Head of People

We are looking for an experienced Head of People to lead and strengthen the HR function for a growing organization in San Ramon, California. This Long-term Contract opportunity is ideal for a hands-on leader who can work independently, bring structure to a fast-moving environment, and build practical people programs that support continued growth. The role will serve as a key partner to senior leadership, guiding people strategy while ensuring strong compliance, employee support, and operational consistency across a multi-state workforce.

Responsibilities:

• Shape and implement the U.S. people strategy in close collaboration with executive leadership to support business goals and workforce growth.
• Direct core human resources operations, including employee relations, benefits coordination, compensation practices, performance programs, and payroll oversight.
• Create and improve HR policies, workflows, and foundational processes that can scale effectively in a rapidly evolving startup setting.
• Ensure adherence to employment regulations across multiple states, with particular attention to California labor requirements and non-exempt employee practices.
• Lead, coach, and support the current recruiting and HR management function so hiring activity aligns with broader talent and people priorities.
• Work closely with Finance to manage compensation planning, commission frameworks, payroll processes, and benefits administration.
• Provide HR partnership to field and operational teams across various locations, helping address workforce needs in a practical and timely manner.
• Analyze people data and workforce trends to identify opportunities, inform decisions, and drive ongoing organizational improvement.
• Support HR administration connected to platforms such as TriNet, Gusto, HiBob, Justworks, or BambooHR when needed for effective people operations.
• 15+ years of progressive human resources experience, including leadership responsibility for broad HR functions.
• Proven success building or leading an HR department within a small, high-growth startup or similarly fast-paced environment.
• Strong knowledge of California employment law and experience supporting compliance across multiple states.
• Demonstrated background in employee relations, HR administration, compensation and benefits, and compliance management.
• Ability to operate independently, solve problems in ambiguous situations, and establish structure where processes are still developing.
• Experience partnering with executive teams to translate business priorities into effective people strategies.
• Spanish language skills are preferred.
• Industry experience in agriculture, agri-tech, robotics, manufacturing, climate tech, or H-2A/agricultural immigration is preferred.