Director, HR & Diversity - Hybrid DEAI Leader

Association of Zoos and Aquariums; Silver Spring (MD); Hybrid; USD 69,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental & Life Insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Paid time off

Parental leave

Job summary

Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) seeks a Director, Human Resources & Diversity to develop and oversee HR programs, policies, and DEAI initiatives.

Based in Silver Spring, MD, this role reports to the Executive Vice President and offers a hybrid schedule with at least two in-office days per week. The position leads recruitment, onboarding, training, benefits, and policy compliance across the organization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; major in business or HR-related field strongly preferred.
• 5+ years of HR experience required; experience in diversity-focused roles with DEAI initiatives preferred.
• 2+ years of leading projects, teams, or initiatives.
• SHRM or HRCI certifications a plus.
• Demonstrated leadership, collaboration, and ability to build and grow teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and oversee all HR programs, policies, and responsibilities.
• Serve as staff liaison to AZA Diversity and HR Committees.
• Lead recruitment, onboarding, and orientation for all positions.
• Oversee HR technology systems including HRIS, ATS, and performance management.
• Administer benefits programs and coordinate with providers.

Skills

DEAI principles

Leadership

Project management

Interpersonal communications

HR policy compliance

Attention to detail

Budgeting

Conflict resolution

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business or HR-related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

HRIS & ATS systems

Job description

Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) seeks a Director, Human Resources & Diversity to develop and oversee HR programs, policies, and DEAI initiatives.

Based in Silver Spring, MD, this role reports to the Executive Vice President and offers a hybrid schedule with at least two in-office days per week. The position leads recruitment, onboarding, training, benefits, and policy compliance across the organization.