Director of Human Resources - Compliance

CEI is seeking a Director of Human Resources - Compliance, a meticulous, forward-thinking, and strategically-minded professional ready to lead our compliance and risk mitigation strategy in one of the country's most dynamic growth regions.

As a nationally recognized civil engineering firm with deep roots in Northwest Arkansas, CEI has established a reputation for delivering reliable, high-quality work. We understand that our success depends on maintaining the highest standards of legal and ethical conduct. We're ready to ensure our internal policies and practices are ironclad, and we need the right leader to make that happen.

In this critical role, you will be the final word on HR compliance, risk management, and regulatory adherence across our multi-state operations. You'll define the strategy, build and audit our compliance programs, interpret evolving labor law, and position CEI as an employer committed to fairness, transparency, and integrity.

If you're the kind of professional who thrives on transforming complex legal text into clear, actionable policy-who loves both the "big picture" of organizational risk and the details of I-9 verification-we'd like to talk to you.

Join a firm where your vigilance is valued, and your expertise shapes our foundation.

About the Role

CEI is seeking a seasoned HR professional who has a deep understanding of the federal, state, and local regulatory landscape impacting a multi-state workforce. As the Director of HR - Compliance, you will leverage your expertise in employment law, HRIS auditing, and policy development to drive compliance, mitigate risk, and elevate our internal governance. You'll cultivate internal partnerships with leaders and staff, identify high-risk areas, and strategically lead our commitment to being a legally sound and ethical employer.

If you're ready to advance your career by guiding the evolution of ethical and legal workplace practices nationwide, CEI could be the right fit for you.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Focus Area 1: Compliance, Policy, and Risk

• Develop, implement, and audit all human resources policies to meet organizational needs and ensure strict compliance with state and federal laws.
• Act as the primary interpreter of employment law (EEOC, ADA, FMLA, FLSA, etc.) for the HR team and senior leadership, ensuring policies and procedures are compliant across all operating states.
• Own and execute all mandated annual compliance reporting, including but not limited to VETS-4212, EEO-1, and OSHA filings, ensuring accuracy and timely submission across all relevant jurisdictions.
• Oversee all internal HR audits (e.g., I-9, wage and hour, multi-state handbooks, benefits eligibility) and manage the implementation of corrective action plans.
• Lead the development, implementation, and mandatory training for employee handbooks, ethics policies, and company codes of conduct.
• Respond to inquiries regarding policies, procedures, and programs from all levels of the organization.

Focus Area 2: Strategic HR Leadership & Support

• Ensure regular communication and support with human resources staff and managerial staff to exchange information and provide ongoing problem resolution related to policy interpretation and compliance.
• Support the due diligence phase of strategic planning by researching potential office locations, specifically analyzing the associated compliance risks, multi-state law differences, and regulatory requirements in identified regions.
• Monitor compensation and benefit plans primarily for compliance with all relevant laws (e.g., ACA, ERISA, FLSA overtime classifications) and support the overall goals of competitiveness.
• Perform any other related duties as required or assigned to support CEI's operational success and compliance posture.

Knowledge and skills required for the position are

• Bachelor's (4-year) degree in Human Resources or related field. Five (5) years of HR experience may substitute for a degree.
• A minimum of five (5) years of human resources experience is required.
• Ability to manipulate and analyze data for enhanced reporting and appropriate business recommendations.
• Strong ability to write and prepare reports, charts, and graphs.
• Ability to verbally communicate with others, to coach and lead, and to interface with all levels of the organization.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• PHR/SPHR or SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP preferred.
• Valid Driver's License with acceptable driving record and ability to occasionally travel overnight