Benefits Manager

Astera Labs•San Jose, CA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Astera Labs is seeking a strategic and knowledgeable Benefits Manager to join our Human Resources team in San Jose, California. As we continue our hyper-growth trajectory as a leader in AI infrastructure connectivity, this role will be instrumental in designing, managing, and optimizing our global benefits programs that attract and retain world-class talent. This is a high-impact position that goes beyond day-to-day benefits administration. You'll serve as a strategic partner to HR leadership, analyzing market trends, ensuring compliance across multiple geographies, and driving initiatives that enhance the employee experience. The ideal candidate brings a global mindset, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is passionate about building benefits programs that support our rapidly scaling workforce across the US, Canada, Asia, and EMEA.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
10+ years of progressive experience in benefits administration and strategy
Strong knowledge of US benefits regulations and compliance requirements (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA)
Demonstrated experience managing 401(k) plans, including compliance testing, vendor oversight, and employee education
Hands-on experience administering PTO programs across multiple states, with working knowledge of California leave laws
Experience managing relationships with benefits brokers, carriers, and vendors
Proficiency with HRIS and benefits administration platforms
Excellent analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insights

Nice To Haves

Experience coordinating global benefits across multiple countries, including international retirement and leave programs
Experience in high-growth technology or semiconductor companies
Strong project management skills with ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
Exceptional communication and presentation skills with ability to influence stakeholders at all levels

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a comprehensive global benefits strategy aligned with Astera Labs' growth objectives and talent acquisition goals
Evaluate and benchmark benefits offerings against industry standards and competitors to ensure market competitiveness
Lead annual benefits renewal processes, including vendor negotiations and plan design recommendations
Drive innovation in benefits offerings to support employee wellbeing and position Astera Labs as an employer of choice
Oversee end-to-end coordination of benefits programs across all operating regions, including the Canada, Asia, and EMEA, ensuring consistency, equity, and local compliance
Serve as the primary point of contact for international benefits brokers, third-party administrators, and in-country HR partners
Harmonize benefit plan designs across geographies while accommodating regional statutory requirements and cultural expectations
Maintain a centralized benefits governance framework to ensure transparency, auditability, and scalability across all regions
Manage the full lifecycle of the company's 401(k) plan, including plan design, vendor management, compliance testing, and annual reporting (Form 5500)
Partner with the 401(k) plan administrator and investment advisors to ensure the plan remains competitive, compliant, and aligned with employee financial wellness goals
Oversee employer match programs, vesting schedules, and plan amendments in coordination with Finance and Legal
Ensure compliance with ERISA, IRS regulations, and Department of Labor requirements; manage plan audits and non-discrimination testing
Develop and deliver financial literacy and retirement readiness education to help employees maximize their retirement benefits
Evaluate and expand retirement offerings for international employees, including country-specific pension and provident fund programs
Design, administer, and continuously improve the company's PTO programs, including vacation, sick leave, holidays, parental leave, and other leave of absence policies
Ensure PTO policies comply with federal, state, and local regulations across all jurisdictions where Astera Labs operates (including California-specific requirements)
Partner with Payroll and HRIS teams to ensure accurate PTO accrual, tracking, and reporting
Benchmark PTO offerings against industry peers to maintain competitiveness and support talent attraction and retention
Develop clear, accessible PTO communications and manager guides to promote consistent policy application across the organization
Monitor PTO utilization trends and provide data-driven recommendations to HR leadership to support employee wellbeing and workforce planning
Manage day-to-day administration of health, welfare, retirement, and wellness programs across multiple countries
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and international regulations (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and country-specific requirements)
Partner with external brokers, vendors, and legal counsel to navigate complex regulatory landscapes
Develop and maintain benefits policies and procedures to support global scalability
Analyze benefits utilization data, cost trends, and employee feedback to inform strategic decisions and optimize program ROI
Develop and deliver clear, engaging benefits communications and educational resources for employees
Lead open enrollment planning and execution, ensuring a seamless employee experience
Present benefits insights and recommendations to senior leadership
Collaborate with Finance, Legal, and Payroll teams to ensure accurate benefits accounting and reporting
Partner with Talent Acquisition to position benefits as a competitive advantage in recruiting top talent
Support M&A activities and international expansion by assessing and integrating benefits programs