Human Resources Director

American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS)

Human Resources Director leading HR strategy and operations at ACLS, a nonprofit federation of scholarly organizations. Serving as trusted advisor to senior leadership and managing all HR functions.

Posted 6/14/2026full-timeNew York City • New York • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $100,000 - $130,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop and implement HR strategies that align with ACLS’s mission and strategic priorities
Advise senior management on HR matters, including workforce planning and employee engagement strategies
Oversee benefits administration, including annual open enrollment, leave management, retirement plans, commuter benefits
Act as primary contact for benefits related issues; coordinate with carriers or benefits broker as needed
Lead full cycle recruitment process: Collaborate with hiring managers to craft and review job descriptions; source candidates through multiple channels; screening, interviewing, reference and background checks; and ensure an excellent candidate experience through timely and professional communication
Manage Applicant Tracking System (ATS), ensuring accurate and up to date applicant data and pipelines
Own and manage HR information system (HRIS), including data integrity, reporting, and system enhancements
Coordinate with Finance and department leads to set up contracts and payment forms for consultants
Coordinate with Finance regarding payroll reconciliations and reporting
Work with Office Manager to coordinate office operations including supplies, equipment, office arrangements, building security and access
Establish and manage the HR budget
Act as a trusted advisor for staff, helping to create a supportive environment and building a culture of belonging
Handle employee coaching, conflict resolution, and performance-related matters. Coordinate professional development opportunities
Work with senior leadership and managers to support employee wellness and engagement initiatives
Design and manage an ACLS onboarding process that effectively orients new employees
Lead annual performance review process and partner with managers and senior leadership on performance-based compensation decisions
Partner with events team to organize employee engagement activities
Ensure organizational compliance with all local, state and federal employment requirements, including annual trainings
Maintain compliant records and documentation and support audits as needed
Maintain and continuously improve HR policies and procedures for a hybrid and remote workforce distributed across several states

Requirements

What you’ll need

7+ years of progressive HR generalist experience across core HR disciplines, including employee relations, benefits, compliance, performance management, and talent management
Nonprofit or academic institution experience strongly preferred
SHRM or other HR certification and/or a relevant degree a plus
Strong work ethic coupled with enthusiastic and passionate approach to one’s work
High degree of professionalism and integrity; the ability to manage difficult situations with tact and diplomacy
Ability to handle sensitive employee matters with sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism
Strong communication and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively

Benefits

Comp & perks

medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death and disability insurance
generous time off benefits
retirement savings plan, including employer contributions
professional development support

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

HR strategiesbenefits administrationfull cycle recruitmentApplicant Tracking SystemHR information systememployee coachingperformance managementcomplianceonboarding processbudget management

Soft Skills

communicationorganizational skillsprofessionalismintegritytactdiplomacysound judgmentdiscretionenthusiasmpassion

Certifications

SHRM certificationHR certificationrelevant degree