HR Benefits Specialist, Astronomer

• The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable operating independently in a fast-paced, global environment
• 2–3 years of experience in People Operations or HR
• Strong experience with U.S. benefits administration and leave management
• Experience supporting 401(k) audits and Form 5500 filings
• Experience running full-cycle Open Enrollment processes
• Familiarity with UK pension administration
• Working knowledge of Workday
• Strong understanding of U.S. employment laws and compliance requirements
• High attention to detail with strong organizational and project management skills
• Ability to work independently in a remote, fast-paced environment

Desirable

• Astronomer is seeking an experienced HR Benefits Specialist to provide full coverage during a critical 4–5 month period
• This role ensures continuity across global HR operations, benefits administration, compliance, and employee lifecycle processes
• This is a hands-on, execution-focused role responsible for maintaining compliance, leading time-sensitive initiatives (including U.S. Open Enrollment and the 401(k) audit), and ensuring day-to-day HR operations in Workday run smoothly and accurately
• Own day-to-day HR operations across the U.S., UK, and global EOR populations
• Maintain accurate employee data in Workday and ensure proper documentation
• Identify and implement improvements to HR processes and system configurations
• Manage the HR ticketing system and respond to employee inquiries
• Administer leave of absence programs (FMLA, parental leave, disability, and statutory leaves)
• Administer health, welfare, and retirement benefit programs
• Lead U.S. Open Enrollment, including broker/vendor coordination, renewals, employee communications, and system setup
• Support the annual 401(k) audit in partnership with Finance and external auditors
• Partner with UK providers to administer benefits and pension programs
• Manage the Annual Pension & Salary Exchange Update Period, including communications and coordination
• Conduct annual employee handbook review and manage acknowledgment process
• Oversee compliance training rollout and track completion
• Ensure compliance with U.S., UK, and applicable global employment laws
• Maintain audit-ready documentation and reporting
• Process employee changes and support payroll cycles in partnership with finance
• Maintain data integrity in Workday and run standard People reports
• Identify and address operational inefficiencies where feasible