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Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience Careers at Handshake - San Francisco, California | Apply Now!

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Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience Careers at Handshake - San Francisco, California | Apply Now!

full-timePosted: Jan 20, 2026

Job Description

Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience - Handshake AI

Role Overview

As the Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience at Handshake AI, you will be at the forefront of shaping the future of AI talent development. This pivotal role involves designing, operating, and continuously improving a dedicated Fellow program for one of Handshake AI’s top frontier lab customers. You will own the structure, systems, and execution of a high-impact, cohort-based program that supports advanced AI research and data initiatives. Your mission is to ensure the program's success by optimizing fellow experience, driving retention, and implementing scalable operational systems.

A Day in the Life

Your day will be dynamic and multifaceted. It begins with reviewing program performance metrics to identify areas for improvement. You'll then engage with the Delivery pods to align on delivery requirements and fellow needs. A significant portion of your time will be spent designing and refining program elements, such as onboarding processes, communication protocols, and engagement activities. Collaboration is key, as you'll work closely with the Operations/Delivery, Support, Product, and Learning & Training teams to address any challenges and ensure program success. You’ll also be identifying opportunities for automation and tooling to streamline processes and enhance fellow experience. Expect to spend time communicating with fellows, gathering feedback, and implementing changes to address their concerns.

Why San Francisco?

San Francisco is a global hub for technology and innovation, making it the ideal location for Handshake AI. Being in San Francisco places you at the epicenter of AI research and development, providing unparalleled opportunities to collaborate with leading experts and organizations. The city's vibrant tech ecosystem also offers access to a diverse pool of talent and resources, fostering a dynamic and innovative work environment. Additionally, San Francisco's cultural richness and natural beauty provide a unique and inspiring backdrop for both professional and personal growth.

Career Path

This role offers significant opportunities for career advancement within Handshake AI. As the first dedicated Program Lead for Fellow Experience, you will play a foundational role in shaping how customer-specific programs are designed, run, and scaled. Successful performance in this role can lead to positions with increased responsibility, such as Senior Program Manager, Director of Program Management, or even leadership roles within the Operations or Product teams. Handshake AI is committed to fostering the professional growth of its employees, providing opportunities for training, mentorship, and advancement.

Salary & Benefits

Handshake AI offers a competitive salary and benefits package to attract and retain top talent. The salary range for this role is between $140,000 and $200,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition to a competitive salary, Handshake AI offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous paid time off policy, paid parental leave, a 401(k) plan with company match, professional development opportunities, wellness programs, commuter benefits, and more. These benefits are designed to support the overall well-being and professional growth of our employees.

Our Mission

Handshake's mission is to democratize opportunity and connect talent with the right career paths. We believe that everyone, regardless of their background or location, should have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. By joining Handshake AI, you will be contributing to this mission by helping to develop the next generation of AI talent and ensuring that they have the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the AI economy.

How to Apply

If you are excited about the opportunity to shape the future of AI talent development and join a dynamic and innovative team, we encourage you to apply. To apply for the Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience role, please submit your resume and a cover letter through our online application portal. In your cover letter, please highlight your relevant experience and qualifications, and explain why you are interested in this role and Handshake AI. We look forward to hearing from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. What is the Fellow program?
    The Fellow program is a cohort-based program designed to support advanced AI research and data initiatives for a flagship customer.
  2. What are the key responsibilities of this role?
    Key responsibilities include designing and operating the Fellow program, managing the fellow experience, and driving improvements in retention and engagement.
  3. What qualifications are required for this role?
    Qualifications include a bachelor's degree (master's preferred), 5+ years of program management experience, and strong analytical and communication skills.
  4. What is the salary range for this role?
    The salary range is between $140,000 and $200,000 annually.
  5. What benefits does Handshake AI offer?
    Handshake AI offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) plan.
  6. What is the company culture like?
    Handshake AI has a collaborative and supportive work environment, with a focus on innovation and professional growth.
  7. What opportunities are there for career advancement?
    This role offers significant opportunities for career advancement within Handshake AI.
  8. How does this role contribute to Handshake's mission?
    This role contributes to Handshake's mission by helping to develop the next generation of AI talent.
  9. What is the interview process like?
    The interview process typically involves a phone screening, followed by interviews with the hiring manager and other team members.
  10. Is this role remote-friendly?
    While the role is based in San Francisco, some flexibility may be possible depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

Locations

  • San Francisco, California, United States

Salary

Estimated Salary Rangehigh confidence

140,000 - 200,000 USD / yearly

Source: ai estimated

* This is an estimated range based on market data and may vary based on experience and qualifications.

