Director of Human Resources

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is seeking to fill the position of Director of Human Resources. 

PPPL is one of ten Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science Laboratories, and is managed by Princeton University. PPPL scientists and engineers advance the coupled fields of fusion energy and plasma physics. PPPL staff and collaborators together are developing the scientific understanding and key innovations needed to realize fusion as an energy source for the world, and are conducting research along the broad frontier of plasma science and technology. PPPL also nurtures and supports the national research enterprise in these fields, and educates the next generation of plasma and fusion scientists.  PPPL’s annual funding is approximately $80 million, and the Laboratory’s workforce population numbers about 450. This position reports to the Deputy Director for Operations and Chief Operating Officer.

The Human Resources Department includes a staff of seven (7) and an annual budget of approximately $1 million. The Director of Human Resources is both a strategic partner and a hands-on leader responsible for providing direction for human resources planning and administration for the Plasma Physics Laboratory as well as all day-to-day operations and compliance of the Office of Human Resources (OHR), including staffing, compensation, benefits administration, employee relations, HRIS, policy administration, and development of environment, safety and technical training.  Additionally, the Director manages both the Laboratory’s Occupational Medical Office and Research Library.

The Director of Human Resources plays a key role in the management and administrative leadership of the Laboratory, making sure that the goals of OHR are in alignment with the Laboratory’s overall strategy, maintaining important contractual obligations to the DOE, and strengthening and supporting the morale and goodwill of staff through a myriad of programs. As a Laboratory leader, the Director serves on the PPPL Leadership Council and is an influential voice for strategies, philosophies and initiatives that represent best practices in HR, she/he applies broad-based HR and management knowledge proactively, and works closely with Princeton University’s Office of General Counsel, the University Office of Human Resources and the Office of the Dean of the Faculty. In addition, the Director advises senior managers and front-line managers, aiming to build consensus while acknowledging differences. In fostering a positive relationship with the DOE, the Director of Human Resources analyzes, interprets, and works closely with documents that include the DOE Prime Contract. The Director endeavors to assure that positive employee relations are a priority and that OHR staff are open to employee concerns and are actively engaged in the support of the Laboratory. 

Credentials, experience and capabilities for this position include: 

• A Master's degree, professional Human Resource certification or equivalent experience
• Typically a minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership, management and consultancy experience in a diverse Human Resources (HR) environment as well as basic knowledge of all HR functions
• Five or more years of supervisory experience
• HR experience in a workplace supported by sponsored research is desirable
• Strategic planning capability with solid analytical ability and good judgment in both technical and relationship management
• Strong employee relations skills and strong organizational development skills
• A capacity to build and maintain strong working relationships across the organization. These proven people skills will be an asset in a technical environment with a well-defined culture
• The ability to manage multiple relations at all levels of the organization

• Exceptional verbal and presentation skills and the ability to provide clear information in verbal, written, and electronic media; be able to communicate effectively with all levels at the Laboratory and the University

• Knowledge and comfort with computers and advancing technologies

• Demonstrated project management skills in a complex environment with multiple stakeholders and competing priorities
• A strong and energetic work ethic; an open door management style