Jobs · Human Resources · California

2026 Total Rewards/People Operations Specialist - Early Career Rotation Program

Anduril Industries · Costa Mesa, CA · 1 mo ago
Human Resources$59k–$80k/yrFull-time

About the role

The Anduril People team is looking for emerging leaders to join its Rotational Program in Costa Mesa, CA. In this role, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of how Anduril's People team works to attract, develop, and support the company's most critical asset — its people. Over 18 months, you'll rotate across core People functions, building a foundational knowledge base and critical skills that will be a springboard for your career in human resources.

What You'll Do (Both Tracks)

  • Rotate through three key People teams over 18 months (~6 months each). You'll support core People processes, contribute to HR system data integrity, and provide analyses and support that enhance the employee experience.
  • Translate complex People data into actionable insights through reports, dashboards, and presentations. You'll present findings in regular team syncs and contribute to strategic HR planning, making recommendations that drive improvements in equity, program utilization, and operational efficiency. You'll develop your communication skills by learning to convey the "so what" behind HR metrics to both People and non-People stakeholders.
  • Join a cohort of high-potential early-career professionals with access to structured mentorship from People leaders (e.g., monthly 1:1s) and dedicated on-the-job skill-building workshops (e.g., compensation analysis, benefits compliance, HRIS systems, employee relations).
  • Drive measurable improvements in day-to-day People operations, collaborating on cross-functional projects with Finance, Legal, Payroll, and business teams. Through this, you'll establish a deep understanding of how People partners across the business to enable mission success.
  • Successfully complete the 18-month program through demonstrated HR acumen, stakeholder collaboration, and project delivery, while receiving regular feedback. Program participants are expected to graduate into full-time roles and hit the ground running within the People team, while providing continuity and mentorship for our next cohort of emerging leaders.

Required Qualifications (Both Tracks)

  • Recent or upcoming graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Psychology, Sociology, Communications, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
  • Demonstrated strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate data and trends into insights.
  • High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint) or Google Workspace.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a natural ability to collaborate and build relationships in a fast-paced team environment.
  • A positive attitude, a passion for learning, and the ability to thrive in a constantly evolving environment.
  • High level of integrity and discretion when handling confidential information.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior internship experience in HR, compensation, benefits, or People Operations.
  • Recent graduate with a graduation date ranging from December 2025–May 2026.
  • Demonstrated leadership potential through extracurricular activities, academic projects, or work experience.
  • Interest in technology and automation, with an eagerness to learn HRIS systems (experience with Rippling is a plus).

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