People Operations Coordinator

About Schemata

Schemata is an innovative spatial intelligence company leveraging artificial intelligence for physical world applications. Their main product is a virtual training platform designed for frontline workers. Using proprietary technology, 2D images are rapidly transformed into photorealistic 3D models, and AI-driven scene understanding automatically creates training content, reducing training duration and enhancing operational preparedness. The company currently partners with multiple Department of War branches and aims to expand into commercial sectors. Schemata is venture-backed by notable firms including a16z.

Role Overview

As the inaugural People Operations Coordinator, you will own essential administrative tasks that ensure smooth company operations. This role encompasses a broad range of responsibilities including HR compliance, recruitment assistance, executive support, and general operations for a growing team of approximately 15 members. It offers hands-on experience and the chance to establish foundational people and operations processes within an early-stage defense technology firm.

Primary Responsibilities

• Manage daily HR functions such as onboarding, offboarding, maintaining employee records, PTO tracking, and overseeing benefits enrollment.
• Oversee payroll and benefits administration through platforms like Rippling and Human Interest 401(k), acting as employee liaison for related inquiries.
• Maintain and enhance HR policies, employee handbook, and ensure compliance with multi-state employment laws.
• Coordinate performance review cycles, conduct feedback surveys, and support other people-related programs.
• Support recruitment by assisting in job postings, candidate sourcing, interview scheduling, communication, managing offer letters, background checks, and onboarding processes.
• Deliver direct administrative assistance to executives including calendar management, travel arrangements, expense reports, and meeting coordination, handling sensitive data with discretion.
• Organize and facilitate internal team events across Washington DC and San Francisco offices.
• Handle office logistics including vendor relations, supply management, facilities coordination, and miscellaneous operational projects.
• Develop systems and documentation to improve organizational efficiency as the company grows.

Candidate Profile

Essential qualifications:

• Minimum two years of experience in people operations, HR, office management, operations, or executive support roles.
• Fundamental knowledge of HR processes such as payroll, benefits, onboarding, and employment compliance.
• Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational capabilities to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• High level of discretion in handling confidential information.
• Proactive attitude with willingness to assume responsibility beyond formal role boundaries.
• Residency within the Washington DC metro area with ability to work on-site three days per week.

Preferred qualifications:

• Familiarity with tools such as Rippling, Human Interest, and Notion or similar HR and operations software.
• Experience in defense, government contracting, or regulated industries.
• Recruiting coordination or full recruitment cycle experience.
• Potential eligibility for U.S. security clearance (U.S. citizenship may be required for some projects).

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary aligned with experience and qualifications.
• Opportunity to earn meaningful equity in a fast-growing, venture-backed defense tech startup.
• Comprehensive healthcare including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid parental leave.
• High-impact role influencing training technology for military and industrial personnel within a mission-driven, collaborative environment.