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Director of Human Resources

Arlington, VA

ABOUT NOOKS

Nooks is pioneering Classified Infrastructure-as-a-Service (CIaaS) to provide government and industry partners with the fastest, most efficient access to classified infrastructure. We are building a nationwide network of accredited classified spaces and systems, ensuring that the best technologies equip our nation’s warfighters. At Nooks, we value innovation, collaboration, and a service-first mindset.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Nooks is seeking an experienced and strategic Director of Human Resources to build, scale, and lead our HR function from the ground up. This pivotal role will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive HR strategies, programs, and policies that attract, develop, and retain top-tier talent, while navigating the unique complexities and stringent compliance requirements of the defense contracting and classified environments. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader, deeply knowledgeable in HR best practices, government contracting regulations, and passionate about fostering a high-performance, ethical, and security-conscious culture.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic HR Leadership:

  • Develop and execute HR strategies and initiatives that are directly aligned with the company's overall business objectives, growth plans, and mission.
  • Act as a trusted advisor and strategic partner to the CEO, executive leadership team, and managers on all human capital matters.
  • Champion and cultivate a high-performance, ethical, inclusive, and mission-driven company culture.
  • Supervise the HR team, consisting of two talent acquisition specialists and one HR generalist.

Talent Acquisition & Management:

  • Design and oversee a robust talent acquisition strategy to attract, recruit, and onboard highly skilled technical and cleared professionals in a competitive market.
  • Develop effective onboarding programs, particularly for employees who require security clearances.
  • Implement and manage performance management systems, including goal setting, feedback, reviews, and performance improvement plans.
  • Design and execute learning & development programs, career pathing initiatives, and succession planning programs.
  • Develop and implement retention strategies to minimize turnover of critical talent.
  • Establish and maintain clear leveling strategies and salary banding to ensure internal equity, market competitiveness, and transparency in compensation.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Design, implement, and administer competitive compensation structures, including salary, bonus, and equity compensation (such as stock options), as well as comprehensive benefits programs, ensuring 409A compliance.
  • Ensure compensation practices comply with government contractor regulations (e.g., OFCCP, SCA, FLSA).

HR Compliance & Risk Management:

  • Ensure full compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations (e.g., ADA, EEO).
  • Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies, procedures, and employee handbooks in accordance with legal requirements and industry best practices.
  • In collaboration with the security team, oversee and ensure compliance with the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) and Intelligence Community Directives (ICDs) related to personnel security.
  • Support the security clearance process for employees, including initial applications, periodic reinvestigations, and incident reporting.
  • Manage employee relations, conduct investigations, and provide guidance on disciplinary actions and terminations.

HR Operations & Systems:

  • Select, implement, and manage HR Information Systems (HRIS) and other HR technologies to streamline processes and enhance data analytics capabilities.
  • Oversee payroll and benefits administration.
  • Develop and report on key HR metrics and analytics to inform decision-making.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Startup Experience: Demonstrated significant experience working in a high-growth startup company. 
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
  • Experience: Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role (Manager or Director level).
  • HR Generalist Expertise: Strong command of all core HR functions, including talent acquisition, compensation & benefits, performance management, employee relations, and HR operations.
  • Startup Mindset: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and evolving startup environment; hands-on approach, adaptability, and comfort with ambiguity.
  • Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills to build rapport and influence at all levels.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • SHRM-CP/SCP or SPHR certification.
  • Experience in a rapidly scaling startup environment.
  • Familiarity with Gusto.

ELIGIBILITY + CLEARANCE

You must have secret clearance eligibility. U.S. citizenship required. 

Salary Range for all departments

Salary Range

$150,000 - $175,000 USD

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