Head of People Operations - AI Technology Startup

Title: Head of People Operations

Location: San Francisco, CA

Salary: $170k - 250k + Bonus + Equity

Schedule: 5 days onsite plus available after hours & weekends

Head of People Operations

San Francisco, CA (In-Person, 5 Days/Week with remote availability on Saturdays as needed)

The Opportunity

Our client, a fast-growing top-notch AI startup, is seeking a Head of People Operations to build and scale the operational backbone of its global people function.

This role blends strategic HR leadership with hands-on operational execution. You will design and implement the systems, policies, and infrastructure required to support a high-performance, fast-scaling organization operating across multiple jurisdictions.

Reporting directly to the executive team, you will partner closely with finance, legal, and operations leaders to ensure the company can grow quickly while maintaining rigor, compliance, and an exceptional employee experience.

What You’ll Do

People Systems & Infrastructure

• Own and optimize HR systems (HRIS, payroll, benefits administration, internal data infrastructure)
• Build scalable, reliable processes that support rapid growth

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Employee Lifecycle Ownership

• Oversee onboarding, offboarding, promotions, role changes, and performance cycles
• Ensure a seamless and high-quality employee experience at every stage

Policies & Processes

• Design and implement structured, scalable HR policies and procedures
• Bring clarity and consistency to a fast-moving environment

Analytics & Reporting

• Drive reporting across headcount, retention, attrition, and performance
• Enable data-driven workforce planning

Compliance & Global Operations

• Ensure compliance with local employment laws across jurisdictions
• Partner with legal and finance on international payroll, immigration, and employment structures
• Manage documentation and internal compliance processes

Additional Impact Areas

• Oversee benefits administration and vendor partnerships
• Act as a trusted HR business partner to leadership on performance management and organizational design
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee relations matters
• Help build and scale a world-class people organization from the ground up

What We’re Looking For

• 8–10+ years of experience in People Operations, HR, or related roles within high-growth technology companies
• Experience supporting international workforces (e.g., India)
• Strong ability to operate in ambiguity while building structure and systems
• Deep understanding of employment law, compliance, and HR operations
• Systems-oriented mindset with a track record of building scalable infrastructure
• High integrity and discretion when handling sensitive information
• Proven ability to partner closely with senior leadership and operate with ownership

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary: $170,000 – $225,000
• Generous equity grant and annual performance bonus
• $15,000 relocation bonus (Bay Area)
• $10,000 housing bonus (within 0.5 miles of office)
• $1,500 monthly meal stipend
• Complimentary Equinox membership
• $200 monthly laundry reimbursement
• $200 monthly wellness reimbursement
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company match

We will consider qualified candidates with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the San

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