Director of Human Resources

Position: Director of Human Resources

Department: Human Resources

Reports to: Chief Finance Officer

Location: 566 W. Lake Street, Chicago, IL (in office 4 days a week)

Employment Type: Full-time benefits eligible

Join Richard, Purpose Builders: Where Your Impact Matters

At Richard, we're not just another construction company - we're the catalyst for change in the industry. As one of the fastest-growing general contractors in the nation, we offer the excitement and innovation of a startup with the stability and expertise of an established firm. We're seeking visionaries who are ready to break free from the constraints of traditional construction and make a real impact.

Why Choose Richard?

• Culture-First Approach: People and innovation over bottom line
• Purpose-Driven Projects: Build structures that truly matter, from critical healthcare facilities to cutting-edge data centers
• Rapid Growth: Be part of a company doubling in size while maintaining quality
• Collaborative, Caring Culture: Clear communication and proactive problem-solving, while supporting your health, financial wellness, and career growth
• Direct Impact: Your ideas shape our projects and company direction
• Innovation Freedom: Be at the forefront of construction technology and sustainable practices

At Richard, you're not just a number - you're a crucial part of our mission to transform the construction industry. We're creating efficient, dynamic spaces that advance communities, sustainability, and well-being. With nearly 200 diverse contracts since 2016 and a passionate team across the nation, we offer the resources of a large firm with the agility and personal touch of a boutique operation.

Break free from corporate constraints. Join Richard, Purpose Builders, and be the architect of your career while shaping the future of construction. Here, your voice is heard, your ideas matter, and your impact is visible.

Job Summary

The Director of Human Resources is responsible for developing and leading the strategic HR initiatives that drive Richard Group's growth and culture. This role oversees all HR functions, including talent acquisition, compliance, performance management, training, benefits, and employee engagement. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of HR in the construction industry-particularly in federal and healthcare projects-and will ensure compliance with government contracting regulations while fostering an innovative and people-first work environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute an HR strategy that aligns with Richard's business goals and growth plans.
• Partner with leadership to drive culture, engagement, and employee experience initiatives.
• Oversee workforce planning to ensure the right talent is hired, retained, and developed.
• Lead and refine DEI strategies to create a more diverse and inclusive workplace.
• Oversee recruitment efforts for field, project management, and corporate roles.
• Build and maintain a pipeline of skilled construction professionals and emerging talent.
• Develop career pathing, leadership development, and mentorship programs.
• Ensure HR policies and practices comply with federal contracting regulations including:
  
  
  
  • Davis-Bacon Act
  • OFCCP & Affirmative Action Requirements
  • Service Contract Act (SCA)
  • EEO & Prevailing Wage Laws
  
  
  
  
• Manage compliance reporting, security clearances, and certified payroll obligations.
• Drive employee engagement and retention strategies.
• Oversee investigations, conflict resolution, and policy enforcement with fair and consistent practices.
• Lead and implement performance management programs to support career growth.
• Manage competitive compensation strategies that attract and retain top talent.
• Partner with Finance on payroll administration and wage compliance.
• Develop and manage employee benefits and wellness programs.
• Optimize HR processes with HRIS, ATS, and workforce analytics.
• Track key HR metrics to inform leadership decision-making.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 10+ years of HR experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• HR experience in construction, engineering, or government contracting.
• Strong understanding of Davis-Bacon, OFCCP, SCA, EEO, and prevailing wage laws.
• Experience leading recruiting, compliance, employee relations, and benefits programs.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in HR, Business, or Organizational Development.
• HR Certification (SPHR, SHRM-SCP, or similar).
• Experience with mergers and acquisitions (M&A), including workforce integration and cultural alignment.
• Experience with union and non-union workforce management.
• Background in organizational development, training, and DEI initiatives.
• Proficiency in HR technology systems (HRIS, ATS, payroll software, etc.).

At Richard, we believe in showing the same gratitude and care to our team members that we do in our projects. This position comes with a competitive salary to match your level of experience and includes competitive benefits such as:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) option
• 15 days of paid time off (PTO)
• 7 paid holidays
• Richard's Quarterly Bonus Program is effective immediately to all employees, given they have met their 90-day new hire waiting period.
• Company 401(k) matching contributions
• Parental leave policy
• We fully cover transportation costs, including parking and train fares, for employees working from our Chicago office
• Affordable and freshly made breakfast and lunch provided through our on-site meal program
• Gym membership reimbursement program
• Fully paid two-month sabbatical leave for employees who reach their 10-year anniversary with the company
• All employees immediately have access to mentorship, regular skills-based training, and leadership development programs

Pay Range: $150,000 - $180,000. The base salary range for this position as of posting is Richard's good faith estimate of the possible compensation for this role. The range for this role takes into account the factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs.

Richard is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants and employees will receive equal employment opportunities without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.