Job Description

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

The Divisional Human Resources Director (DHRD) is a key member of the command management team, responsible for providing strategic HR leadership and expert consultation to officers and line managers. This role oversees recruitment and selection, compensation and benefits, employee relations, and litigation claims. The DHRD ensures that all people-related initiatives support the command’s goals and operational effectiveness.

Salary Range

$175,000 - $200,000/yr.

Essential Functions

• Ensure employment-related compliance across the Command in accordance with The Salvation Army’s policies and applicable state and federal labor laws.
• Collaborate with field HR representatives and management to coordinate daily HR functions, including benefits, payroll, and risk management, while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the Division and Territorial Human Resources (THR); travel within the Southern California region as required.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of The Salvation Army policies and relevant employment laws and regulations (e.g., U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA, ADA, Department of Fair Employment and Housing, OFCCP).
• Monitor and support Corps/units to ensure compliance with internal policies and external labor regulations.
• Provide timely and professional guidance to Corps/units on HR, personnel, benefits, payroll, and risk management matters.
• Keep the Divisional Secretary for Business informed of HR activities, trends, and emerging issues across the Command.
• Supervise HR department staff to ensure timely and professional completion of reports, projects, and initiatives.
• Develop and maintain efficient HR systems and processes to support daily operations and long-term strategic goals.
• Deliver training to officers and line managers on HR-related topics through webinars, conference calls, and in-person sessions.
• Support conflict resolution efforts and provide guidance on employee relations matters.
• Conduct HR audits at corps/units to assess compliance and identify areas for improvement.
• Manage the performance evaluation process across the Command, ensuring consistency and alignment with organizational standards.
• Prepare HR submissions for the weekly Command Finance Council (CFC) and maintain updated employee records.
• Draft and revise divisional personnel policies for review by the Divisional Secretary for Business and/or the CFC.
• Review and analyze reports related to personnel, benefits, payroll, and risk management.
• Maintain and update the HR folder on the shared drive with current and accessible materials.
• Oversee UKG payroll system accuracy and ensure employee data integrity.
• Manage the workers’ compensation program, including the Injury Illness Prevention Program (IIPP).
• Lead the Employee Relations and Employee Benefits programs.
• Ensure personnel files are organized and compliant with internal and external audit standards.
• Safeguard the confidentiality of employee information across the division.
• Communicate with THQ departments (HR, Risk Management, Legal) and external vendors as needed.
• Collaborate with the Finance Department to provide personnel cost data for divisional budgeting.
• Resolve billing issues related to HR functions.
• Lead strategic workforce planning initiatives, including talent acquisition, succession planning, and workforce development.
• Support organizational change efforts, including restructuring, policy updates, and cultural initiatives.
• Utilize HR metrics and analytics to inform leadership decisions and drive continuous improvement.
• Participate in crisis and emergency response planning related to personnel and workplace safety.
• Evaluate and recommend HR technology solutions to enhance operational efficiency and data management.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

• Ability to sit, walk, stand, bend, squat, climb, kneel, and twist on an intermittent or sometimes continuous basis.
• Ability to grasp, push, and pull objects such as files, and file cabinet drawers, and reach overhead.
• Ability to participate in developed programs.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. (usually file boxes)
• Ability to operate a desktop or laptop computer.
• Ability to access and produce information from a computer.
• Ability to understand written information.
• Must be able to operate a motor vehicle.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or a closely related field is required.
• Master’s degree in Human Resources or a related discipline is preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive HR experience, including at least 5 years in a management or leadership role.
• Strong working knowledge of California labor laws, workers’ compensation regulations, and employee benefits administration.
• Professional HR certification is preferred (e.g., SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR).
• Valid California driver’s license with a clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR); must pass a driving test if applicable.
• Must successfully pass a criminal background check and obtain certification in Protect the Mission policies and procedures.

Skills, Knowledge & Abilities

• Proven team leadership skills with the ability to motivate and guide others effectively.
• Strong time management and organizational abilities to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Capable of working independently with minimal supervision while maintaining accountability.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for building positive relationships across all levels of the organization.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with attention to clarity and professionalism.
• Highly organized with strong planning skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient in maintaining accurate and well-structured electronic filing systems.
• Quick to learn and adapt to new software and technology tools.
• Solid understanding of business contracts, particularly within the construction industry.