Academic Jobs - Home of Higher Ed Logo
Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

Senior HR Business Partner

Closes:

197

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard Law School?

Join a community that combines excellence in legal education and scholarship with a deep commitment to justice. Here at Harvard Law School (HLS), you’ll find an environment that values who you are and encourages you to grow, inspire others, and make a meaningful impact. Wherever you are in your career journey, HLS is a place where you can thrive, contribute, and be part of something bigger.

Job Description

As part of the Human Resources team at Harvard Law School (HLS), the Senior HR Business Partner (Sr. HRBP) provides responsive, strategic, and transparent human resources consulting services to leaders and employees across the School’s organizations. This position will serve as the primary HR partner to the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society (BKC), the Institutional Data Initiative (IDI), and the Library Innovation Lab (LIL).

BKC, IDI, and LIL are innovative research centers operating at the intersection of law, technology, information, and knowledge. Their work involves highly interdisciplinary teams, including faculty, researchers, engineers, technologists, librarians, staff, students, fellows, affiliates, and other specialized professionals. The Sr. HRBP will help ensure that HR strategies, practices, and support are appropriately tailored to these varied populations and aligned with the groups’ academic, research, operational, and strategic objectives.

As a Senior HR Business Partner, you will:

  • Serve as the Sr. HR business partner to BKC, IDI, LIL, and other clients, providing tailored strategic guidance and operational support based on each group’s mission, organizational structure, workforce composition, and evolving priorities.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor and strategic partner to the leadership while ensuring alignment with HLS and University-wide HR policies, practices, and priorities.
  • Partner with leadership teams to navigate ambiguity and rapid scaling through organizational design, talent acquisition, professional development, change management, and employee engagement.
  • Establish and cultivate partnerships with client groups to enable proactive planning and collaboration on operational and strategic initiatives.
  • Identify opportunities to strengthen HR practices and promote consistency, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing across BKC, IDI, LIL, and other research and technology focused groups while respecting the distinct missions and operating models of each organization.
  • Lead talent acquisition strategy and execution including sourcing, selection, onboarding, and building diverse, high-quality talent pipelines aligned with business needs.
  • Guide and support leaders in resolution of complex employee relations concerns, performance management, team development, retention, and compensation.
  • Advise and counsel on best practices and approaches, presenting options for achieving desired results.
  • Actively partner with managers, staff, and bargaining unit representatives to strategically address workplace challenges, deliver tangible value, and identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Share responsibility for our commitment to inclusion and belonging.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required
  • Minimum of 8 years’ relevant HR experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills

We are looking for people who have:

  • Master’s degree in relevant field and/or professional HR certification is desirable;
  • Demonstrated experience as an HR Business Partner in a dynamic, multidisciplinary research environment, research institute, or startup-like organization;
  • Demonstrated consultative agility in supporting leaders through changing priorities and organizational evolution, moving between organizational design, workforce planning, team effectiveness, role clarity, change management, and practical coaching on individual and team matters;
  • Solid financial/business acumen with advanced knowledge of employment law and HR policies and practices;
  • Ability to operationalize business strategy through effective management of people, programs, and activities;
  • The ability to build and cultivate relationships and work collaboratively in a multi discipline and multi stakeholder environment;
  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills with a focus on productive outcomes, and client service excellence.

Additional Information

Appointment End Date: This is a two-year term appointment, with the potential for renewal, subject to departmental funding and need.

Standard Hours/Schedule: Full-time.

Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education, Criminal

Other Information:

All offers are made by HLS Human Resources.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 059. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

  • Generous paid time off including parental leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
  • Retirement plans with university contributions
  • Wellbeing and mental health resources
  • Support for families and caregivers
  • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
  • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Job details

Title
Senior HR Business Partner
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Cambridge
Published
Oct 16, 2026
Closes:
Dec 15, 2026
Job type
Full time, Human Resources
Field
General HR

Tell them AcademicJobs.com sent you!

Frequently Asked Questions

📋What is the Senior HR Business Partner?

This listing is for Senior HR Business Partner at Harvard University.

📍Where is this role located?

The listed location is Cambridge.

💰What is the salary?

Salary is not listed on this posting.

📅When do applications close?

Applications close on Dec 15, 2026.

💼What type of appointment is this?

The listed type is Full time.

📝How do I apply?

Use the Apply Now button on this listing to submit your application.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

Visit the employer page

Hire Experts… Post a Job

Post a Job

Roles… Create a Job Alert

Related Jobs

View All Jobs
Columbus, Ohio719

HR Service Center Representative 2

The Ohio State University
Emporia, Kansas890

Human Resources Professional

Emporia State University
Middletown, NY1,331

Director of Human Resources

SUNY Orange County Community College
Grand Rapids, Michigan942

Director of Human Resources Operations

Grand Rapids Community College
Lewisburg, Pennsylvania56

Chief Human Resources Officer

Bucknell University
Albuquerque, New Mexico49

HR Tech

University of New Mexico
Boston, Massachusetts530

Human Resources Administrative Assistant

Bunker Hill Community College
Rosemead, California1,398

Human Resources Director

University of West Los Angeles
Pueblo, Colorado61

Human Resource Generalist

Pueblo Community College