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Chief Human Resources Officer

W. M. Keck Observatory
Full-time
On-site
Kamuela, Hawaii, United States
$183,141 - $241,356 USD yearly
HR Leader
As W. M. Keck Observatory’s Chief Human Resources Officer, cultivate a community where Human Resources leads with aloha for our team and our mission.
We are seeking an inspiring, strategic, and effective Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) to shape our culture and organizational strategy. As a member of the senior leadership team, the CHRO will champion organizational health and effectiveness, fostering an environment where every employee grows, contributes, and thrives. This role is ideal for a leader who believes that people are the foundation of organizational excellence.

The Chief Human Resources Officer’s Responsibilities:

The CHRO will guide the team’s cohesive, forward-looking approach to human resources — policy development, talent acquisition, leadership development, employee engagement and relations, total compensation management, and organizational culture. They will partner with leaders within the organization to foster organizational health and cultivate a workplace defined by mission and purpose. This role also ensures the consistent application of HR best practices, regulatory compliance, and data‑driven decision‑making to support a strong, well-run organization.

Why Choose W. M. Keck Observatory:


  • Be a part of a dedicated team working on the frontiers of astronomy.
  • Competitive starting salary ranging from $183,141 to $241,356.
  • Generous benefits package, including 4 weeks of annual paid vacation.
  • A robust 8% 403(b) employer contribution (with a 4% employee contribution).
  • Tuition assistance for dependent children grades K-12 attending private school on Hawai’i Island.
  • Comprehensive, employer provided health insurance.

Required Qualifications


  • Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a technical field from an accredited four-year college or university. Equivalent experience or a combination of education and experience will also be considered.
  • 10 years of progressive HR leadership experience, with at least 5 years in a senior HR leadership role in an organization of similar size or complexity.
  • 5 years of demonstrated experience in designing and implementing HR strategies aligned with organizational goals, particularly in areas such as talent management, employee engagement, and organizational development.
  • Proven ability to utilize HR metrics and analytics to drive decision-making and improve HR outcomes.
  • Expertise in HR technology systems and databases, with the ability to implement and leverage HR information systems to improve HR operations.
  • In-depth knowledge of labor law, employment regulations, and HR best practices, with at least 5 years of experience ensuring compliance and mitigating risk.
  • Experience in leading organizational change initiatives and managing transitions during periods of growth, restructuring, or strategic shifts.
  • Strong ability to architect and execute HR strategies based on organizational objectives, with a proven track record of aligning HR functions with business needs.
  • Strong strategic thinking and systems-oriented approach to managing complex projects and situations.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively manage and resolve conflicts within the workplace, fostering a positive work environment and maintaining productive relationships. Skilled in mediating disputes and facilitating difficult conversations with empathy and fairness.
  • Professional HR certification such as SHRM-SCP, SPHR, or GPHR.
  • Demonstrated experience in programming and project development, including strategic planning and execution.
  • Proficiency in data analysis and HR analytics tools.