Senior People Generalist

Who is Optera?

We build software to help the world’s largest companies stop climate change. Our market-leading products provide companies with the tools and insight they need to reduce the environmental impacts of their businesses, supply chains, and products. We are backed by some of the most respected US-based venture capital firms and have a robust client list, including leading Fortune 500 companies such as Dell, Cisco, HPE, Williams-Sonoma, and Target.

What problem are we solving?

In short, Optera is the data solution to stop climate change. Major corporations are the largest source of carbon emissions. Across the globe, companies are responding to pressure to address climate change by setting goals to aggressively reduce emissions by 2050. Our software enables corporate teams to collect, manage, and analyze emissions data across their operations, supply chain, and products, all with the aim of achieving their goals and halting Climate Change.

Why work at Optera?

Our team dedicates our skills, talents, and time to make the world a more sustainable place for future generations. We have a collaborative and dynamic culture where everyone plays a critical role and has room to learn and grow. Balance between work and life is key to our success, and we provide our teammates the flexibility, space, and support to thrive personally and professionally.

Why this opportunity? 

Optera is growing faster than ever and we are rapidly expanding our market leading product and services. The Senior People Generalist will join the People team in supporting new and existing employees while preparing for continued growth of the organization. This individual will play a key role in ensuring Optera maintains its values driven and people-first culture. Join us on our journey to deliver the best sustainability management software in the world.

The Role and Responsibilities 

Employee Lifecycle & Engagement

• Manage and continuously improve the employee HR lifecycle including recruitment/hiring, onboarding, performance reviews, benefits, visa applications/renewals, promotions, and offboarding.
• Assist departments in hiring a diverse workforce through job postings and recruitment, management of Optera’s ATS, and supporting managers throughout the hiring process. 
• Manage employee engagement - including feedback, milestone celebrations, and events. Identify trends and share findings with Optera’s leadership, collaborating to develop action plans for improvement.  

Payroll, Benefits, and Compliance

• Ensure all employee documentation is maintained and kept up to date and that Optera complies with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations. 
• Collaborate with the finance team and payroll contractor(s ) and/or EORs to ensure payroll is correctly submitted for each pay period, state registrations are filed, and issues are resolved in a timely manner. 
• Serve as the first point of contact to assist employees with questions regarding benefits, systems, company policies, and leave.
• Lead annual review of employee handbook and collaborate with department lead on additional policy creation or updates as needed. 
• Represent the People team on the ISMS committee and support security certifications through evidence gathering and external audits as well as any additional HR compliance audits as necessary.

General

• Act as a trusted partner to managers, providing guidance and support on HR-related issues, including talent management, performance improvement, disciplinary matters, and employee engagement. 
• Research, learn, and share best practices and ideas for improvement, for the People team or Optera as a whole, with a focus on continuously strengthening our JEDI principles (justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion).
• Act as liaison to external contractors and vendors (ex: IT, benefits, etc.), ensuring vendor work stays within budget and is completed in an effective manner.

Your qualities

• Dedication to building and maintaining a supportive, collaborative, and fun work environment.
• Commitment to incorporating inclusion and diversity into all aspects of your work.  
• Good communicator who is able to empathetically connect with colleagues of all levels.
• High level of discretion and sensitivity when handling confidential information. 
• Commitment to upholding strong values and principles in the workplace.
• Ability to learn new systems quickly and seek out opportunities for efficiency

Your experience/qualifications

• Prior experience in a human resource related role.
• Proficiency in HRIS, payroll, and other HR  related systems. 
• Understanding of human resource compliance and experience implementing best practices. 
• Excellence in creating a welcoming and efficient onboarding and orientation for new employees. 
• Benefit management know-how, working externally with providers and explaining options internally to team members.
• Excellent follow-through skills  with a high  attention to detail.
• Proven ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously and flexibility to adapt  in a rapidly-changing environment.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion 

Optera is committed to creating a diverse environment that is safe and welcoming to all. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We take this very seriously and expect that you do too. 

Benefits 

• Unrestricted PTO and flexible work schedule
• Recharge Fridays: Every other Friday off
• Health insurance including dental and vision
• Short and Long term Disability Insurance
• 16 weeks maternity/paternity leave (12 weeks paid)
• Wellness budget
• Monthly Wifi Stipend
• Budget for home/office workstation
• Professional development budget
• 401k with 4% company match and ESG investment options 
• Company-wide Bonus program 
• Colorado Eco-pass (regional bus pass)

Location: remote (US and Canada) with optional office in Boulder, Colorado

Position: Full-time

Salary: $78,000 - $91,000 plus bonus and option for equity