Skills Required

  • Program Managementintermediate
  • Stakeholder Managementintermediate
  • Process Improvementintermediate
  • Data Analysisintermediate
  • Communication Skillsintermediate
  • Problem-Solvingintermediate
  • Analytical Skillsintermediate
  • Project Managementintermediate
  • Leadershipintermediate
  • Strategic Planningintermediate
  • Cross-Functional Collaborationintermediate
  • Automationintermediate
  • Workflow Optimizationintermediate
  • Customer Successintermediate
  • Retention Strategiesintermediate

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred in a related field (e.g., Business, Operations, Management) (experience)
  • 5+ years of experience in program management, operations, or a related field, preferably in a fast-paced startup environment. (experience)
  • Experience designing and implementing complex programs with multiple stakeholders. (experience)
  • Proven ability to drive measurable improvements in key performance indicators (KPIs) such as retention, engagement, and satisfaction. (experience)
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and resolve recurring issues. (experience)
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with both internal and external stakeholders. (experience)
  • Experience working with AI or technology companies is a plus. (experience)
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team. (experience)
  • Proficiency in using project management tools and software. (experience)
  • Experience with process automation and workflow optimization. (experience)
  • Ability to thrive in an early-stage environment and hold a high bar for rigor, consistency, and professionalism. (experience)
  • Executive presence and strong judgment. (experience)

Responsibilities

  • Design, launch, and operate a cohort-based Fellow program dedicated to a single frontier AI lab customer.
  • Own program structure, timelines, onboarding models, and communication standards for the customer's cohorts.
  • Translate ambiguous customer and internal objectives into clear program plans and operating cadences in partnership with Strategic Project Leads.
  • Own the end-to-end Fellow experience for the specific customer program, from onboarding through program completion and ongoing engagement.
  • Drive measurable improvements in Fellow retention, engagement, satisfaction, and program completion for the customer program.
  • Identify recurring friction points that impact Fellow performance, morale, or delivery quality and implement durable, scalable solutions.
  • Build and refine playbooks, workflows, and lightweight systems that enable consistency today and scalability over time.
  • Identify and implement opportunities to use automation, internal tooling, and AI-powered workflows to reduce manual effort, improve quality, and increase reliability.
  • Reduce program-level escalations through stronger structure, clearer communication, and system-level improvements.
  • Partner closely with Operations/Delivery, Support, Product, and Learning & Training teams to ensure program success.
  • Continuously improve the Fellow program based on feedback and data analysis.
  • Manage program budget and resources effectively.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders.
  • Monitor program performance and identify areas for improvement.
  • Provide regular updates to leadership on program progress and challenges.

Benefits

  • general: Competitive salary and equity package.
  • general: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • general: Generous paid time off policy.
  • general: Paid parental leave.
  • general: 401(k) plan with company match.
  • general: Professional development opportunities.
  • general: Wellness programs.
  • general: Commuter benefits.
  • general: Free snacks and drinks.
  • general: Company-sponsored events and activities.
  • general: Opportunity to work on cutting-edge AI technology.
  • general: Collaborative and supportive work environment.
  • general: Opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of career development.
  • general: Flexible work arrangements.
  • general: Employee assistance program.

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Tags & Categories

AIProgram ManagementFellowshipSan FranciscoTechnologyAI Program LeadFellow Experience ManagementAI Talent DevelopmentHandshake AI CareersSan Francisco Tech JobsAI Research ProgramsCohort-Based LearningAI Lab PartnershipsProgram DesignProgram ExecutionFellow RetentionOperational ExcellenceAutomation StrategiesCustomer SatisfactionStakeholder ManagementAI Training ProgramsCareer DevelopmentTechnical Program ManagementAI Community BuildingHandshake AI CultureSan Francisco Bay Area JobsArtificial IntelligenceMachine LearningData ScienceAI Career PathsSenior Program Lead JobsEdTechCareer PlatformEngineeringProduct

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Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience Careers at Handshake - San Francisco, California | Apply Now!

Handshake

Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience Careers at Handshake - San Francisco, California | Apply Now!

full-timePosted: Jan 20, 2026

Job Description

Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience - Handshake AI

Role Overview

As the Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience at Handshake AI, you will be at the forefront of shaping the future of AI talent development. This pivotal role involves designing, operating, and continuously improving a dedicated Fellow program for one of Handshake AI’s top frontier lab customers. You will own the structure, systems, and execution of a high-impact, cohort-based program that supports advanced AI research and data initiatives. Your mission is to ensure the program's success by optimizing fellow experience, driving retention, and implementing scalable operational systems.

