People Operations Specialist - Germany
Berlin
People 👥 – Operations /
Full-time /
Hybrid
Help us use technology to make a big green dent in the universe!
Kraken powers some of the most innovative global developments in energy.
We’re a technology company focused on creating a smart, sustainable energy system. From optimising renewable generation, creating a more intelligent grid and enabling utilities to provide excellent customer experiences, our operating system for energy is transforming the industry around the world in a way that benefits everyone.
It’s a really exciting time in energy. Help us make a real impact on shaping a better, more sustainable future.
Kraken Customer
What we do: build the most AI-driven, innovative, forward-thinking platform for energy management. From optimizing resources to delivering cost-effective, exceptional customer experiences through advanced Customer Information Systems (CIS), billing, meter data management, CRM, and AI-driven communications, Kraken is powering the next wave of innovation in the energy industry.
Why we do it: future energy will not look like energy as we know it today. We need to not just think about our future, but build for it. Now.
Based in our Berlin office and working closely with the Kraken teams across the globe, you'll play a critical role in supporting people across Germany and the Netherlands. You’ll be part of our global People Operations team - owning local processes, guiding managers, supporting employees, and helping to build a seamless, scalable People experience as we grow.
What you'll do
- Own the onboarding experience - coordinating new starters, contracts, equipment and background checks
- Manage people admin and processes throughout the employee lifecycle - from contractual changes to exits and everything in betweenSupport with employee cases - advising and coaching managers and team members on a range of people topics in a thoughtful, people-first way
- Be a key partner to managers in a manager-led organisation, ensuring they have the local knowledge and support they need
- Be the expert in the Global People Operations Team for Germany and the Netherlands, owning processes, legislation knowledge, and best practices for both countries
- Manage visa processes and right-to-work checks for Germany & the Netherlands
- Ensure compliance with German employment legislation, working with legal and external partners when needed
- Work closely with the Global People Operations Team to ensure our People Systems (Hibob, OfficeVibe etc.) are running smoothly in all countries and aligned globallyGet involved in various exciting people projects
- Support the Global People Operations team with queries and muck in when there are high volume queries
- Be the go-to person for our office in Rotterdam and support staff across the Netherlands, with the expectation that you will take regular trips there when needed and spend some initial time there for a handover
- Occasional travel to the UK HQ to connect with the wider People team
About you
- You're proactive, self-sufficient and a natural problem solver, and looking to grow your career in People Operations
- You're agile, able to prioritise effectively, and always up for a challenge
- You work with precision, care, and a strong sense of discretion
- You're comfortable advising on sensitive people cases and navigating nuanced situations with empathy and clarity
- You’re confident in employment law and people processes in Germany (and ideally familiar with Dutch practices too, but not essential)
- You have experience supporting visa applications and international employee mobility
- You love People Tech and working in data-driven People teams - you're excited about using tools and data to make things better
- You love simplifying complexity and improving how things work
- You’re a team player who enjoys collaborating across borders, time zones, and functions
- Fluent German and English is a must-have (seriously, it’s essential)
- You’ve managed people admin across multiple European countries and are familiar with different regulations and practices
- You’ve got solid expertise in managing HRIS systems
- And most importantly, you're passionate about contributing to solving the climate challenge
If this sounds like you then we'd love to hear from you.
Are you ready for a career with us? We want to ensure you have all the tools and environment you need to unleash your potential. Need any specific accommodations? Whether you require specific accommodations or have a unique preference, let us know, and we'll do what we can to customise your interview process for comfort and maximum magic!
Studies have shown that some groups of people, like women, are less likely to apply to a role unless they meet 100% of the job requirements. Whoever you are, if you like one of our jobs, we encourage you to apply as you might just be the candidate we hire. Across Octopus, we're looking for genuinely decent people who are honest and empathetic. Our people are our strongest asset and the unique skills and perspectives people bring to the team are the driving force of our success. As an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute. Our commitment is to provide equal opportunities, an inclusive work environment, and fairness for everyone.
