Associate Director of Human Resources

Murray State University; Murray (KY); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Murray State University in Murray, KY seeks an Associate Director of Human Resources to oversee employment, performance management, and compliance across the Office of Human Resources. This regular full-time role directs recruitment, onboarding, and compensation programs, guiding supervisors and staff to maintain fair, legal, and efficient employment practices.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in HR or business, at least five years in HR with supervisory experience, proficiency in MS

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Management, or related field.
• 5+ years in HR with personnel supervision.
• Proficiency in MS Office and strong written/verbal communication.
• Experience with HR policies, compliance, and employment law.

Responsibilities

• Oversees the employment process, including recruiting, hiring, onboarding and retention.
• Oversees performance evaluation systems for exempt and non-exempt staff.
• Oversees Form I-9 compliance for employees.
• Advises supervisors and employees on internal and external employment matters.
• Manages worker's compensation, unemployment, and return-to-work programs.
• Develops and implements campus-wide training programs.
• Interprets and applies federal and state employment laws.
• Supervises Office of Human Resources in Director's absence.

Skills

MS Office

Oral & Written Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree or higher in HR/Management or related field

Tools

HRIS

Job description

Posting Number:

20270014EX

Job Title:

Associate Director of Human Resources

Number of Vacancies:

1

About Murray State:

Located in the West Kentucky region, Murray State University is a public, comprehensive University which offers a low cost of living, low property taxes, and a four-season climate. Murray has a friendly, small-town atmosphere with locally-owned specialty shops and restaurants, an acclaimed community theater, art guild and award-winning public schools. The area is home to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes, a 170,000-acre National Recreation Area, which offers a wide-range of activities and amenities for residents and visitors alike. Located in close proximity to major cities and nearby access to Interstate 24, Murray is just a few hours from Nashville, St. Louis, Louisville and Memphis. Learn more about Careers at Murray State University.

About Murray State Benefits:

Faculty and staff of Murray State University have access to a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement, tuition waivers, generous paid holidays, vacation, sick, and paid parental leave, as well as many other benefit offerings. Please refer to the Murray State Benefits page for more information.

Equal Opportunity Employment:

Equal Opportunity Employer/AA. Murray State University does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender, identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, disability or political or social viewpoint. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

Type of Employment:

Regular Full-Time

Work Location:

Murray, KY

Employment Term:

12 Months

Position Type:

Staff - Exempt (Monthly)

Department:

Human Resources

Summary of Job Duties and Responsibilities:

The Associate Director of Human Resources has administrative and supervisory responsibility for the employment function within the Office of Human Resources. This position guides employees and supervisors in addressing job performance and personal conduct that may result in disciplinary actions, and endeavors to improve work performance through workplace learning programs.

• Oversees the employment process including, recruiting, hiring, onboarding and retention.
• Provides oversight for the performance evaluation system for exempt and non-exempt staff.
• Provides oversight of the completion, compliance, retention and auditing of the Form I-9 for all regular and temporary employees.
• Provides oversight of the University’s Independent Contractor and Employee Determination Process
• Provides oversight of the University’s Employment of Minors and Volunteer Process
• Manages the University’s Employee Assistance Program and acts as primary contact for all related matters.
• Provides oversight for the University’s compensation system, internal and external compensation analysis
• Provides oversight to the university’s wage and salary plan to ensure compliance with all applicable federal and state laws.
• Provides risk management to the University in employee relations matters.
• Advises supervisors and employees in situations involving conflict, poor work performance, or other issues requiring corrective action.
• Manages and carries out grievance and termination procedures, including involuntary terminations, reduction-in-force and contract non-renewals.
• Manages unemployment insurance claims and Murray State’s participation in Kentucky’s unemployment insurance program.
• Responsible for absence management and employee leaves.
• Manages Murray States’ workers compensation program, including OSHA reporting and the university’s participation in Kentucky’s Return-to-Work program.
• Develops and implements campus-wide training programs.
• Interprets and applies federal and state employment laws.
• Interprets and carries out policies in Murray State’s Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual.
• Advises the Director of Human Resources on all internal and external employment matters
• In the absence of the Director of Human Resources, the Associate Director of Human Resources is responsible for supervising and directing activities in the Office of Human Resources.

Minimum Education Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Human Resources, Management, or other business-related field required.

Minimum Experience and Skill Requirements:

• 5 years demonstrated experience as a Human Resources professional and personnel supervision.
• Proven track record of initiative, integrity, and ability to manage confidential information.
• Must be proficient in MS Office Suite.
• Demonstrated skills in oral and written communications as well as good interpersonal and organizational skills.

Preferred Education and/or Experience Qualifications:

• SHRM’s PHR certification and experience in higher education Human Resources administration preferred.
• Experience in an institution of higher education
• Experience in human resources information systems.

Staff Grade:

118

Posting Date:

09/16/2026

Closing Date:

10/07/2026

Open Until Filled:

No