Benefits Manager, Astera Labs

• The ideal candidate brings a global mindset, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is passionate about building benefits programs that support our rapidly scaling workforce across the US, Canada, Asia, and EMEA
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• 10+ years of progressive experience in benefits administration and strategy
• Strong knowledge of US benefits regulations and compliance requirements (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA)
• Demonstrated experience managing 401(k) plans, including compliance testing, vendor oversight, and employee education
• Hands-on experience administering PTO programs across multiple states, with working knowledge of California leave laws
• Experience managing relationships with benefits brokers, carriers, and vendors
• Proficiency with HRIS and benefits administration platforms
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insights

Desirable

• Astera Labs is seeking a strategic and knowledgeable Benefits Manager to join our Human Resources team in San Jose, California
• As we continue our hyper-growth trajectory as a leader in AI infrastructure connectivity, this role will be instrumental in designing, managing, and optimizing our global benefits programs that attract and retain world-class talent
• This is a high-impact position that goes beyond day-to-day benefits administration
• You'll serve as a strategic partner to HR leadership, analyzing market trends, ensuring compliance across multiple geographies, and driving initiatives that enhance the employee experience
• Develop and execute a comprehensive global benefits strategy aligned with Astera Labs' growth objectives and talent acquisition goals
• Evaluate and benchmark benefits offerings against industry standards and competitors to ensure market competitiveness
• Lead annual benefits renewal processes, including vendor negotiations and plan design recommendations
• Drive innovation in benefits offerings to support employee wellbeing and position Astera Labs as an employer of choice
• Oversee end-to-end coordination of benefits programs across all operating regions, including the Canada, Asia, and EMEA, ensuring consistency, equity, and local compliance
• Serve as the primary point of contact for international benefits brokers, third-party administrators, and in-country HR partners
• Harmonize benefit plan designs across geographies while accommodating regional statutory requirements and cultural expectations
• Maintain a centralized benefits governance framework to ensure transparency, auditability, and scalability across all regions
• Manage the full lifecycle of the company's 401(k) plan, including plan design, vendor management, compliance testing, and annual reporting (Form 5500)
• Partner with the 401(k) plan administrator and investment advisors to ensure the plan remains competitive, compliant, and aligned with employee financial wellness goals
• Oversee employer match programs, vesting schedules, and plan amendments in coordination with Finance and Legal
• Ensure compliance with ERISA, IRS regulations, and Department of Labor requirements; manage plan audits and non-discrimination testing
• Develop and deliver financial literacy and retirement readiness education to help employees maximize their retirement benefits
• Evaluate and expand retirement offerings for international employees, including country-specific pension and provident fund programs
• Design, administer, and continuously improve the company's PTO programs, including vacation, sick leave, holidays, parental leave, and other leave of absence policies
• Ensure PTO policies comply with federal, state, and local regulations across all jurisdictions where Astera Labs operates (including California-specific requirements)
• Partner with Payroll and HRIS teams to ensure accurate PTO accrual, tracking, and reporting
• Benchmark PTO offerings against industry peers to maintain competitiveness and support talent attraction and retention
• Develop clear, accessible PTO communications and manager guides to promote consistent policy application across the organization
• Monitor PTO utilization trends and provide data-driven recommendations to HR leadership to support employee wellbeing and workforce planning
• Manage day-to-day administration of health, welfare, retirement, and wellness programs across multiple countries
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and international regulations (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and country-specific requirements)
• Partner with external brokers, vendors, and legal counsel to navigate complex regulatory landscapes
• Develop and maintain benefits policies and procedures to support global scalability
• Analyze benefits utilization data, cost trends, and employee feedback to inform strategic decisions and optimize program ROI
• Develop and deliver clear, engaging benefits communications and educational resources for employees
• Lead open enrollment planning and execution, ensuring a seamless employee experience
• Present benefits insights and recommendations to senior leadership
• Collaborate with Finance, Legal, and Payroll teams to ensure accurate benefits accounting and reporting
• Partner with Talent Acquisition to position benefits as a competitive advantage in recruiting top talent
• Support M&A activities and international expansion by assessing and integrating benefits programs