Technical Program Manager, Central Operations

Handshake is building the career network for the AI economy. Our three-sided marketplace connects 18 million students and alumni, 1,500+ academic institutions across the U.S. and Europe, and 1 million employers to power how the next generation explores careers, builds skills, and gets hired.

Handshake AI is a human data labeling business that leverages the scale of the largest early career network. We work directly with the world’s leading AI research labs to build a new generation of human data products. From PhDs in physics to undergrads fluent in LLMs, Handshake AI is the trusted partner for domain-specific data and evaluation at scale.

This is a unique opportunity to join a fast-growing team shaping the future of AI through better data, better tools, and better systems—for experts, by experts.

Now’s a great time to join Handshake. Here’s why:

• Leading the AI Career Revolution: Be part of the team redefining work in the AI economy for millions worldwide.

• Proven Market Demand: Deep employer partnerships across Fortune 500s and the world’s leading AI research labs.

• World-Class Team: Leadership from Scale AI, Meta, xAI, Notion, Coinbase, and Palantir, just to name a few.

• Capitalized & Scaling: $3.5B valuation from top investors including Kleiner Perkins, True Ventures, Notable Capital, and more.

The Technical Program Manager (TPM), Central Operations will be an individual contributor responsible for driving the execution of operational programs across key central ops functions, including Trust & Safety, Pay Operations, Allocation, and Contractor Management. This role is highly hands-on and focused on designing, improving, and scaling operational processes through strong program management, technical fluency, and data-driven decision making.

The TPM will work closely with partners in Legal, Finance, Product, Engineering, Analytics, and Delivery to translate business and operational needs into clear requirements, execution plans, and measurable outcomes. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, comfortable working deeply within operational workflows, and energized by turning complex, cross-functional problems into scalable solution

• Experience in technical program management, operations, or a similar IC role supporting cross-functional initiatives.

• Strong SQL and data analysis skills; ability to independently investigate operational data and surface actionable insights.

• Proven ability to manage multiple programs or workstreams simultaneously with strong attention to detail.

• Comfort working “in the weeds” of operational workflows and translating messy real-world processes into structured plans.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, especially in documenting requirements and communicating status, risks, and tradeoffs.

• Ability to influence cross-functional partners and drive progress without formal authority.

• A bias toward execution and continuous improvement.

Handshake delivers benefits that help you feel supported—and thrive at work and in life.

The below benefits are for full-time US employees.

🎯 Ownership: Equity in a fast-growing company

💰 Financial Wellness: 401(k) match, competitive compensation, financial coaching

🍼 Family Support: Paid parental leave, fertility benefits, parental coaching

💝 Wellbeing: Medical, dental, and vision, mental health support, wellness stipend

📚 Growth: Learning stipend, ongoing development

💻 Remote & Office: Internet, commuting, and free lunch/gym in our SF office

🏝 Time Off: Flexible PTO, 15 holidays + 2 flex days

🤝 Connection: Team outings & referral bonuses

Explore our mission, values, and comprehensive US benefits at joinhandshake.com/careers.