Senior Human Resources Business Partner

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Why join the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences?

At the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), we work within and beyond the disciplines of engineering and foundational science to address the most pressing issues of our time. Through teaching and collaborative research, SEAS discovers, designs, and creates novel technologies and approaches to societal challenges – in service to the world, the nation, and our community. We collaborate across academic areas at SEAS and the larger university, and with colleagues in academia, industry, government and public service organizations beyond Harvard. By joining SEAS, you will be part of an inclusive community of dedicated problem-solvers who hold themselves – and one another – to the highest academic and professional standards. To learn more about us, please visit

Job Summary:

The Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) seeks a strategic, collaborative, and solutions-oriented Senior Human Resources Business Partner to serve as a trusted advisor to leaders, faculty, and staff within a dynamic academic and research environment. This role offers an opportunity to influence organizational effectiveness, support a culture of innovation and inclusion, and partner with world-class faculty, researchers, and administrators in advancing the School’s mission.

As a key member of a collaborative Human Resources team, this position partners closely with leaders across the School to address complex workplace issues, develop people strategies, and implement Human Resources initiatives that align with organizational priorities and University values.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Serve as a strategic Human Resources partner, providing consultation and guidance on employee relations, talent management, organizational development, compensation, performance management, workforce planning, and employee engagement.
• Advise and coach leaders, managers, faculty, and staff on complex workplace matters, balancing organizational needs, employee experience, and compliance considerations.
• Partner with leadership to identify organizational challenges and opportunities and develop proactive Human Resources strategies that support operational and strategic goals.
• Lead and support organizational change initiatives, including workforce transitions, communications planning, and change management efforts.
• Provide guidance and oversight related to employee leaves of absence and other employee support processes, ensuring compliance with applicable policies and regulations.
• Consult on sensitive employee matters, including issues involving Title IX resources, workplace accommodations, and other employee support and referral processes.
• Partner with managers and administrative leaders to assess and determine appropriate employee and independent contractor classifications in accordance with University policies and legal requirements.
• Support leaders and employees in unionized environments and provide guidance on the interpretation and administration of collective bargaining agreements and bargaining unit policies.
• Design, deliver, and evaluate Human Resources programs, training initiatives, and professional development opportunities that foster employee growth and organizational effectiveness.
• Analyze workforce data, trends, and metrics to inform decision-making, identify opportunities for improvement, and support strategic planning efforts.
• Recommend and implement process improvements that enhance service delivery, operational efficiency, and the employee experience.
• Serve as a subject matter expert and project lead for Human Resources initiatives and special projects.
• Collaborate with University partners to deliver coordinated, high-quality Human Resources services.
• Ensure compliance with University policies, collective bargaining agreements, and applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
• May provide recruitment services for hiring managers and departments in collaboration with talent acquisition partners.

Working Conditions:

Work is performed in an office environment.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required
• Minimum of 8 years’ relevant HR experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Master’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Advanced knowledge of employment law, Human Resources policies, practices, and organizational effectiveness principles.
• Demonstrated experience advising leaders and managing complex employee relations matters.
• Experience supporting academic, research, healthcare, or other highly complex matrixed organizations preferred.
• Experience supporting unionized environments and administering collective bargaining agreements preferred.
• Knowledge of leave administration, employee accommodations, and worker classification considerations strongly preferred.
• Experience utilizing HRIS platforms, workforce analytics, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Exceptional consulting, communication, facilitation, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage sensitive and confidential matters with sound judgment and discretion.

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 standard hours per week. 
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity and Education
• Other Information:
  • Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to be considered for this position.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 059. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.