Department: Human Resources
Status: Full Time / Salary – Exempt
Reports To: Chief of Staff
Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee
Rate of Pay: $85,000 – $95,000
Summary
The Director of Human Resources at the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) serves as a strategic leader responsible for the development and execution of human resources initiatives that align with the organization’s mission, operational priorities, and long-term objectives. This role partners closely with executive leadership to drive organizational effectiveness through talent management, employee engagement, compliance, and culture. The Director oversees all aspects of HR operations and ensures the delivery of programs that support a diverse, inclusive, and high-performing workforce.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Other duties may be assigned consistent with the goals and objectives of CARTA.
1. Strategic HR Leadership
- Develop and implement a comprehensive HR strategy aligned with CARTA’s operational and strategic objectives.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on all human resources matters, including workforce planning, organizational design, and change management.
2. Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning
- Lead recruitment and staffing strategies to attract, hire, and retain qualified talent.
- Oversee onboarding processes to ensure successful integration of new employees.
- Analyze workforce trends and develop proactive staffing and succession plans.
3. Employee Engagement & Culture
- Design and implement employee engagement initiatives, including surveys, recognition programs, and culture-building efforts.
- Promote a collaborative, inclusive work environment that reflects CARTA’s values and supports employee retention.
4. Performance Management & Development
- Oversee performance management systems that promote accountability, continuous feedback, and professional growth.
- Develop and administer training and leadership development programs to enhance workforce capability.
5. Policy Development & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, including FMLA, ADA, and those specific to public transit agencies.
- Develop, update, and enforce HR policies and procedures consistent with organizational goals and legal requirements.
- Oversee CARTA’s Drug-Free Workplace program in accordance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988.
- May serve as the designated Drug and Alcohol Program Manager (DAPM), ensuring compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements and overseeing program administration.
6. Compensation & Benefits Management
- Oversee the design, evaluation, and administration of compensation and benefits programs to ensure competitiveness and alignment with organizational goals.
- Conduct wage and salary analyses and ensure compliance with applicable laws and industry standards.
- Serve as CARTA’s representative on the pension board as assigned, participating in governance and oversight of retirement plan administration.
- Provide guidance to employees on retirement benefits, including assisting with the calculation and understanding of pension and retirement options.
7. HR Analytics & Reporting
- Develop and utilize HR metrics and reporting systems to evaluate program effectiveness and inform strategic decision-making.
- Analyze workforce data, including turnover, retention, and engagement trends, and provide recommendations to leadership.
8. HR Operations & Team Leadership
- Oversee daily HR operations to ensure efficient and consistent service delivery.
- Lead, mentor, and develop HR staff, fostering a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
Experience
- Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive HR experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
Certifications
- SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Comprehensive knowledge of human resources principles, employment law, and regulatory compliance requirements.
- Experience in public sector or transit environments preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic HR initiatives.
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence at all organizational levels.
- Proficiency in HRIS systems and workforce analytics.
Equal Opportunity Statement
CARTA is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status.