Description

Associate Superintendent of Human Resources

Position Type: Administration Level 4, Associate Superintendent

Date Posted: May 1, 2026

Location: Waukegan Educational Services Center

Closing Date: Until Filled

Who We Are

Waukegan Community Unit School District No. 60, where we serve 13,500 students from preschool through grade 12 on the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, midway between Chicago and Milwaukee. With one early learning center, 15 elementary schools, five middle schools, and two high school campuses, we are committed to providing an inspiring, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact in the communities of Waukegan, Beach Park, and Park City!

Why We Do This Work

The Waukegan Community Unit School District No. 60 has set an ambitious agenda for change, guided by the belief that all children, regardless of circumstances, can achieve at high levels, and academic gaps can and will be eliminated with the support of teachers who deliver engaging, relevant, and academically rigorous instruction that excites students and instills a love of learning in them.

Position Description: The Associate Superintendent of Human Resources provides strategic direction and is responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources, including recruitment, hiring, employee relations, benefits administration, and compliance with personnel laws and district policies.  The Associate Superintendent of Human Resources reports directly to the Deputy Superintendent of Operational Supports and Programs, and reports indirectly to the Superintendent of Schools.

Key Responsibilities

Supervision of all Human Resource department staff members
Develop and implement a comprehensive human capital strategy in alignment with the District’s strategic plan
Develop, implement, and monitor human resources policies and practices in compliance with Illinois School Code, state and federal employment and labor laws, and collective bargaining agreements.
Lead the full life cycle talent acquisition e.g.  sourcing, screening, hiring, and onboarding processes for certified and non-certified staff, ensuring a diverse and highly qualified workforce that supports student achievement.
Participate in labor relations and serve as one of the primary liaison with employee unions and bargaining units, negotiating contracts and addressing grievances in accordance with district policies.
Oversee performance and talent management systems and professional development programs to enhance educator effectiveness and promote continuous improvement aligned with district goals.
Manage employee benefits administration, including health insurance, retirement plans, and leave management, ensuring compliance with district policies and state regulations.
Manage critical investigations when appropriate, and provide guidance and support on employee discipline, investigations, and compliance issues to maintain a safe and productive work environment.
Collaborate with district leadership and school administrators to address staffing needs. Design, develop and implement a robust workforce and succession planning strategy to meet the current  and future needs of the District.
Develop a comprehensive dashboard inclusive of metrics that matter to the District. Analyze metrics and generate reports on staffing, turnover, and employee satisfaction, etc. to inform strategic decision-making and promote a positive organizational culture.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Note: The Key Responsibilities listed above outlines the primary duties and responsibilities of the position and is intended as a representative, not exhaustive, summary of the work performed. Duties may be added, modified, or removed as the District’s needs and funding evolve. This description does not constitute an employment agreement and is provided for position evaluation purposes. 

Qualifications

Required

Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, Education Administration, or a related field.from an accredited university.
Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in human resources.
Minimum 5 years of experience leading a human resources department at a senior administrative level.
Extensive experience implementing and negotiating collective bargaining agreements
Experience with loss control prevention programs, risk management, medical insurance plans, FMLA, Workers Compensation, casual/property claims and coverages.
Ability to develop and implement HR strategies, workforce planning, and organizational development initiatives that align with District Strategic Plan
Experience with utilization and management of HRIS systems.
Knowledge and experience developing and managing grade/level compensation systems.
Proven experience leading change management initiatives and driving organizational culture.
Possess excellent oral and written communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively with minimal supervision.
Ability to remain flexible to changes in assignments or situations.
Ability to interact effectively with teachers, parents, staff, volunteers, and community members.
Ability to communicate effectively with individuals and groups of all ages, backgrounds, and educational levels.
Proven ability to lead, motivate and inspire a diverse team 
High ethical standards and discretion in handling confidential matters and information.
In-depth knowledge of state, local, and federal laws, rules, and regulations..

Preferred

Master’s Degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, or Education Administration from an accredited university
Illinois Professional Educator License, Superintendent or General Administrative Endorsement
Progressive experience in a K-12 public education environment.
Training or experience working with diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural populations.
Openness to feedback and willingness to take personal responsibility.
Ability to innovatively problem-solve with input from school staff and families.
Have a Sr. SHRM Certification
Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Terms of Employment: 12 months

Compensation: $115,500 to $214,500

Benefits

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 offers comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plans (TRS and voluntary 403(b)); Employee Assistance Program (EAP); flexible spending accounts; wellness programs; and additional services such as identity theft protection and LegalShield. Refer to the Waukegan Community School District #60 Employee Benefits site for specific eligibility requirements and options.

Pre-employment Background Checks

Employment with Waukegan Community Unit School District No. 60 is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check, fingerprinting, and applicable pre-employment screenings, including checks of the Statewide Sex Offender Database, Statewide Murderer and Violent Offender Against Youth Database. Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 complies with all applicable state and federal laws requirement practices. 

Reasonable Accommodations

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the ADA Amendments Act, and applicable state and local laws. If you require assistance or accommodation in completing any part of the application process, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please contact the Human Resources Department at (224) 303-1020.

Application Process

Candidates must submit an online application via the District website www.wps.org by the closing date. Only online positions will be considered. If you have questions regarding the application process, please contact the Human Resources Department at (224) 303-1020.

EEO Commitment

Waukegan Community Unit School District #60 is an equal opportunity employer. We provide employment opportunities without regard to age, race, color, gender, gender identity, religion, national origin, marital or military/veteran status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, parental status, genetics, disability, or any other protected category in accordance with federal, state, and local laws.