HR Benefits Specialist (Contract)

Astronomer empowers data teams to bring mission-critical software, analytics, and AI to life and is the company behind Astro, the industry-leading unified DataOps platform powered by Apache Airflow®. Astro accelerates building reliable data products that unlock insights, unleash AI value, and powers data-driven applications. Trusted by more than 800 of the world's leading enterprises, Astronomer lets businesses do more with their data. To learn more, visit www.astronomer.io.About this role:Astronomer is seeking an experienced HR Benefits Specialist to provide full coverage during a critical 4–5 month period. This role ensures continuity across global HR operations, benefits administration, compliance, and employee lifecycle processes.This is a hands-on, execution-focused role responsible for maintaining compliance, leading time-sensitive initiatives (including U.S. Open Enrollment and the 401(k) audit), and ensuring day-to-day HR operations in Workday run smoothly and accurately.This role is remote but requires availability during Eastern Time (EST) business hours to effectively support global teams and cross-functional partners.The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable operating independently in a fast-paced, global environment.What you get to do:Own day-to-day HR operations across the U.S., UK, and global EOR populationsMaintain accurate employee data in Workday and ensure proper documentationIdentify and implement improvements to HR processes and system configurationsManage the HR ticketing system and respond to employee inquiriesAdminister leave of absence programs (FMLA, parental leave, disability, and statutory leaves)Benefits Administration (U.S.)Administer health, welfare, and retirement benefit programsLead U.S. Open Enrollment, including broker/vendor coordination, renewals, employee communications, and system setupSupport the annual 401(k) audit in partnership with Finance and external auditorsBenefits Administration (UK)Partner with UK providers to administer benefits and pension programsManage the Annual Pension & Salary Exchange Update Period, including communications and coordinationCompliance & OperationsConduct annual employee handbook review and manage acknowledgment processOversee compliance training rollout and track completionEnsure compliance with U.S., UK, and applicable global employment lawsMaintain audit-ready documentation and reportingHR Systems & ReportingProcess employee changes and support payroll cycles in partnership with financeMaintain data integrity in Workday and run standard People reportsIdentify and address operational inefficiencies where feasibleWhat you bring to the role:2–3 years of experience in People Operations or HRStrong experience with U.S. benefits administration and leave managementExperience supporting 401(k) audits and Form 5500 filingsExperience running full-cycle Open Enrollment processesFamiliarity with UK pension administrationWorking knowledge of WorkdayStrong understanding of U.S. employment laws and compliance requirementsHigh attention to detail with strong organizational and project management skillsAbility to work independently in a remote, fast-paced environmentBonus points if you have:Experience in a high-growth or startup environmentExperience supporting global or EOR populationsExperience identifying and implementing process improvements within HR systemsThis is a contract role with an hourly rate of $35 per hour.#LI-RemoteAt Astronomer, we value diversity. We are an equal opportunity employer: we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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