Position Overview:
The Benefits Manager is responsible for overseeing the delivery and management of employee benefits and supporting leave administration processes. This role focuses on evaluating current offerings, developing new programs, leading benefits communications, and ensuring effective implementation of changes. Partnering closely with internal teams and external vendors, the Senior Manager will help foster a positive employee experience by providing competitive, compliant, and clearly communicated benefits solutions.
The successful candidate will be an experienced and detail-oriented professional with a strong background in benefits management, HR systems, and total rewards. They should bring a forward-thinking approach to improve operational efficiency and continuously enhance the organization's benefits offerings.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage day-to-day administration of employee benefits, including eligibility, enrollment, changes, terminations, and COBRA compliance.
- Ensure all benefits activities are delivered accurately, efficiently, and in line with plan documents and regulatory requirements.
- Partner with leadership and external consultants on the overall benefits strategy.
- Maintain oversight of employee eligibility and enrollment, ensuring timely and accurate communications.
- Lead administration of the retirement savings plan, including employee education and participation support.
- Plan and manage annual open enrollment and implementation of new or revised benefit programs.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of benefits offerings, benchmark against best practices, and propose enhancements aligned with organizational objectives.
- Coordinate required compliance activities, including audits and regulatory testing.
- Serve as a primary resource for employees and the People & Culture team on benefits-related inquiries.
- Support leave administration and coordinate accommodations in partnership with employee relations staff.
- Conduct regular reconciliations between carrier invoices, HRIS data, and payroll deductions.
- Provide oversight of workers' compensation claims and leave management processes, ensuring compliance with all applicable employment laws.
- Contribute to the development and management of total rewards and wellness initiatives.
- Manage relationships with benefits vendors and ensure service delivery aligns with contract terms and organizational needs.
- Stay updated on changes in relevant laws and regulations (e.g., COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, ADA, ACA, ERISA, Workers' Compensation).
- Lead benefits communication and education efforts, including wellness programming.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- 8-10 years of progressive experience in benefits administration.
- Experience supporting a diverse workforce, including exempt and non-exempt employees.
- Proficiency with HRIS systems, specifically Workday, in benefits administration.
- CEBS certification preferred but not required.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Collaborative, proactive, and solutions-oriented team player.
- Adaptability to shifting priorities and a commitment to delivering high-quality service.