Senior Manager, People Operations

Persons in these roles are expected to work from our offices in Seattle. On-site requirements vary based on position and team. If you have questions about on-site work arrangements for this role, please ask your recruiter.
Our base salary range is $144,500 - $217,000, and in addition we have generous bonus plans to provide a competitive compensation package.

Who You Are:

The Allen Institute for AI (Ai2) is seeking a strategic and hands-on Senior Manager, People Operations to join our People Operations team. In this senior leadership role, you'll oversee key areas such as compensation design and administration, HRIS management, immigration, employment compliance, and recruiting and benefits programs. You'll also lead and develop two direct reports, fostering their growth and ensuring alignment across the broader People Operations function.

You bring a strong foundation in total rewards, HR systems, and legal compliance, along with the ability to manage vendors, streamline processes, and deliver exceptional support to internal stakeholders. With 12+ years of progressive HR experience, you're known for your analytical mindset, organizational excellence, and proactive approach to solving complex challenges.

You're a collaborative and empathetic HR leader who thrives on helping people and improving systems. You think creatively, communicate clearly, and take pride in building programs that make a tangible impact.

If this sounds like the next step in your career journey, we encourage you to apply!

Who We Are:

The People Operations team is led by the Head of People Operations and includes four individual contributors, each playing an essential role in supporting Ai2's mission. We're a collaborative, close-knit group that values partnership, inclusivity, and a willingness to roll up our sleeves-no task is too small when it contributes to our shared success. Our leader also oversees the Office Team, a group of five who help create an exceptional day-to-day experience for everyone at Ai2.

The People Operations group reports to our Chief Operations and Strategy Officer as part of the Strategic Infrastructure (SI) organization-a 30+ person team focused on building the systems and foundations that enable Ai2's long-term success.

Your Next Challenge:

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

Compensation & Total Rewards

• Design, implement, and manage compensation structures, including base pay, variable pay, and annual salary reviews.
• Conduct market benchmarking, job evaluations, and compensation analysis to ensure internal equity and external competitiveness.
• Partner with finance and leadership on budgeting, forecasting, and compensation planning.

HRIS Management

• Oversee the configuration, optimization, and maintenance of the HRIS platform (e.g., Workday, ADP, UKG Ready, etc.).
• Lead HRIS initiatives related to automation, data integrity, reporting, and system enhancements.
• Serve as the internal expert and point of contact for HR reporting and analytics.

Immigration & Global Mobility

• Manage all aspects of immigration for international employees, including visas (e.g., H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1) and green card processes.
• Liaise with legal counsel, government agencies, and internal stakeholders to ensure accurate and timely processing.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with all immigration laws and regulations.

Employment Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations (e.g., FLSA, FMLA, ADA, EEOC).
• Monitor changes in employment law and advise leadership on necessary policy updates or procedural changes.
• Manage HR audits, reporting (e.g., Affirmative Action Plan, EEO-1), and documentation requirements.

Benefits Oversight

• Oversee administration of health, wellness, and retirement benefits in collaboration with internal teams and external brokers/vendors.
• Provide strategic input on benefits design, employee communications, and annual open enrollment.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and related regulations.

What You'll Need:

• 12 + years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with a focus on compensation, systems, compliance, and benefits.
• Proven experience designing and administering compensation plans and conducting market analysis.
• Strong knowledge of HRIS systems and reporting tools; UKG Ready or similar platform experience preferred.
• Familiarity with U.S. immigration processes and working with immigration counsel or in-house legal teams.
• Solid understanding of employment law and compliance requirements across multiple jurisdictions.
• Experience overseeing benefits administration and managing vendor relationships.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret and act on data.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize effectively, and maintain confidentiality.
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field required;
  Master's degree or…