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).
