Director, Human Resources, IS-0201-14

OPENING DATE: May 27, 2026 CLOSING DATE: July 20, 2026 SERIES/GRADE: 0201/14 TYPE OF POSITION: Trust Indefinite (Non-Federal) DIVISION: Human Resource Department LOCATION: Cambridge, MA AREA OF CONSIDERATION: This position is open to all eligible candidates. SAO is unable to provide sponsorship for this position. What are Trust Fund Positions?

Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status.

The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side.

Benefits

, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care). Conditions of Employment Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation, as required. Complete a Probationary Period if applicable.

Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer. The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States. S.

is not required to apply.

Requirements

within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. INTRODUCTION The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA).

The CfA is the best-known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground-based astronomy and astrophysics research to space-based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground-based facilities, and research designed to improve science education. The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support.

Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non-Federal contracts and grants. SUMMARY The position provides direction to subordinate managers, supervisors, and technical specialists, exercising broad authority for the supervision and integration of complex human resources programs.

The incumbent is responsible for overseeing both Federal and non-federal (Trust) hiring processes, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and compliance across categories of employment. The incumbent leads electronic initiatives and modernization efforts, driving the adoption of new HR systems, digital workflows, and process innovations to enhance efficiency, transparency, and the employee experience across the organization. 1.

Strategic Planning and Program Leadership Develop and implement human resources strategies aligned with SAO’s mission and Smithsonian priorities. Advises the Director, COO, and senior leadership on workforce planning, personnel matters, and organizational initiatives. Provide regular reporting to the SAO executive on HR processes, metrics, and progress towards goals.

Represent the Human Resources Department on SAO wide committees, working groups, and task forces, focused on improving HR policies and practices.