Thank you for your interest in joining our team!

We are looking for a Human Resources Manager to join our team!

Downstreet Housing and Community Development is a private, mission-driven, not-for-profit organization dedicated to delivering social justice through the power of housing. We pride ourselves on connecting people to the resources they need to thrive and creating equitable opportunities for everyone in Central Vermont to access safe, healthy homes. Through our work, we strengthen the health and future of our local communities.

Downstreet is seeking a collaborative, organized, and resourceful professional to lead our human resources function and help us build a strong, supportive, and effective workplace. With approximately 60 employees working across affordable housing development, property management, facilities, resident services, and administrative functions, Downstreet offers a dynamic work environment with a wide range of staffing and organizational needs.

The Human Resources Manager will work closely with organizational leadership to strengthen HR systems, support supervisors and employees, ensure compliance with employment laws, and foster a workplace where staff feel valued, supported, and equipped to succeed. We are looking for someone who brings sound judgment, strong interpersonal skills, and a practical approach to problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee day-to-day human resources functions, including recruitment, hiring, onboarding, employee relations, benefits administration, performance management, and employee records.
Work with leadership and staff to foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture that reflects Downstreet’s values, strengthens employee engagement, and supports staff retention.
Partner with organizational leadership and supervisors to address staffing needs, strengthen management practices, and support employee development and retention.
Manage recruitment and hiring processes, including job postings, candidate screening, interview coordination, reference checks, and onboarding.
Provide guidance to supervisors on employee performance, workplace concerns, conflict resolution, disciplinary processes, and personnel policies.
Ensure compliance with federal and Vermont employment laws and regulations, including wage and hour requirements, leave administration, workplace accommodations, and employment practices.
Coordinate employee benefits and work with HR Coordinator to ensure accurate employee information, compensation changes, and payroll-related processes.
Maintain and improve HR policies and procedures and work with HR Coordinator to ensure accurate and complete personnel records, and systems to support consistent, efficient, and legally compliant practices.
Coordinate employee performance evaluations, professional development opportunities, and staff training.
Support organizational compensation planning, including salary reviews, job descriptions, and equitable compensation practices.
Manage employee leave requests, including FMLA, Vermont leave requirements, disability accommodations, and other applicable leave programs.
Support employee engagement, internal communication, and organizational efforts to foster a positive, inclusive, and accountable workplace.
Identify opportunities to improve HR processes and work with leadership to implement practical solutions that meet the needs of a growing and evolving organization.

Experience and Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Management, or a related field and a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience, or an equivalent combination of education, employment, and life experience.
Experience in human resources, employee management, organizational administration, or a related field, with demonstrated ability to manage complex personnel matters.
Working knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices, or demonstrated ability to develop and apply this knowledge.
Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to navigate sensitive situations with professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment.
Demonstrated organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage competing priorities.
Experience supporting supervisors, improving workplace systems, and building positive working relationships.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn relevant HR and payroll software.
Commitment to equity and inclusion and social and economic justice.
Professional HR certification is welcome but not required.

Physical Requirements

Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working at a computer.
Ability to travel periodically to Downstreet properties and other work locations throughout Central Vermont.

Compensation

Salary: $80,000 - $82,000 per year, dependent on experience.

Benefits: Competitive package including 403b match, health and dental insurance, paid holidays, paid time off, life insurance, and short-term disability.

Application Instructions

Downstreet is strongest when we have a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We know that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status, disability, or Veteran status are encouraged to apply.

To apply, please complete the form below. Please include a resume and a cover letter explaining why you would like to be a part of the Downstreet team. Applications submitted without a cover letter will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed.