust offers excellent benefits and a supportive work environment, including:High-quality health, dental, and vision insurance, with 100% of employee premiums covered by the Land Trust403(b) retirement plan with employer matchGenerous paid time off and holidaysA green commute stipend to encourage sustainable transportationOngoing professional development supportAn annual wellness benefitInclusive and fun staff eventsA dog-friendly officeAnd moreResponsibilitiesHuman Resources Administration, Safety & ComplianceRecruitment, Hiring & OnboardingCompensation & BenefitsEmployee Relations & Performance SupportTraining, Procedures & Professional DevelopmentHR Systems & Data Management (Rippling)Admin + Operations SupportRequired Knowledge, Skills, Ability & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.HR certification (PHR, SHRM-CP, or equivalent) or the ability to obtain certification within a year of employment with Land Trust support.3-5 years of experience, including experience independently managing an organization's HR function, preferably in a nonprofit or mission-driven organization.Working knowledge of California and federal employment laws and HR best practices, including employee relations, wage and hour, leave and accommodations, benefits, and workplace compliance.Experience advising employees and supervisors on sensitive employee relations and performance management matters.Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to build trust, exercise discretion, and communicate sensitive or complex information clearly and respectfully.Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities independently.Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Ability & ExperienceExperience managing HR systems (HRIS), such as Rippling or similar platforms.Experience with project management systems, such as Asana or similar platforms.Experience supporting equity-centered HR practices and inclusive workplace culture.Familiarity with the greater Santa Cruz County region and demonstrated interest in the Land Trust's conservation work.Experience working in an organization with distributed or field-based staff.