People Operations Generalist

At Sonatus, we’re driving the transformation to AI-enabled software-defined vehicles. Traditional automotive software methods can’t keep pace with consumer expectations shaped by the mobile industry—where features evolve rapidly, update seamlessly, and improve continuously. That’s why leading OEMs trust Sonatus to accelerate this shift. Our technology is already in production across more than 8 million vehicles on the road today and rapidly expanding.

Headquartered in Sunnyvale, CA, with 250+ employees worldwide, Sonatus combines the agility of a fast-growing company with the scale and impact of an established partner. Backed by strong funding and proven by global deployment, we’re solving some of the most interesting and complex challenges in the industry. Join us and help redefine what’s possible as we shape the future of mobility.

The Opportunity

We're looking for a People Operations Generalist to own the programs our workforce relies on most and to be the first point of contact when employees have a question. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys running important processes with care and turning them into something repeatable. The ideal candidate handles confidential information, is comfortable being the go-to resource for employee questions, and is motivated to improve the process rather than simply keep them running.

This is a hybrid role based in our Sunnyvale office, with an expectation to work from the office three days per week (Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday). 

Roles & Responsibilities

• Serve as the first line for employee inquiries, responding promptly and accurately on policies, benefits, leaves, immigration, and general People Ops questions, and escalating as needed
• Own day-to-day immigration case management, coordinating with outside counsel, employees, and hiring managers on new petitions, extensions, transfers, amendments, and permanent residency filings
• Track visa expirations and case milestones, and keep employees and managers informed well ahead of deadlines
• Administer U.S. benefits programs end to end, including enrollments, qualifying life events, terminations, and carrier and broker coordination
• Run annual open enrollment, from plan communications and employee sessions to system setup and post-enrollment audits
• Manage leaves of absence, including FMLA, CFRA, parental leave, and personal; serving as the point of contact for employees from first notice through return to work
• Own the employee onboarding experience, including review and redesign of the program as needed, pre-hire communications, I-9 and employment eligibility verification, and system and records setup
• Lead new hire orientation and continuously refine the content so new employees gain clarity on policies, benefits, and how the company works
• Perform maintenance of employee data and documentation in the HRIS, as well as compliance reporting and audits
• Take on ad hoc People Operations projects and initiatives as priorities shift, supporting programs such as the social/culture committee, employee engagement, or others as assigned

Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of experience in People Operations/Human Resources
• Working knowledge of U.S. employment-related compliance, leaves of absence, I-9 requirements, and benefits
• Strong operational mindset with the ability to build structure, improve processes, and drive execution
• Ability to operate effectively in high-growth, high-ambiguity environments with changing priorities and evolving business needs
• Result-oriented and proactive approach — someone who takes ownership, moves quickly, makes sound decisions with imperfect information, and drives change
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to engage employees across the organization

Sunnyvale HQ Benefits & Perks Offered:

• Health care plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Flexible and Dependent Care Expense program
• Retirement plan (401k)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Unlimited paid time off per year, 14+ paid holidays
• Hybrid office work arrangement
• Complimentary lunches, snacks, and beverages during on-site working days
• Wellness benefit allowance
• Phone & Internet reimbursement
• Computer Accessory Allowance