Director of Human Resources Job Chicago Illinois USA,HR/Recruitment

Director Of Human Resources

At Illinois College of Optometry, we see things differently! For over 150 years, we've demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence in education and patient care. Our faculty and staff are second to none! Join us and be part of a mission-driven environment that values your contributions and offers real work-life balance including a 35-hour work week with flexible start times, generous PTO, and a 12% employer retirement contribution with no match required (full benefits below).

We are looking for a hands-on HR Director who can provide strong day-to-day HR support and improve processes. Success requires a collaborative leader with sound judgment, integrity, and a commitment to fairness and continuous improvement who will foster a campus culture of respect, accountability, and inclusion that supports ICO's mission and Strategic Plan.

Essential Job Functions:

Administer HR programs, policies, and employee records, delivering accurate, timely, customer-focused service
Oversee the HRIS platform, leveraging data and tools to support process efficiency and reporting accuracy
Serve as a resource employees can turn to with questions or concerns, and handle grievances, investigations, and disciplinary matters with sound judgment and discretion
Advise leadership on employment law compliance and workforce risk
Manage full-cycle recruitment, onboarding, and offboarding for faculty, staff, and residents
Administer the annual performance evaluation process, and coach managers on applying it effectively with their teams
Develop and deliver management training programs that strengthen leadership effectiveness across the institution
Plan engagement and recognition initiatives that build morale and connection across campus
Partner with the Director of Payroll and Benefits to administer FMLA, ADA, and other protected leave programs
Support institutional audits, accreditation, and regulatory reporting

What You Bring:

Bachelor's degree in HR, Organizational Development, or related field (Master's preferred; SHRM certification a plus)
7–10+ years of progressive HR experience, including managing staff
Hands-on experience across core HR functions: recruitment, employee relations, discipline, performance management, and protected leave programs
Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices
Experience with HRIS systems, particularly ADP Workforce Now
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; adaptable and able to manage multiple priorities
Approachable and collaborative, with sound discretion handling sensitive and confidential information
Preferred: higher education/healthcare experience, 501(c)(3) nonprofit experience

We've diligently built a comprehensive, competitive benefits program that reflects our dedication to our employees:

Comprehensive, affordable medical, dental, prescription, and vision insurance, for every full-time employee (coverage starts the first day of the month following your hire date)
12% employer 403(b) contribution with no match required, after one year of service
23 days of paid vacation per fiscal year, growing to 28 days after 5 years of service (graduated schedule your first year)
10 additional paid sick days, which carry over (graduated schedule your first year; limits apply)
12 paid company holidays per year
Standard 35-hour work week with flexible start times, plus the option to work from home one day a week after first 90 days
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) authorized employer
Tuition Reimbursement (up to IRS guidelines)
On-site gym, fitness, and exercise facility with an on-site fitness professional
On-site secured parking available for a fee
On-Campus Flu Vaccinations
Discounted lunch program on IIT campus

Illinois College of Optometry and the Illinois Eye Institute are at-will employers. Employment may be terminated by either the employee or the College at any time, with or without notice. The College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law.

Faculty termination matters are governed by the Faculty Handbook.