Job Description

Director of Human Resources Multi-Unit Restaurant/Retail

Chula Vista, CA | Hybrid (Onsite + Flex)

$150K - $175K Base + Quarterly Commission Bonus

Full-Time | Travel Required (Southern CA + Regional Units)

Industry: Restaurant | QSR | Franchise Food | Big Box | Retail Chain

Lead People. Shape Culture. Build Systems That Scale.

HireNow Staffing is seeking a seasoned Director of Human Resources to lead people strategy for a high-growth, multi-location restaurant and retail-style organization with a dynamic, hospitality-driven culture. With over 600 employees across California, this fast-moving brand needs a people leader who can bring structure, heart, and results to the table whether you're in the boardroom, on-site at a franchise unit, or coaching operators in the field.

This is not a stay-in-the-office type of role. We're looking for someone ready to roll up their sleeves and be present where people are whether that's at a convenience-style franchise, a QSR outlet, or a high-volume dining location.

What You'll Own

• Lead all areas of HR across multiple units recruiting, training, performance, compliance, employee relations, benefits, and labor relations

• Coach and develop field managers, GMs, and supervisors to drive a consistent, legally sound, and people-first approach to employee management

• Serve as a trusted strategic advisor to executive leadership and operations, with a clear eye on talent retention, policy development, and team culture

• Navigate complex employee relations issues with confidence conduct investigations, lead mediations, and support performance action plans

• Manage and oversee Workers' Compensation cases, including claims, communication, and litigation support

• Keep HR systems and practices ahead of the curve ensure compliance with federal, state (especially California ), and local labor regulations

• Partner closely with operations to shape scalable onboarding, training, and employee engagement strategies

• Travel regularly to field locations throughout California and potentially neighboring states to maintain visibility and build manager relationships

Essential Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (required); SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or PHR/SPHR preferred

• Minimum 5 years of Director-level HR leadership experience managing a team and supporting 600+ employees

• Must have worked in multi-unit settings such as:

  • Quick Service Restaurants (QSR)

  • Franchise Food/Retail Operations

  • Big Box Retail (Target, Walmart, Costco, etc.)

  • Chain Convenience Stores

• Strong working knowledge of California labor laws and federal HR regulations

• Demonstrated expertise in managing Workers Comp cases and providing HR support for employment-related litigation

• Proven ability to lead HR strategy while remaining hands-on in execution

• Excellent interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence; able to mediate, influence, and build trust at all levels

• Bilingual (Spanish) preferred, but not required

• Must be willing and able to travel regularly to store/restaurant locations

What's in It for You

• Competitive salary range: $150K - $175K

• Quarterly commission bonus structure tied to strategic HR and operational milestones

• Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, PTO, holidays, and more

• Hybrid flexibility: Be onsite when needed, with work-from-home days for planning and reporting

• Direct line to senior leadership this role shapes strategy, not just policy

Your Impact

If you're an HR leader who thrives in high-volume, people-powered environments and understands the unique pace and demands of chain restaurants, QSRs, or franchise retail you'll feel right at home here. This is your opportunity to lead with influence, build with intention, and create consistency where it matters most: on the frontlines of hospitality.

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