Harvard University

Assistant Director/HR Partner

Q: What qualifications are required for the Assistant Director/HR Partner position?

You need a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience and at least 7 years of relevant HR experience . The role also requires union environment experience and employee relations expertise. Preferred qualifications include SHRM certification , an advanced degree, knowledge of employment law, HRIS applications, and Microsoft Office. Explore more Assistant Director career path or browse HR jobs in higher education .

Q: Is experience in a union environment mandatory for this HR partner role?

Yes, experience working in a union environment is required . The Assistant Director/HR Partner advises managers, staff, and bargaining unit representatives and helps administer bargaining unit policies and procedures . If you have complex employee relations experience, you will be well positioned. See related human resources jobs .

Q: Does Harvard provide visa sponsorship for this position?

No. Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position, now or in the future. Candidates must already meet work authorization requirements. This is common for staff roles at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health . You can learn more about Ivy League schools hiring practices.

Q: What are the main responsibilities of the Assistant Director/HR Partner?

The role serves as a trusted HR advisor and thought partner to managers, faculty, and staff. Responsibilities include employee and labor relations , performance management, retention, staffing, compensation collaboration, talent acquisition, change management, and HR transactions. It is similar to an HR business partner position. Read more about University HR Business Partner jobs and browse HR openings .

Q: What is the work schedule and location format?

The standard schedule is 35 hours per week . The position is hybrid eligible , meaning some duties can be performed at a non-Harvard location, but employees must work in a Harvard registered state when not on campus. A 90-day orientation and review period applies, and pre-employment screening includes identity, education, and criminal checks. View HR jobs in higher education .

Q: What salary grade and benefits are associated with this Harvard HR role?

The position is classified as salary grade 058 ; the specific salary range is available on Harvard’s salary page but is not listed in the posting. Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage from day one , retirement plans, paid time off, parental leave, wellbeing resources, and tuition assistance. For general salary context, see university salaries .

Closes: Nov 2, 2026

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Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard’s world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health?

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing public health through cutting-edge research, education, and global collaboration. Our school is a special place to work because of its vibrant, mission-driven community, interdisciplinary approach, and commitment to addressing some of the most pressing health challenges worldwide. We foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment where innovation, continuous learning, and work-life balance are valued.

Learn more about the School’s mission, objectives, and core values, our Principles of Citizenship, and about the Dean’s AAA vision about our school’s ongoing strategic initiatives.

Job Description

Job Summary:

The overarching mission of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (SPH) is to advance the public’s health through learning, discovery, and communication. To pursue this mission, the School produces knowledge through research, reproduces knowledge through higher education, and translates knowledge into evidence that can be communicated to the public, policymakers, and practitioners to advance the health of populations.

The Office of Human Resources (HR) at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (SPH) is a proactive, strategic partner to the SPH community. We support the School’s mission and strategic priorities by attracting, developing, rewarding, and retaining exceptional talent in an inclusive, high-performing environment.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Reporting to the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), the Assistant Director of Human Resources / HR Partner serves as a trusted advisor and thought partner to managers, faculty, staff, and bargaining unit representatives. This role addresses a broad range of workplace and organizational issues, delivering strategic, high-impact HR solutions. The Assistant Director / HR Partner will facilitate problem-solving; maintain the highest levels of discretion, confidentiality, and customer service; and provide integrated HR guidance that reflects a strong understanding of the School’s operations, culture, and evolving needs.

