Assistant Director of Human Resources

University of California, Riverside; California (MO); On-site; USD 93,200 - 174,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous employee benefits package

Job summary

The University of California, Riverside is seeking an Assistant Director of Human Resources to serve as a strategic partner within the Chancellor’s organization. This position requires expertise in employee relations, workforce planning, and organizational effectiveness.

Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's degree, significant HR experience, and strong analytical and communication skills. The position offers a salary of $120,000 annually and a generous benefits package.

Qualifications

• 6 - 10 years of related experience.
• Experience managing employee and/or labor relations issues.
• Previous supervisory experience.
• Experience providing strategic human resources leadership.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a strategic human resources partner.
• Provide expert consultation and guidance.
• Support development and evaluation of HR strategies.
• Respond to inquiries and concerns from a diverse workforce.

Skills

Advanced knowledge of human resources concepts

Strong analytical skills

Advanced written and verbal communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in related area

Advanced degree in related field

Tools

Human Resources Management Systems (HRMS)

Job description

Position Information

Under the direction of the Director of Human Resources & Executive Searches, the Assistant Director of Human Resources serves as a strategic human resources partner and trusted advisor to units within the Chancellor’s organization and the Provost & Executive Vice Chancellor’s organization. The incumbent provides expert consultation and guidance across a broad spectrum of human resources functions, including employee and labor relations, workforce planning, organizational effectiveness, talent acquisition, compensation, performance management, and policy interpretation and administration. In collaboration with the Director of Human Resources & Executive Searches, the Assistant Director supports the development, implementation, and evaluation of human resources strategies, programs, and initiatives that align with institutional priorities, advance organizational effectiveness, and foster a high‑performing workforce. This confidential position plays a key role in employee and labor relations activities, including participation in labor‑management meetings, grievance proceedings, and other labor relations matters. The incumbent gathers and analyzes information, provides guidance on disciplinary actions and performance‑related issues, and advises management on a variety of human resources concerns.

Serving as a primary point of contact for a diverse workforce, including union‑represented employees, the Assistant Director responds to inquiries, requests, and concerns while ensuring timely and appropriate resolution or escalation as needed. The Assistant Director also provides direct supervision and leadership to one Senior Human Resources Generalist, overseeing daily operations, workload management, and professional development to ensure the effective delivery of human resources services. The incumbent may also provide strategic and operational human resources support across other organizations within the broader portfolio, including Health, Well‑being & Safety, to ensure alignment with institutional priorities and evolving organizational needs.

Full salary range for the Assistant Director of Human Resources is $93,200.00 - $174,200.00 annually. However, the expected pay scale for this position is up to $120,000.00 annually. We base salary offers on a variety of considerations, such as education, licensure and certifications, experience, and other business and organizational needs. Applicants must have current work authorization when accepting a UCR staff position. Currently, we are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa for staff. As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

Requirements

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training.


• Advanced degree in related field.

Experience Requirements

• 6 - 10 years of related experience.


• Experience managing employee and/or labor relations issues.


• Previous supervisory experience.


• Experience providing strategic human resources leadership within a higher education environment.


• Experience with the University of California Riverside policies, procedures, and processes.

Minimum Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to handle extremely difficult or volatile situations / individuals effectively.


• Advanced knowledge of human resources concepts, policies and procedures including employment practices, labor relations, salary administration, training and other areas of human resources as well as organizational initiatives relating to and/or affecting human resources.


• Strong analytical, active listening, and critical thinking skills.


• Advanced interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills to present complex information.


• Possesses advanced analytical skills to conduct analysis and develop recommendations, demonstrating organization and problem‑solving skills. Has working knowledge of other areas of HR.


• In‑depth knowledge of a human resources management system (HRMS), and/or other related business software programs and systems.


• Demonstrated advanced knowledge of organizational policies and procedures; advanced knowledge of functional area and understands how work affects other areas in Human Resources and the organization.


• Exceptional political acumen with the ability to anticipate organizational impacts, manage sensitive situations, and foster productive stakeholder relationships.

Preferred Qualifications

No additional preferred qualifications listed.

EEO Statement

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under state or federal law. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti‑discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Employee Benefits Overview

For information about our generous employee benefits package, see Employee Benefits Overview.