A Day in the Life

Your day will be dynamic and multifaceted. It begins with reviewing program performance metrics to identify areas for improvement. You'll then engage with the Delivery pods to align on delivery requirements and fellow needs. A significant portion of your time will be spent designing and refining program elements, such as onboarding processes, communication protocols, and engagement activities. Collaboration is key, as you'll work closely with the Operations/Delivery, Support, Product, and Learning & Training teams to address any challenges and ensure program success. You’ll also be identifying opportunities for automation and tooling to streamline processes and enhance fellow experience. Expect to spend time communicating with fellows, gathering feedback, and implementing changes to address their concerns.

Why San Francisco?

San Francisco is a global hub for technology and innovation, making it the ideal location for Handshake AI. Being in San Francisco places you at the epicenter of AI research and development, providing unparalleled opportunities to collaborate with leading experts and organizations. The city's vibrant tech ecosystem also offers access to a diverse pool of talent and resources, fostering a dynamic and innovative work environment. Additionally, San Francisco's cultural richness and natural beauty provide a unique and inspiring backdrop for both professional and personal growth.

Career Path

This role offers significant opportunities for career advancement within Handshake AI. As the first dedicated Program Lead for Fellow Experience, you will play a foundational role in shaping how customer-specific programs are designed, run, and scaled. Successful performance in this role can lead to positions with increased responsibility, such as Senior Program Manager, Director of Program Management, or even leadership roles within the Operations or Product teams. Handshake AI is committed to fostering the professional growth of its employees, providing opportunities for training, mentorship, and advancement.

Salary & Benefits

Handshake AI offers a competitive salary and benefits package to attract and retain top talent. The salary range for this role is between $140,000 and $200,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition to a competitive salary, Handshake AI offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous paid time off policy, paid parental leave, a 401(k) plan with company match, professional development opportunities, wellness programs, commuter benefits, and more. These benefits are designed to support the overall well-being and professional growth of our employees.

Our Mission

Handshake's mission is to democratize opportunity and connect talent with the right career paths. We believe that everyone, regardless of their background or location, should have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. By joining Handshake AI, you will be contributing to this mission by helping to develop the next generation of AI talent and ensuring that they have the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the AI economy.

How to Apply

If you are excited about the opportunity to shape the future of AI talent development and join a dynamic and innovative team, we encourage you to apply. To apply for the Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience role, please submit your resume and a cover letter through our online application portal. In your cover letter, please highlight your relevant experience and qualifications, and explain why you are interested in this role and Handshake AI. We look forward to hearing from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. What is the Fellow program?
    The Fellow program is a cohort-based program designed to support advanced AI research and data initiatives for a flagship customer.
  2. What are the key responsibilities of this role?
    Key responsibilities include designing and operating the Fellow program, managing the fellow experience, and driving improvements in retention and engagement.
  3. What qualifications are required for this role?
    Qualifications include a bachelor's degree (master's preferred), 5+ years of program management experience, and strong analytical and communication skills.
  4. What is the salary range for this role?
    The salary range is between $140,000 and $200,000 annually.
  5. What benefits does Handshake AI offer?
    Handshake AI offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) plan.
  6. What is the company culture like?
    Handshake AI has a collaborative and supportive work environment, with a focus on innovation and professional growth.
  7. What opportunities are there for career advancement?
    This role offers significant opportunities for career advancement within Handshake AI.
  8. How does this role contribute to Handshake's mission?
    This role contributes to Handshake's mission by helping to develop the next generation of AI talent.
  9. What is the interview process like?
    The interview process typically involves a phone screening, followed by interviews with the hiring manager and other team members.
  10. Is this role remote-friendly?
    While the role is based in San Francisco, some flexibility may be possible depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

Locations

  • San Francisco, California, United States

Salary

Estimated Salary Rangehigh confidence

140,000 - 200,000 USD / yearly

Source: ai estimated

* This is an estimated range based on market data and may vary based on experience and qualifications.

