People Operations Launch Specialist

Location: New York City Via is on a mission to create public transportation systems that provide far greater access to jobs, healthcare, and education. Our platform serves as the technology backbone for modern transit networks, transforming antiquated and siloed public transportation systems into smart, data-driven, and efficient digital networks. With hundreds of agency partners around the world, Via is recognized as the leading transportation technology and service provider globally. As a People Operations Launch Specialist , you will help launch new Via deployments and take ownership of the People Operations work required to ensure our teams are ready for successful service launches. You will work cross-functionally across the business to bring together the people, processes, and systems required to stand up new operations. This is a fast-paced, highly cross-functional role that combines project management, problem-solving, and operational execution. This role requires a willingness to travel based on the needs of our launches. What You'll Do: Launch new Via services, taking ownership of the People Operations workstreams required to ensure new operations are staffed, supported, and ready to begin service on time and at the highest possible quality, while contributing to the strategic decision-making and entrepreneurial approach required to establish Via operations in new markets Manage comprehensive People Operations launch project plans across multiple concurrent deployments, including key milestones, dependencies, risks, and timelines Coordinate critical workforce readiness activities — hiring and onboarding, payroll and benefits implementation, HR systems, employee documentation, policies, and compliance — collaborating closely with Operations, Expansion, Recruiting, Payroll, Benefits, Legal, IT, and local market teams Serve as a key People Operations partner to local operational leaders and employees throughout the launch process, identifying and resolving complex or time-sensitive issues that could impact workforce readiness or launch timelines, and supporting workforce transitions and employee and labor relations matters — including partnering with union representatives and internal Labor and Legal teams where applicable Provide guidance following service launch to help stabilize new operations, address workforce and operational challenges, and support the transition into steady-state operations Identify opportunities to improve and standardize Via’s launch processes, developing scalable tools, processes, and best practices that can be applied across future deployments Who You Are: Effective at managing multiple complex, time-sensitive projects at once — taking ownership, working independently, and driving stakeholders toward deadlines Highly organized and meticulous, with exceptional attention to detail and follow-through, and an eye for risks and dependencies before they become problems A strong problem solver who is comfortable in ambiguity and builds creative, practical solutions where no playbook exists An excellent communicator who builds strong relationships across employees, operational leaders, cross-functional partners, and senior stakeholders Adaptable and entrepreneurial, moving easily between strategic planning and the details required to keep a launch on track, while continuously improving processes and building scalable solutions 3+ years of relevant experience in People Operations, HR, operations, project/program management, consulting, or another highly cross-functional environment, plus a Bachelor's degree and a record of strong academic and professional achievement Experience supporting operational launches, frontline workforces, employee relations, labor relations, or complex workforce transitions is a plus Compensation and Benefits: Final salary will be determined by the candidate’s experience, knowledge, and skills. Salary reflected does not include equity or variable pay, where applicable Salary Range: $80,000-$100,000 per year Comprehensive health coverage, with low-cost dental and vision plans A 401(k) with a generous company match and vesting Fully paid parental leave for new parents, with extended leave options Additional benefits (mental health, pet insurance, and other wellness perks) 20 days of paid time off (PTO) annually Ready to join the ride? Via is an equal opportunity employer.