Director of Human Resources

Job Title: Director of Human Resources

Location: Discovery Kingdom (primary) & CA Great America
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt
Department: Human Resources
Reports To: Regional Director, Human Resources

Salary: $145,000 - $182,000 annually, depending on experience

The Director of Human Resources (HR) will serve as a strategic business partner to the park’s leadership team, aligning people strategies with operational goals to drive results and enhance the employee experience. This role requires a leader with a high level of integrity, discretion, and sound judgment, capable of managing a full-time to high-volume seasonal workforce and navigating compliance matters in a fast-paced environment. 

This role oversees all aspects of HR including recruitment, seasonal compensation, performance management, and maintaining compliance with California labor laws and regulations. While based at Discovery Kingdom, this role will also have HR oversight for CA Great America approximately 60 miles away.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned HR leader with a deep understanding of California employment practices, a strong leadership track record, and the ability to work with and support all levels of employees.

• Develop and implement HR strategies and initiatives that support the park’s business objectives, advising leadership on HR trends and best practices.
• Oversee full-cycle recruitment, hiring, and onboarding process for a large seasonal and full-time workforce, ensuring appropriate staffing levels across all departments during peak seasons.
• Manage all aspects of the HR team to include but not limited to compliance, wardrobe, engagement events, housing, exchange programs, as well as supplemental staffing programs.
• Champion a positive park culture and drive employee engagement initiatives. Manage complex employee relations issues, partnering with Corporate as needed and provide coaching and counsel to drive effective workplace resolutions.
• Partner with Regional GM and Park Leadership to align compensation strategy with park goals and budget.
• Oversee the implementation of orientation, leadership, and skills training programs, ensuring all employees receive sufficient training to meet job performance and safety guidelines.
• Leverage HR metrics and data insights to make informed decisions, track key performance indicators to drive sound HR practices.
• Manage performance and compensation review processes across all divisions.
• Ensure compliance with California, federal, and local employment laws.
• Develop and manage HR budget. Adjust labor and expense budget, as needed, to meet park needs and goals.
• Ability to work hours to meet business needs to include nights, holidays, and weekends.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s degree preferred), or equivalent experience
• 8+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership role
• Experience in the theme park or hospitality industry is beneficial as is a track record of managing high volume seasonal staffing is preferred
• SHRM-SCP or SPHR certification preferred

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Strong strategic thinking and business acumen
• Demonstrated success building high-performing, inclusive teams
• Ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of leadership
• High integrity, discretion, and sound judgment