Skills Required

  • Program Managementintermediate
  • Stakeholder Managementintermediate
  • Process Improvementintermediate
  • Data Analysisintermediate
  • Communication Skillsintermediate
  • Problem-Solvingintermediate
  • Analytical Skillsintermediate
  • Project Managementintermediate
  • Leadershipintermediate
  • Strategic Planningintermediate
  • Cross-Functional Collaborationintermediate
  • Automationintermediate
  • Workflow Optimizationintermediate
  • Customer Successintermediate
  • Retention Strategiesintermediate

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred in a related field (e.g., Business, Operations, Management) (experience)
  • 5+ years of experience in program management, operations, or a related field, preferably in a fast-paced startup environment. (experience)
  • Experience designing and implementing complex programs with multiple stakeholders. (experience)
  • Proven ability to drive measurable improvements in key performance indicators (KPIs) such as retention, engagement, and satisfaction. (experience)
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and resolve recurring issues. (experience)
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with both internal and external stakeholders. (experience)
  • Experience working with AI or technology companies is a plus. (experience)
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team. (experience)
  • Proficiency in using project management tools and software. (experience)
  • Experience with process automation and workflow optimization. (experience)
  • Ability to thrive in an early-stage environment and hold a high bar for rigor, consistency, and professionalism. (experience)
  • Executive presence and strong judgment. (experience)

Responsibilities

  • Design, launch, and operate a cohort-based Fellow program dedicated to a single frontier AI lab customer.
  • Own program structure, timelines, onboarding models, and communication standards for the customer's cohorts.
  • Translate ambiguous customer and internal objectives into clear program plans and operating cadences in partnership with Strategic Project Leads.
  • Own the end-to-end Fellow experience for the specific customer program, from onboarding through program completion and ongoing engagement.
  • Drive measurable improvements in Fellow retention, engagement, satisfaction, and program completion for the customer program.
  • Identify recurring friction points that impact Fellow performance, morale, or delivery quality and implement durable, scalable solutions.
  • Build and refine playbooks, workflows, and lightweight systems that enable consistency today and scalability over time.
  • Identify and implement opportunities to use automation, internal tooling, and AI-powered workflows to reduce manual effort, improve quality, and increase reliability.
  • Reduce program-level escalations through stronger structure, clearer communication, and system-level improvements.
  • Partner closely with Operations/Delivery, Support, Product, and Learning & Training teams to ensure program success.
  • Continuously improve the Fellow program based on feedback and data analysis.
  • Manage program budget and resources effectively.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders.
  • Monitor program performance and identify areas for improvement.
  • Provide regular updates to leadership on program progress and challenges.

Benefits

  • general: Competitive salary and equity package.
  • general: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • general: Generous paid time off policy.
  • general: Paid parental leave.
  • general: 401(k) plan with company match.
  • general: Professional development opportunities.
  • general: Wellness programs.
  • general: Commuter benefits.
  • general: Free snacks and drinks.
  • general: Company-sponsored events and activities.
  • general: Opportunity to work on cutting-edge AI technology.
  • general: Collaborative and supportive work environment.
  • general: Opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of career development.
  • general: Flexible work arrangements.
  • general: Employee assistance program.

Target Your Resume for "Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience Careers at Handshake - San Francisco, California | Apply Now!" , Handshake

Get personalized recommendations to optimize your resume specifically for Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience Careers at Handshake - San Francisco, California | Apply Now!. Takes only 15 seconds!

AI-powered keyword optimization
Skills matching & gap analysis
Experience alignment suggestions

Check Your ATS Score for "Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience Careers at Handshake - San Francisco, California | Apply Now!" , Handshake

Find out how well your resume matches this job's requirements. Get comprehensive analysis including ATS compatibility, keyword matching, skill gaps, and personalized recommendations.

ATS compatibility check
Keyword optimization analysis
Skill matching & gap identification
Format & readability score

Tags & Categories

AIProgram ManagementFellowshipSan FranciscoTechnologyAI Program LeadFellow Experience ManagementAI Talent DevelopmentHandshake AI CareersSan Francisco Tech JobsAI Research ProgramsCohort-Based LearningAI Lab PartnershipsProgram DesignProgram ExecutionFellow RetentionOperational ExcellenceAutomation StrategiesCustomer SatisfactionStakeholder ManagementAI Training ProgramsCareer DevelopmentTechnical Program ManagementAI Community BuildingHandshake AI CultureSan Francisco Bay Area JobsArtificial IntelligenceMachine LearningData ScienceAI Career PathsSenior Program Lead JobsEdTechCareer PlatformEngineeringProduct

Answer 10 quick questions to check your fit for Senior Program Lead, Fellow Experience Careers at Handshake - San Francisco, California | Apply Now! @ Handshake.

Quiz Challenge
10 Questions
~2 Minutes
Instant Score

Related Books and Jobs

No related jobs found at the moment.