People Operations Lead

About Us
Symbolica is an AI research lab pioneering the application of category theory to enable logical reasoning in machines.

We’re a well-resourced, nimble team of experts on a mission to bridge the gap between theoretical mathematics and cutting-edge technologies, creating symbolic reasoning models that think like humans – precise, logical, and interpretable. While others focus on scaling data-hungry neural networks, we’re building AI that understands the structures of thought, not just patterns in data.

Our approach combines rigorous research with fast-paced, results-driven execution. We’re reimagining the very foundations of intelligence while simultaneously developing product-focused machine learning models in a tight feedback loop, where research fuels application.

Founded in 2022, we’ve raised over $30M from leading Silicon Valley investors, including Khosla Ventures, General Catalyst, Abstract Ventures, and Day One Ventures, to push the boundaries of applying formal mathematics and logic to machine learning.

Our vision is to create AI systems that transform industries, empowering machines to solve humanity’s most complex challenges with precision and insight. Join us to redefine the future of AI by turning groundbreaking ideas into reality.

About this role

You will own core People Operations for Symbolica across the US and internationally, ensuring payroll, HR compliance, and employee lifecycle processes run cleanly and predictably. This is a hands-on operator role based in Dallas with international exposure, responsible for day-to-day execution plus building lightweight systems for performance management, manager enablement, etc. You will be the reliable point of accountability for current and former employee needs, balancing speed, discretion, efficiency, and rigorous compliance.

📍 This is an onsite role based in our SF office (345 California St).

Your focus

• Own payroll operations and administration across the US and UK and abroad: inputs, changes, audits, benefits, coordination with providers, and accurate, on-time execution.

• Run HR compliance and records: contracts and amendments, policy maintenance, required postings and documentation, and clean employee files for audits and disputes.

• Manage the full employee lifecycle: onboarding, benefits coordination, leaves, changes, performance cycles, and more with tight, consistent process.

• Support performance and manager workflows: cycle planning, compensation, calibration logistics, documentation standards, and tooling that makes expectations and feedback consistent.

• Handle employee relations and former-employee matters: references, verification letters, exit documentation, final pay coordination, and sensitive issues with discretion and clear escalation.

About you

• 3+ years in People Ops or HR operations at a fast-moving company, with direct ownership of payroll, compliance, and employee lifecycle workflows.

• Practical UK employment experience, in addition to US: familiarity with UK contracts and HR processes, coordination with UK payroll and HR advisors, and comfort operating across jurisdictions.

• Detail-oriented and process-driven: you build simple systems that reduce errors, improve manager experience, and stand up to scrutiny.

• High integrity and calm judgment: you handle sensitive employee topics discreetly, document carefully, and escalate early with clear options.

• Strong operator mindset: you work well with external providers and counsel, keep stakeholders aligned, and drive issues to closure without drama.

We offer competitive compensation, including an attractive equity package, with salary and equity levels aligned to your experience and expertise.

Symbolica is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, gender, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.