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Director of People & Culture

Critical Systems
Full-time
On-site
Rockville, Maryland, United States
Company Culture & Engagement

Critical Systems has entered an exciting growth phase. As we scale in size, complexity, and impact, we’re investing in the infrastructure needed to expand our team and sustain a values-driven culture. We’re seeking an experienced, hands-on HR leader who thrives in self-paced, entrepreneurial environments—someone who can design systems, support managers, and contribute strategically while rolling up their sleeves to execute with excellence.


This is a unique opportunity to shape the employee experience and build the people strategy at a pivotal moment in our company evolution.


The Director of People & Culture Operations will build and support HR functions across the full employee lifecycle—from recruiting and onboarding to compensation, performance management, benefits, professional development, and culture. This role is critical to ensuring that our people practices support outstanding client service and long-term business growth.


What You Will Need:


8+ years of progressive HR experience, including leadership of key initiatives

Experience in similar organizations

Bachelor’s degree in HR or a related field; SHRM‑SCP or SPHR certification preferred

Proven success building HR infrastructure in fast-growing organizations

Energetic self-starter and resourceful problem solver—able to take initiative and drive results

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a collaborative mindset and diplomatic judgment

Calm under pressure, with strong follow-through and attention to detail in deadline-driven environments

Proactive, adaptable, and outcomes-oriented

Strong ethical judgment and commitment to confidentiality


What You Will Do:


Work may include, but is not limited to, the following:

  • Manage end-to-end recruitment and onboarding processes
  • Design and implement scalable HR systems, policies, and tools to support headcount and revenue growth
  • Manage HR technology (e.g., ATS, HRIS) and use people analytics to inform leadership decisions and workforce planning
  • Oversee performance management and feedback programs, including goal-setting cycles
  • Manage group benefits plans for all eligible employees 
  • Serve as the internal expert of our offered health plans
  • Manage the open enrollment window for Employee Benefits plans and team with broker to resolve benefits queries and issues.
  • Support compensation and benefits strategy and administration
  • Equip and coach managers to lead high-performing teams through toolkits, training, and real-time support
  • Drive culture and engagement initiatives 
  • Manage internal communications
  • Implement employee programs
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable employment laws and HR best practices
  • Advise managers on policy interpretation and employee relations matters
  • Partner with leadership on workforce planning and organizational design
  • Monitor industry trends and implement best practices in hiring, retention, and talent development


What You Will Get:


  • Health, Dental & Vision Insurance for all employees
  • 401(k) with matching and profit sharing
  • 4 weeks of paid time off (PTO) in your first year
  • Paid Parental Leave


Applicants may be asked to complete HR communication skills and general HR skills testing during the interview phase.