HR Compliance Lead

Mission

The KeelWorks Foundation is a 501(c)(3) approved nonprofit foundation dedicated to' to support a better world by fostering learning competence, emotional intelligence, and networked intelligence, with a particular focus on empowering the economically disadvantaged. We aim to promote global economic equality through individual empowerment and inclusion, ultimately creating a more peaceful and equitable world.

We specifically aim to bring greater participation to the economically disadvantaged across the globe and in building a system to support upward mobility. We operate on the belief that unrealized human potential is a loss for everyone, that circumstances don't define individuals, that the hunger for learning is universal, and that every learner has unique gifts. Our programs include KeelWings, which provides practical experience for recent graduates, and KeelMate, which supports the experienced professionals.

About the Role

The HR Compliance Lead will oversee the organization’s HR compliance framework, ensuring we meet all applicable U.S. labor laws and nonprofit-specific requirements. They will be responsible for policy governance, complaint and escalation management, compliance training, and proactive risk management. The role requires strong legal/regulatory knowledge, investigative skills, and the ability to work collaboratively across the organization.

We are seeking a hands-on HR Compliance Lead to take ownership of our HR compliance function. This role will lead and execute all compliance activities, manage investigations, maintain and update policies, and ensure our HR practices align with legal requirements and organizational values. The role combines leadership and execution, ideal for someone who can both direct a small team and roll up their sleeves to do the work themselves and consistent, transparent decision-making with a commitment to ethical practices.

About the Position

Key Responsibilities include:

Leadership & Execution

• Lead the HR compliance function, working independently or with a small team (1–2 staff).
• Serve as the organization’s subject matter expert on HR compliance.

Regulatory Compliance Oversight

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local labor laws applicable to nonprofits and volunteer programs. Knowledge of the F1-OPT compliances are key.
• Monitor legal/regulatory changes and advise leadership on impacts to HR policies and practices.
• Ensure volunteer engagement processes comply with safeguarding and risk management standards.

Policy Development & Management

• Maintain and regularly update HR policies, employee handbooks, and volunteer guidelines.
• Draft new policies based on emerging legal requirements, organizational needs, or identified risks.
• Ensure policies are accessible, communicated effectively, and consistently applied.

Investigations & Case Management

• End to end ownership of leading confidential investigations into HR-related complaints (e.g., harassment, discrimination, misconduct).
• Ensure impartiality, thorough documentation, and appropriate resolution.
• Recommend corrective and preventive actions to leadership.

Training & Awareness

• Develop and deliver HR compliance training to employees, managers, and volunteers.
• Promote a culture of ethics, accountability, and legal compliance throughout the Organization.

Risk Management & Reporting

• Identify HR compliance risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Maintain accurate case files and compliance records.
• Provide regular compliance updates and risk reports to leadership and/or the Board.

What We’re Looking For (Qualifications)

• Strong knowledge of U.S. labor laws, HR compliance standards, and nonprofit/volunteer regulations.
• Experience leading or managing HR compliance programs, ideally in a nonprofit or volunteer-driven organization.
• Proven ability to conduct impartial HR investigations.
• Strong policy writing and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead a small team.
• High integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism.
• Understands unique compliance needs in volunteer-driven settings including F1 OPT compliances.

What You’ll Gain (What's in for you)

• A chance to make a great impact and contribute to a cause that improves the lives of people.
• An opportunity to help build a high-performing, engaging and mission-driven environment.
• Great work experience and exposure to diverse projects that make a real difference.
• Expansion of your professional network & exposure to working for a non-profit.

"If you have the time, experience organizationing operations, ability to guide others, and a desire to contribute to a meaningful cause, we can use your help." Keelworks Founder

Footnotes:

• Please leave a note with your application to acknowledge your awareness of the volunteer nature of the role. We will only proceed with those candidates who understand this to be an unpaid volunteer position.

This position is virtual and can be done from anywhere in or outside the United States.

An expected commitment of minimum of 8-10 hours per week and a minimum 3 month service commitment.

Visit our website at www.KeelWorks.org for more information.

Job Type: Part-time

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Professional development assistance

Work Location: Remote