Description

DLA Architects is seeking a Human Resources Manager to join our team. As one of the Midwest's top-ranked architectural design firms, we are nationally recognized for our innovative approach to educational architecture and our commitment to a workplace culture that inspires growth, creativity, and fun.

This is a hands-on, execution-focused role for an HR professional who excels at managing the day-to-day operations of our people function. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, you will implement priorities set by firm leadership and ensure every team member at DLA receives consistent, high-quality HR support. In our project-based environment, you will be the dependable backbone of how we care for our professionals.

Who We Are

We shape spaces that empower learners to discover their full potential. Our mission says it plainly: we're fun people creating cool spaces for all learners across the universe. Founded in 1983, we've grown into a group of good humans who are future-thinking, collaborative, and committed to exceeding expectations, all while having fun doing it.

Our team of 58 tells the rest of the story. With an average tenure of more than 14 years, people don't just join DLA; they build careers here. We believe in working hard and enjoying the journey, which is why we offer a hybrid workplace, a collaborative office environment, and quarterly social outings like Top Golf and go-kart racing.

We're looking for an operational HR leader who will help us continue to build on this special culture by keeping our people practices steady, consistent, and aligned with our values. This person will be responsible for leading all Human Resources functions for the firm.

Key Responsibilities

Talent Acquisition & Onboarding

• Partner with leadership to align workforce planning with the firm's growth and long-term goals
• Coordinate with managers to fill design, technical, and administrative roles efficiently, while attracting candidates who reflect our collaborative, future-thinking values
• Run onboarding programs that help new hires feel supported and welcomed from day one
• Ensure hiring practices consistently reflect DLA's values and standards

Employee Relations & Engagement

• Handle employee relations matters with professionalism, discretion, and heart
• Administer engagement programs and gather feedback to share with leadership
• Reinforce DLA's collaborative, people-first culture through everyday HR practices
• Support a workplace where people feel respected, heard, and engaged

Compliance & Risk

• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws
• Develop and maintain HR policies and procedures and apply them consistently
• Conduct and document employee relations investigations as needed
• Partner with legal counsel on employment matters when directed

Benefits & Compensation Administration

• Administer benefits, leave, and 401(k) programs with clarity and care
• Implement compensation changes and reward programs as directed by leadership
• Provide market data and benchmarking to support leadership decisions
• Manage relationships with brokers, vendors, and benefit providers

Manager Support & People Operations

• Support performance management and employee development programs
• Advise leadership on organizational planning and workforce development
• Manage offboarding with care and consistency

HR Reporting & Records

• Maintain accurate personnel records and HR documentation
• Prepare HR reports and metrics that inform leadership decisions
• Keep HR systems organized, current, and reliable
• Ensure follow-through and accountability across all HR functions

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary: $120,000 – $155,000+ based on experience
• Bonus opportunity
• Health, dental, disability, and vision benefits
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development support

Location & Schedule

This role is based in our Itasca, IL office. We offer a hybrid schedule with an expectation of at least three days per week in the office, because the best collaboration and connection happen when we're together.

How to Apply

We'd love to hear from you. Please visit our website to submit your resume along with a cover letter that tells us about your experience and what great HR support looks like to you.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive Human Resources experience
• Proven success running an HR function independently and reliably
• Strong, current knowledge of employment law and HR best practices
• Experience administering recruiting, benefits, compliance, and employee relations
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
• A track record of consistent, dependable execution

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional services experience (Architecture, Engineering, Consulting, Accounting, or Legal)
• Experience supporting credentialed professionals in a project-based environment
• Familiarity with benefits administration, compliance, and HR systems management
• HR certification (PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP)

Skills & Competencies

• A proactive leader who takes ownership
• Operationally strong, with a sharp eye for detail and follow-through
• Steady and dependable under competing priorities
• Skilled at turning leadership direction into smooth, consistent practice
• Someone who knows how to get the details right and has fun doing it
• A trusted partner to leadership and staff