Strategic HR Director for Public Libraries

Illinois; Aurora (IL); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

The Aurora Public Library District seeks a strategic and collaborative Human Resources Director to lead people initiatives, strengthen culture, and support employee success. As a member of the leadership team, you will guide labor relations, policy interpretation, and workforce planning in service to staff and the community.

You will oversee recruitment, onboarding, benefits, payroll, and HR systems, coach managers, handle investigations, and ensure lawful, equitable practices across the

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in human resources or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive HR leadership experience.
• Strong labor relations and collective bargaining experience.
• Experience with HRIS systems and payroll processing.
• Proven leadership and supervisory capabilities.
• Commitment to equity, access, and community engagement.
• Experience developing policies and workforce strategies.
• Experience leading workplace investigations and employee relations matters.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a member of the Executive Team, shaping library vision and workforce planning.
• Provide guidance to maintain a professional, inclusive environment.
• Oversee labor relations, bargaining negotiations, and contract interpretation/administration.
• Create initiatives to strengthen culture, engagement, and leadership capacity.
• Coach managers on performance management and workplace issues.
• Oversee investigations and ensure fair, compliant decisions.
• Ensure access to resources and opportunities for all staff.
• Ensure policies comply with laws, regulations, and labor agreements.
• Oversee recruitment, onboarding, benefits, leave management, payroll and HR systems.

Skills

Labor relations

Leadership

HRIS

Employee relations

Strategic planning

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR

Master's degree in HR

SPHR/SHRM-SCP/CLRP

Tools

Payroll software

HRIS

Job description

The Aurora Public Library District seeks a strategic and collaborative Human Resources Director to lead people initiatives, strengthen culture, and support employee success. As a member of the leadership team, you will guide labor relations, policy interpretation, and workforce planning in service to staff and the community.

You will oversee recruitment, onboarding, benefits, payroll, and HR systems, coach managers, handle investigations, and ensure lawful, equitable practices across the