Responsibilities include:

Provide expert guidance, consulting, and problem resolution on a full spectrum of human resources issues.
Consult with and coach managers and employees on employee and labor relations, performance management, retention, staffing, and career development.
Interpret, communicate, and advise on HR policies, practices, and processes; contribute to their continuous improvement and development.
Partner with managers to identify organizational issues and recommend enhancements to organizational design, development, and training needs; collaborate with the Center for Workforce Development and the Harvard Longwood Campus (HLC) Employee Development and Wellness teams as appropriate.
Collaborate with the HLC Compensation team on all compensation-related matters, including job reviews, salary and bonus recommendations, and equity reviews.
Support and lead aspects of change management efforts to foster a productive, engaged, and inclusive culture.
In partnership with the Talent Acquisition team, ensure the successful recruitment of top talent
Proactively identify opportunities to streamline processes, improve HR service delivery, and drive HR initiatives with a focus on effectiveness and efficiency and to leveraging across the HLC.
Facilitate, review, and approve HR and payroll transactions, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
Serve as a subject matter expert and/or project lead on designated HR projects and initiatives.
Ensure compliance with University Human Resources policies, procedures, and requirements, as well as applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations.
Perform other related duties as required

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

Please ensure the following are clearly depicted in the resume to be considered as meeting the basic qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required
Minimum of 7 years’ relevant HR experience
Experience working in a union environment is required
Experience with employee relations issues

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

Bachelors (or advanced) degree. SHRM Certification
Advanced knowledge of employment law, HR policies and practices and some financial/business acumen
Demonstrated experience with the administration of bargaining unit polices and procedures
Harvard experience or working in academia a plus
Experience with complex employee issues
Experience with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
Experience with HRIS applications and analytics
Experience with managing projects through completion and meeting deadlines
Strong written and verbal communication skills, negotiation skills
A track record of strong business judgment, connecting human resources with organization goals/mission
Strong problem solving & analytical skills
Service-oriented, collaborative, and impact-driven
Demonstrated commitment to building and sustaining relationships, including effectively communicating with staff at all levels, working as a team, and working with confidential data

Additional Information

Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education, Criminal

Join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to support our mission of health research and education, and to be a part of the oldest institution of higher learning in the country!

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health does not provide visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for staff positions.

Harvard University requires pre-employment reference checks and background screenings.

This position has a 90 day orientation and review period.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 058. Please visit Harvard’s Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

Generous paid time off including parental leave
Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
Retirement plans with university contributions
Wellbeing and mental health resources
Support for families and caregivers
Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy. Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Job details

Title: Assistant Director/HR Partner
Employer: Harvard University
Location: Boston
Published: Sep 3, 2026
Closes:: Nov 2, 2026
Job type: Full time, Human Resources
Field: General HR

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications are required for the Assistant Director/HR Partner position?

You need a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience and at least 7 years of relevant HR experience. The role also requires union environment experience and employee relations expertise. Preferred qualifications include SHRM certification, an advanced degree, knowledge of employment law, HRIS applications, and Microsoft Office. Explore more Assistant Director career path or browse HR jobs in higher education.

⚖️Is experience in a union environment mandatory for this HR partner role?

Yes, experience working in a union environment is required. The Assistant Director/HR Partner advises managers, staff, and bargaining unit representatives and helps administer bargaining unit policies and procedures. If you have complex employee relations experience, you will be well positioned. See related human resources jobs.

🛂Does Harvard provide visa sponsorship for this position?

No. Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position, now or in the future. Candidates must already meet work authorization requirements. This is common for staff roles at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. You can learn more about Ivy League schools hiring practices.

💼What are the main responsibilities of the Assistant Director/HR Partner?

The role serves as a trusted HR advisor and thought partner to managers, faculty, and staff. Responsibilities include employee and labor relations, performance management, retention, staffing, compensation collaboration, talent acquisition, change management, and HR transactions. It is similar to an HR business partner position. Read more about University HR Business Partner jobs and browse HR openings.

📍What is the work schedule and location format?

The standard schedule is 35 hours per week. The position is hybrid eligible, meaning some duties can be performed at a non-Harvard location, but employees must work in a Harvard registered state when not on campus. A 90-day orientation and review period applies, and pre-employment screening includes identity, education, and criminal checks. View HR jobs in higher education.

💰What salary grade and benefits are associated with this Harvard HR role?

The position is classified as salary grade 058; the specific salary range is available on Harvard’s salary page but is not listed in the posting. Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage from day one, retirement plans, paid time off, parental leave, wellbeing resources, and tuition assistance. For general salary context, see university salaries.

About the employer

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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