, an award-winning full-service staffing firm, has been engaged to conduct a search for a Director of Human Resources for an exciting nonprofit organization in Salem, Oregon ! This is a hybrid position that works collaboratively with the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to the organization’s commitment to providing a safe, supportive environment for those in need of care and healing. Rooted in compassion and community, the organization focuses on creating space for recovery, trust-building, and meaningful connection. Through hands-on support, education, and public engagement, it works to inspire kindness, advocate for second chances, and promote a more empathetic world.

Position Summary:

The Director of Human Resources plays a key role in fostering a mission-aligned and sustainable workplace culture. This position supports senior leadership by building and professionalizing HR systems and infrastructure, and by developing and implementing people strategies that meet organizational needs while promoting employee engagement, well-being, and equity. As a trusted advisor and operational leader, the Director ensures compliance with labor laws, leads core HR functions, and supports staff in a high-impact, emotionally intensive environment.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Support & Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with the Senior Leadership Team to ensure HR initiatives align with organizational priorities and values. Contribute to the integration of key people practices: talent acquisition, learning and development, performance management, and employee engagement, into daily operations. Support Board-related HR matters when needed, particularly around compliance, compensation review, and culture. Collaborate closely with Operations and Finance to ensure alignment across departments.

People Management & Organizational Culture Promote a mission-driven and compassionate workplace through thoughtful HR practices. Foster staff engagement, morale, and retention by leading initiatives that support employee well-being, with a focus on the unique challenges of a physically demanding and emotionally intense work environment. Strengthen internal communication and culture-building efforts in partnership with team leaders.

Compliance, Policy & Risk Management Ensure compliance with all relevant labor laws (including FLSA, OSHA, and industry-related safety regulations). Maintain and update the employee handbook and HR policies in accordance with nonprofit standards and organizational needs. Oversee the confidentiality and integrity of personnel records.

Employee Relations Act as a neutral and trusted resource for staff concerns, fostering open dialogue and mutual respect. Design and implement a clear, values-aligned grievance and resolution process. Promote healthy communication and cross-departmental collaboration.

Talent Acquisition, Development & Workforce Planning Lead recruitment and onboarding processes to attract and retain top talent with industry-relevant, nonprofit, or mission-aligned experience. Ensure staffing levels meet the operational needs of both programmatic and administrative teams. Coordinate employee development programs, including training, career pathways, and mentorship. Manage the performance review process and support a culture of continuous feedback and learning.

Compensation & Benefits Support the development and administration of competitive compensation and benefits programs in partnership with Finance and senior leadership. Conduct periodic market research to ensure alignment with similar nonprofits and local employers. Lead the annual compensation review process with the CEO and Finance, preparing materials for Board approval in accordance with IRS nonprofit regulations. Administer benefits including health insurance, leave policies, and wellness initiatives.

HR Operations & Systems Maintain accurate employee records and oversee HRIS functionality appropriate for a growing nonprofit. Coordinate payroll and timekeeping processes in collaboration with Finance. Monitor and report on HR metrics to ensure transparency and guide leadership decisions.

Unique Industry Considerations Recognize and respond to the emotional demands of the work by developing strategies to prevent burnout and support overall staff well-being. Ensure rigorous safety training is in place for physically demanding or high-risk roles. Center HR practices around the organization’s deeply mission-driven staff, ensuring consistency in communication, values, and support.

Qualifications: At least 10 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, including a minimum of 5 years in a Director-level role or above. Deep knowledge of employment law, HR compliance, and best practices across all core human resources functions. Demonstrated success overseeing HR functions for organizations with 50+ employees, ideally within dynamic and evolving environments. Proven ability to lead and scale HR operations during periods of growth, transition, or organizational change. Demonstrated experience establishing HR policies, procedures, and systems in growing or newly structured organizations. Comfortable operating in a build-as-you-go environment, with the ability to introduce structure, clarity, and strategic direction from the ground up. Skilled in developing and executing HR strategies that promote long-term organizational sustainability, employee engagement, and operational excellence. Strong change management expertise with a track record of elevating systems, professionalizing operations, and strengthening performance across teams. Prior experience in a startup, high-growth, or rapidly evolving nonprofit environment. Experience in building and developing high-performing teams while cultivating a culture of accountability and collaboration. Intimate understanding of emotionally intensive or mission-driven work environments, with the emotional intelligence to support staff in high-stakes settings. Exceptional communication skills, written, verbal, and interpersonal, with the ability to foster trust and clarity across all levels of an organization. Proficient in HRIS systems, payroll, benefits administration, and data analysis, with fluency in Microsoft Office Suite. Bachelor's degree required; equivalent relevant experience will also be considered. PHR or SHRM-CP certification preferred.