Job Description - People Operations Manager

About Somite.ai

Somite.ai is a venture-backed company aiming to become the OpenAI of stem cell biology, developing AI foundation models for human stem cells to drive novel cell therapies at scale.

We take a full-stack approach - generating data at 1,000x lower cost, training large-scale models with unmatched predictive power, and using these models to discover, refine, and optimize high-impact applications in cell therapy.

Our founding team includes repeat AI entrepreneur Dr. Micha Breakstone (Chorus.ai, acquired for $575M), the Head of the Fundamental AI Group at MIT (pioneered the foundational research on scaling laws), and three Harvard Medical School professors and National Academy of Sciences/Medicine members, including the Chair of the Genetics Department at HMS. Based in Boston and launching operations in January 2024, Somite has raised close to $60M to date (Forbes).

Location: Boston, MA (onsite, full-time)

Reports to: SVP Operations

About the Role:

We’re looking for a flexible, hands-on HR professional who thrives in a fast-paced, high-growth startup environment. You’ll be the go-to person for all things people-related, working closely with leadership to attract top talent, support our growing team, and build the HR foundation for the years ahead.

Responsibilities:

• Recruiting & Hiring: Partner with managers to define roles, source candidates, run interviews, and manage offers.

• Onboarding & Offboarding: Deliver a smooth, professional experience for all new hires and departures.

• Performance Reviews: Lead annual and mid-year review processes and support managers with feedback best practices.

• Compliance: Ensure policies, processes, and employee documentation meet Massachusetts and federal requirements.

• Benefits & Compensation: Administer benefits, assist with payroll changes, and support compensation benchmarking.

• Employee Engagement: Plan team events, foster a positive workplace culture, and act as a trusted resource for employees.

• HR Systems & Data: Manage HR tools, maintain accurate records, and report on HR metrics to leadership.

Qualifications:

• 4-6 years of HR experience, ideally in life sciences, AI, biotech, and/or a high-growth startup.

• Broad HR skill set - comfortable handling everything from hiring to compliance.

• Knowledge of Massachusetts and federal employment law.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and discretion when handling sensitive matters.

• Comfortable switching between strategic projects and day-to-day tasks.

• Boston-based (or willing to relocate) and excited to be in-office full time.

Benefits:

• Build the HR function from the ground up in a collaborative, high-impact role.

• Work alongside a talented and passionate team at the forefront of AI and cellular biology.

• Contribute to the development of groundbreaking therapies that address significant unmet medical needs.

• Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package, including flexible work options.

Join us and help us unlock the full potential of AI for the benefit of human health!

Somite.ai’s Core Values

1. We show up - fully accountable, all-in, doing whatever it takes.

2. We act with urgency - swift, decisive, proactive.

3. We support one another - collaborative, helpful, empathetic.