Talent & People Operations Lead

Profluent is an AI-first protein design company. Founded in 2022, we develop deep generative models to design and validate novel, functional proteins to revolutionize biomedicine. Based in Emeryville, CA, we are backed by leading investors including Spark Capital, Insight Partners, Air Street Capital, AIX Ventures, and Convergent Ventures.

We’re looking for a strategic and hands-on Talent & People Operations Lead to own the full recruiting lifecycle and strengthen our people operations as part of the Operations team. You will play a critical role in building Profluent’s team and culture - ensuring we attract, hire, and retain top talent while creating an employee experience that enables people to thrive.

This role will begin with a strong focus on talent acquisition alongside core people operations, with the opportunity to expand into broader ownership across people operations and HR. This is an excellent opportunity to directly shape our team and culture during a pivotal stage of growth.

Responsibilities

• Lead full-cycle recruiting across technical and G&A functions, from sourcing to closing
• Define, lead and execute strategy to ensure we meet the approved hiring plan 
• Partner with hiring managers and leadership to define roles, set hiring strategies, and ensure efficient processes
• Build and maintain a strong candidate pipeline through sourcing, networking, and outreach
• Develop and strengthen Profluent’s employer brand to attract top talent; ensuring postings, candidate experience, and external presence reflect our mission and culture
• Own and improve HR processes, including onboarding, benefits, compliance, and offboarding
• Drive initiatives that enhance employee experience such as team events, onboarding programs, and recognition efforts
• Lead performance management and employee engagement programs
• Collaborate across operations, scientific, and leadership teams to anticipate and address people-related needs
• Act as the primary point of contact for all HR and Ops questions, and effectively triage and escalate as appropriate

Qualifications 

• At least 5 years of experience in dedicated recruiting, with additional experience in people operations, ideally in a high-growth environment
• Proven track record of managing full-cycle recruiting for technical and G&A roles
• Understanding of or a desire to learn HR fundamentals, including compliance and employee relations
• Excellent interpersonal, project management, and communication skills
• Ability to thrive in ambiguity, build structure, and drive outcomes independently
• Ability to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality when handling sensitive business information

Preferences

• Experience in biotech, life sciences, or AI/tech startups
• Familiarity with ATS, HRIS, and other people systems (e.g., Greenhouse, Rippling)
• Exposure to compensation planning and organizational development

What We Offer

• High-growth opportunity with meaningful impact on the future of protein design
• Competitive compensation package with equity participation
• Comprehensive benefits including health/dental/vision insurance
• Generous PTO policy and commitment to work-life balance
• Professional development opportunities in a cutting-edge field at the intersection of AI and biology

Profluent Bio, Inc is an equal opportunity employer promoting diversity and inclusion in the workspace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding), genetic information, taking or requesting statutorily protected leave, or any other basis protected by law.

Work Authorization Requirement

Applicants must have ongoing work authorization in the United States that does not require employer sponsorship. Sponsorship will not be provided now or at any time in the future for this position.

Employment Eligibility Verification

Legal authorization to work in the United States is required. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired must verify their identity and work eligibility and complete the required employment verification form upon hire.