Senior Human Resources Business Partner

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.

At the Harvard John

A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), we work within and beyond the disciplines of engineering and foundational science to address the most pressing issues of our time. Through teaching and collaborative research, SEAS discovers, designs, and creates novel technologies and approaches to societal challenges – in service to the world, the nation, and our community. We collaborate across academic areas at SEAS and the larger university, and with colleagues in academia, industry, government and public service organizations beyond Harvard.

By joining SEAS, you will be part of an inclusive community of dedicated problem-solvers who hold themselves – and one another – to the highest academic and professional standards. To learn more about us, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The Harvard John

A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) seeks a strategic, collaborative, and solutions-oriented Senior Human Resources Business Partner to serve as a trusted advisor to leaders, faculty, and staff within a dynamic academic and research environment. This role offers an opportunity to influence organizational effectiveness, support a culture of innovation and inclusion, and partner with world-class faculty, researchers, and administrators in advancing the School’s mission.

As a key member of a collaborative Human Resources team, this position partners closely with leaders across the School to address complex workplace issues, develop people strategies, and implement Human Resources initiatives that align with organizational priorities and University values.

• Serve as a strategic Human Resources partner, providing consultation and guidance on employee relations, talent management, organizational development, compensation, performance management, workforce planning, and employee engagement.
• Advise and coach leaders, managers, faculty, and staff on complex workplace matters, balancing organizational needs, employee experience, and compliance considerations.
• Partner with leadership to identify organizational challenges and opportunities and develop proactive Human Resources strategies that support operational and strategic goals.
• Lead and support organizational change initiatives, including workforce transitions, communications planning, and change management efforts.
• Provide guidance and oversight related to employee leaves of absence and other employee support processes, ensuring compliance with applicable policies and regulations.
• Consult on sensitive employee matters, including issues involving Title IX resources, workplace accommodations, and other employee support and referral processes.
• Partner with managers and administrative leaders to assess and determine appropriate employee and independent contractor classifications in accordance with University policies and legal requirements.
• Support leaders and employees in unionized environments and provide guidance on the interpretation and administration of collective bargaining agreements and bargaining unit policies.
• Design, deliver, and evaluate Human Resources programs, training initiatives, and professional development opportunities that foster employee growth and organizational effectiveness.
• Analyze workforce data, trends, and metrics to inform decision‑making, identify opportunities for improvement, and support strategic planning efforts.
• Recommend and implement process improvements that enhance service delivery, operational efficiency, and the employee experience.
• Serve as a subject matter expert and project lead for Human Resources initiatives and special projects.
• Collaborate with University partners to deliver coordinated, high‑quality Human Resources services.
• Ensure compliance with…