What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Human Resources position at Massachusetts Maritime Academy?
Start Date
November 2026
Division
Human Resources
Union Affiliation
Non-Unit Professional
Position Number
FY27-08
Application Deadline
Open until filled
Supervision Received
Reports to the Dean of Human Resources
Supervision Exercised
Subordinate personnel in areas of responsibility
General Responsibilities
The Human Resources Director oversees the day-to-day operations of the Academy’s Human Resources department. This position serves as a primary resource for employees and departments, supports complex employee relations matters, coordinates HR services, and provides guidance and leadership to ensure consistent, effective, and compliant HR practices.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Oversees the day-to-day operations of the Human Resources department, ensuring effective coordination and delivery of HR programs, processes, services, and administrative functions.
- Serves as a primary point of contact for employee questions and concerns, providing guidance, support, and direction, and escalating matters to the Dean of Human Resources, as appropriate.
- Serves as a co-investigator in employee investigations, including Title IX, Equal Opportunity (EO), and other complex employee relations matters.
- Oversees the recruitment and hiring process, including job postings, searches, reference checks, offer letters, pre-employment screenings, and other required employment documentation.
- Manages employee onboarding and orientation, serving as a point of contact for new hires and ensuring a consistent and welcoming introduction to the Academy.
- Manages employee offboarding processes and conducts exit interviews to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
- Manages employee leaves of absence, including FMLA, PFML, accommodations, and other applicable approved leave programs.
- Manages sick leave banks in accordance with applicable collective bargaining agreements and in collaboration with Payroll and Benefits.
- Serves as the primary Human Resources contact for Workers’ Compensation, ensuring timely reporting, appropriate documentation, and coordination with applicable parties.
- Coordinates with Payroll and Benefits regarding employee benefits, leave administration, personnel actions, and employment status changes.
- Manages the performance evaluation process, including communication of requirements, monitoring deadlines, ensuring timely completion, and maintaining appropriate records.
- Oversees Human Resources information systems, personnel data, and HR records to support effective administration, reporting, and compliance.
- Serves as the HR point of contact for Applicant Tracking System (ATS) implementation and related system inquiries and initiatives.
- Manages Human Resources audits and reporting, including but not limited to IPEDS, EEO, Clery, and other applicable reporting requirements, ensuring timely and accurate submission.
- Collaborates with the Training Ship Administrative Assistant to ensure mariner credentials, required training, and drug testing are current and compliant prior to each ship activation.
- Oversees the Academy’s contract system for part-time employees and student workers, ensuring timely completion and coordinating with departments on contract preparation and processing.
- Monitors federal, state, and local employment laws and applicable collective bargaining agreements to maintain current knowledge and support compliance with applicable requirements.
- Oversees Human Resources communications and ensures that employees receive timely and accurate information regarding HR programs, policies, procedures, benefits, training, and other HR-related matters.
- Maintains the confidentiality and security of employee and personnel information in accordance with Academy policy and applicable federal and state requirements.
- Participates in and supports HR initiatives and projects as assigned.
- Performs other related duties, as assigned.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Management, or a related field.
- 5-7 years of progressively responsible human resources experience, with demonstrated experience managing a broad range of HR functions.
- Experience administering leave programs and benefits including: FMLA, PFML, Worker’s Compensation, accommodations, and other federal and state leave programs and benefits.
- Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and independently follow through on assignments.
- Ability to work collaboratively while exercising appropriate judgment and maintaining confidentiality and neutrality.
- Ability to adjust to changing situations, be flexible to meet changing priorities, and work with ambiguity.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Public-sector human resources experience, particularly in PreK - 12 or higher education.
- Familiarity with unionized environments and ability to interpret collective bargaining agreements.
- Experience effectively coaching, delivering feedback, motivating, and developing staff.
- Experience with employee and labor relations, including investigations, workplace concerns, disciplinary matters, and conflict resolution.
Salary
$100,000- $110,000 annually based on education, qualifications, and experience.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume, an MMA application, and the contact information of five (5) professional references. These forms are located on the employment opportunities link under Human Resources on the MMA website https://www.maritime.edu/human-resources/employment-opportunities/full-time.
Applications may be attached and sent electronically to hr@maritime.edu. Alternatively, you may send your application materials by USPS to: Human Resources, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532.
Finalist must complete a pre-employment drug screening and background check.
Salary : $100,000 - $110,000