Human Resources Business Partner

Lightmatter is redefining what computers and human beings are capable of by delivering a fundamentally new kind of computer that calculates using light. Transistors, the workhorse of modern computers, aren't improving at the rate they once were. To scale AI, companies are building increasingly large and energy-expensive data centers—a path that is neither financially nor environmentally sustainable. By delivering ultra-high performance and energy efficiency, Lightmatter’s compute engine will power rapid advancements in AI while lowering its environmental footprint.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced HR Business Partner to support our growing company, primarily partnering with the Engineering organization. You will collaborate with business leaders, influence the organizational strategy and structure, and help further Lightmatter’s vision & mission. Specifically, you will help us drive employee engagement, build high performing teams and create a meaningful culture. You will think strategically, use data and sound judgement to guide your work, and be comfortable working with senior business leaders.

Success in this position requires the ability to operate in a fast-paced startup environment, outstanding communication skills, self-motivation, sound judgment and the ability to partner with employees across all functions and levels of the company. Your focus on employee engagement and your passion for employee development are critical to Lightmatter’s success and ongoing growth.

Responsibilities

• Coach and mentor people managers and leaders on organizational and people issues, to drive effectiveness and high performance
• Partner with leaders to develop and implement key talent management programs, retention strategies and culture building initiatives
• Consult on organizational design, workforce planning, succession planning, and skills assessment
• Counsel employees and managers on career planning and creating learning and development plans
• Advise managers on handling employee performance issues. Determine necessary actions to ensure fairness, consistency, and legal compliance

• Guide and drive strategies to resolve difficult and/or sensitive workplace matters
• Stay attuned to the pulse of the employee population, advising on risks to employee engagement, morale and performance, recommending solutions and change management efforts as needed
• Facilitate employee engagement surveys across the company, work with leaders to develop action plans, and provide insight on trends
• Conduct compensation benchmarking and analysis to ensure fair and competitive pay practices
• Work with People team to research, implement and manage rewards and recognition programs that support our culture and values
• Champion diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and practices to foster an inclusive work environment
• Partner with Talent Acquisition team to meet recruitment and business objectives
• Become an expert on our internal tools, including our HRIS and performance management system, and harness the data from these to guide business decisions and make improvement recommendations
• Proactively manage communication and resolution related to benefits and payroll matters for employees, in collaboration with People Operations Specialist

• Ensure compliance requirements are met. Provide policy and procedure interpretation, counseling and training for employees and managers
• Help maintain and run a roadmap of company events and team activities that drive employee engagement, learning, with the goal of maintaining an awesome company culture
• Remain aware of company objectives and outcomes, competitive environment, market trends, and developments within functional area. Apply knowledge and provide input to senior management to develop programs that impact functional or company operations

Requirements

• Human Resources professional with 5 - 9 years of experience, with at least 2 years in a HRBP role. Experience at a technology and/or startup company is a plus
• Experience planning, designing, and implementing a comprehensive set of Talent Management initiatives that meet the business objectives of the company
• Bring a human-first approach and a passion for creating an amazing employee experience. Demonstrate the ability to translate that passion into programs that build high engagement and develop employees at all levels
• Build strong relationships built on trust and credibility
• Experience coaching managers and employees at all levels, balancing business and employee needs
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively manage employee communications, facilitate team building, mediate conflict resolution, provide coaching, and guide people through change
• Knowledge of employment laws, compliance requirements, immigration. HR best practices and strong business acumen
• Inspires a culture of innovation, execution, collaboration, accountability, positivity, and fun
• Emotionally intelligent and self-aware, collaborative and supportive

Benefits

• Comprehensive Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• 401k matching
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Generous Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Paid Family Leave
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Flexible, hybrid workplace model
• Stock Option Plan

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