People Operations Manager Milpitas, CA

Robo Force is an AI robotics company developing Physical AI–powered Robo-Labor for dull, dirty, and dangerous work. The company’s robots are engineered for demanding industrial environments, with a focus on real-world deployment and scalability.

We’re seeking our first People Operations Manager to own and evolve the people infrastructure of Robo Force. This role has company-wide ownership across the employee lifecycle, including onboarding, compensation, performance management, benefits, compliance, and employee experience.

The ideal candidate will have extensive People Operations experience in high-growth, technical companies (robotics, hardware, AI), and has operated with a high degree of autonomy while partnering closely with founders and senior leaders. You bring strong judgment and execution discipline, building structure where needed while preserving speed, accountability, and culture.

• Own and steward all core People Operations functions, including onboarding, compensation, benefits, performance management, compliance, and offboarding.
• Set and maintain people policies and practices that are pragmatic, compliant, and stage-appropriate.
• Own and manage employee relations matters, partnering closely with company leadership and legal counsel as appropriate.

• Serve as a trusted advisor to founders and senior leaders on organizational design, role clarity, and people strategy.
• Provide guidance and support to managers on performance, feedback, and employee development.
• Help establish consistent management expectations and operating norms.

• Own compensation frameworks and leveling structures.
• Partner with finance and leadership on compensation planning and equity administration.
• Manage benefits programs and vendor relationships.

• Design and operate lightweight performance management and feedback processes.
• Support the reinforcement of company values and culture through systems and behaviors.
• Ensure a consistent and high-quality employee experience.

• Own People Ops systems and tooling (HRIS, payroll, performance tools).
• Ensure compliance with employment laws and regulations.
• Partner with external counsel on immigration and complex employment matters.

• 8-10 years of experience in People Operations, HR, or related roles, within a technology startup or high-growth technology company.
• Broad HR generalist experience across compliance, payroll, benefits, performance management, immigration, recruiting, and employee engagement.
• High judgment, discretion, and ability to operate independently.
• Experience managing visa processes or partnering with immigration counsel preferred.
• Excellent relationship-builder with strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Organized, proactive, and comfortable juggling multiple priorities.
• Strong knowledge of employment law and HR best practices.
• Bonus: holds general HR compliance and employment law certifications.
• Requires 5 days/week in-office
• Competitive stock options/equity programs.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) plan.
• Visa sponsorship and green card support for qualified candidates.
• Lunches and dinners, a fully stocked kitchen, and regular team-building events.