Job Description

Are you ready to lead the people strategy behind the most advanced astronomical projects on Earth? We are looking for a strategic, resilient, and collaborative Head of Human Resources to join AURA (Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy). This is a unique opportunity to bridge world-class science with operational excellence, managing a high-performing team and navigating a complex, international environment.

About the Company AURA is a world leader in astronomical research, operating flagship observatories such as the Rubin Observatory and Gemini South. As a US-based non-profit government contractor with a significant footprint in Chile, we manage a diverse workforce of over 300 employees, including Chilean nationals and international expatriates. We are a mission-driven organization where science meets innovation.

Purpose of the Role As the Head of HR Chile:

You will be acting as a Strategic HR Business Partner for local leadership and unions, leading the Chile HR team, and collaborating on global initiatives with our corporate offices in Tucson and Hawaii. Your mission is to balance local operational agility with corporate risk management, ensuring a culture of trust and high performance.

Main Responsibilities:

• Strategic HRBP: Act as a key advisor to local leaders and union representatives, moving from a "compliance-only" mindset to a collaborative "how-to" approach.
• Team Leadership: Direct and mentor the Chile HR team (5 people), covering recruitment, operations, and generalist functions.
• Labor Relations: Lead collective bargaining processes and maintain high levels of trust with union leaders and employees.
• Global Collaboration: Work closely with the HR heads in Tucson and Hawaii to implement cross-location initiatives and unified HR structures.
• Organizational Design: Advise on workforce planning, succession, and change management during critical growth phases (e.g., Rubin Observatory operations).
• Corporate Synergy: Navigate the relationship between Chile operations and US Corporate, managing communication gaps regarding risk and execution speed.
• Data-Driven Management: Develop and track key HR metrics and manage the local HR budget effectively.

Technical Requirements:

• Experience: 10+ years in Human Resources, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or management capacity.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business, or a related field
• Labor Law: In-depth knowledge of Chilean Employment and Labor Law and proven experience in Collective Bargaining.
• Languages: Full professional fluency in English and Spanish (C1 level minimum), capable of reporting to US-based leadership.
• Matrix Environment: Previous experience in multinational or international organizations is highly desired.

What we value (Fit & Soft Skills):

• Strategic Resilience: Ability to navigate organizational tensions and "middle-ground" challenges between local needs and corporate requirements.
• Trust-Building: A natural ability to connect with diverse stakeholders, from world-class scientists to union delegates.
• Proactivity: A problem-solver who anticipates issues rather than reacting to them.
• Judgment: High discretion and integrity when handling sensitive expatriate and local labor issues.

Benefits & Conditions:

• Location: Ideally based in La Serena (3-4 days in office). We are open to candidates based in Santiago with a commitment to travel to La Serena/Observatory bi-weekly.
• The Project: Work at the forefront of human knowledge, supporting the team operating the world's most advanced telescopes.
• Stability: A robust HR structure already in place with a competent, established team.