Human Resources Director

At TalentCount we believe Human Resources is the engine that influences the workforce towards success and a positive company culture creates the rhythm to any business. We take pride in hiring the most authenticated, high-EQ human resources and leadership professionals to influence company culture, objectives, and growth.

Are you a hands-on HR leader who thrives in fast-paced, evolving environments? Do you bring strong expertise in employee relations, investigations, and compliance, while confidently leading teams through challenging situations ? If so, our client wants you on their team.

As an HR Director, you’ll play a critical role in stabilizing and strengthening the HR function during a time of transition. You’ll lead a small but capable team, oversee complex employee relations matters, and ensure the organization remains compliant and well-structured. This is a highly visible role where you’ll partner closely with leadership while rolling up your sleeves to get into the details when needed.

*This is a direct hire and hybrid role in Santa Ana, CA .

Core Duties:

• Lead and support a team of 3 HR professionals and collaborate with 2 talent acquisition team members

• Manage employee relations matters, including conducting investigations and resolving complex workplace issues

• Organize and oversee HR documentation in support of legal matters, including lawsuits and subpoenas

• Ensure compliance with employment laws by staying current on legal updates and proactively updating policies and practices

• Audit and update job descriptions, employment contracts, and HR processes

• Establish and finalize a comprehensive employee handbook within the first 30–60 days

• Oversee performance management processes, ensuring timely completion of employee evaluations across the organization

• Partner with leadership, Talent Acquisition, and Learning & Development to support business objectives

• Build, improve, and scale HR systems and processes to support organizational growth

What We’re Looking For:

• 5–8+ years of progressive HR experience, including experience leading or managing teams

• Strong expertise in employee relations, workplace investigations, and HR compliance

• Experience handling legal matters such as lawsuits, subpoenas, audits, and documentation requests

• In-depth knowledge of employment laws and the ability to apply them in a practical, business-focused way

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail, especially when managing sensitive and time-critical information

• Hands-on, adaptable leader who can operate both strategically and tactically

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and partner with stakeholders across the organization

• Experience within K-12 education environments in California

• Familiarity with credential tracking systems (e.g., CALSAAS)

• Experience with student information systems such as PowerSchool

• Background in EdTech or school networks

• Experience building onboarding programs and L&D initiatives

• Former collegiate athlete (highly preferred)

Salary range: $135,000 to $150,000 per year (relocation bonus up to $15,000 and signing bonuses available).