Ascend Autism is a family-centric, tech-enabled autism therapy company serving children and families across the Northeast. Through a natural and accessible approach to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Ascend Autism is elevating outcomes for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). At Ascend Autism, we prepare kids and families for what’s next.
The Senior HR Manager will lead and oversee all human resources functions while serving as a true player/coach within a lean, fast-moving HR team. This role requires a hands-on leader who can both set direction and personally execute, with strong ownership of day-to-day HR operations, systems, and processes. The ideal candidate is organized, adaptable, and comfortable moving quickly across priorities, while using technology and HR systems fluently to drive execution, visibility, and accountability. This position will partner closely with leadership to foster a high-performance culture grounded in collaboration, integrity, accountability, and clinical excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Talent Acquisition & Retention
- Develop strategic recruiting plans to attract BCBA, RBT, and administrative/operational talent
- Manage onboarding and orientation processes to ensure smooth integration
- Monitor employee retention and implement initiatives to improve satisfaction and reduce turnover
2. Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, as well as industry-specific regulations (HIPAA, FERPA, etc.)
- Maintain up-to-date HR policies, procedures, and employee handbook
3. Employee Relations & Engagement
- Serve as a resource for employee concerns, conflict resolution, and performance issues
- Develop and support initiatives that promote employee well-being, recognition, and a positive workplace culture
4. Performance Management & Development
- Oversee performance evaluation systems for clinical and administrative/operational staff
- Develop professional development and training programs to support career growth and clinical excellence
5. HR Operations
- Personally execute key HR workflows and projects in addition to leading and developing the HR function
- Serve as a hands-on subject matter expert across HR systems, processes, and employee lifecycle matters
- Own and maintain HR systems, employee records, and core HR workflows with a high level of accuracy and accountability
- Partner with finance on compensation, benefits, and payroll administration while ensuring strong day-to-day follow-through
- Analyze HR metrics, prepare reports for senior leadership, and use data to improve decision-making and execution
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred)
- SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or PHR/SPHR certification preferred
- Minimum of 5+ years of progressive HR experience, including direct responsibility for employee relations, HR operations, recruiting, and HR systems
- Strong understanding of labor laws, compliance, and healthcare HR operations
- Strong working fluency with HRIS, ATS, and productivity systems; ability to quickly learn and effectively use new platforms and tools
- Comfortable using technology to improve visibility, accountability, reporting, and execution across HR operations
- Exceptional written, interpersonal, problem-solving, and leadership skills
- Demonstrated ability to operate with urgency, adapt quickly to changing priorities, and move projects across the finish line in a fast-paced environment
Benefits:
- Competitive salary
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) match
- PTO and paid holidays
- Professional development assistance
- Supportive and collaborative team culture
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of sitting and standing in an office environment
- Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at a time
