BENEFITS MANAGER JOB DESCRIPTION

Few HR functions carry the regulatory density that employee benefits does. ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, ACA, and FMLA each impose independent compliance timelines, and a missed Form 5500 filing or a failed nondiscrimination test lands directly on this desk. The Benefits Manager owns the full suite of health and welfare, retirement, and leave programs for a workforce that can range from a few hundred to tens of thousands of employees. Vendor contracts, broker negotiations, open enrollment cycles, and plan audits all require sustained ownership.

As the Benefits Manager, you are accountable for designing, administering, and continuously improving a competitive benefits portfolio that attracts and retains talent while keeping the organization in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. You operate within the HR function, typically reporting to a VP or Director of Total Rewards or Human Resources, and exercise oversight of benefits specialists and vendor partners across the full program lifecycle.

Career Impact: Deep expertise in ERISA governance, ACA reporting, and 401(k) plan compliance positions Benefits Managers as sought-after specialists whose credentials transfer across industries and employer sizes.

Business Impact: The programs you design and administer directly shape employees' healthcare access, retirement security, and return-to-work outcomes - outcomes that in turn affect workforce retention and total labor cost.

Growth Opportunity: Tenure in this role builds the actuarial fluency, vendor negotiation experience, and cross-functional credibility that advance professionals toward Director of Total Rewards or VP of Compensation and Benefits.

• Administer all health and welfare, retirement, leave, and voluntary benefit programs to ensure compliance, accuracy, and employee accessibility.
• Manage annual open enrollment from plan design through vendor configuration, employee communications, and post-enrollment audits.
• Lead regulatory compliance for ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, ACA, and FMLA, including 5500 filings, nondiscrimination testing, and required government notices.
• Negotiate and manage relationships with insurance carriers, benefits brokers, and third-party administrators to optimize cost, service quality, and contract terms.
• Oversee leave of absence administration, including FMLA, ADA accommodations, workers' compensation coordination, and disability plan claims.
• Conduct plan audits and actuarial data reviews to assess program performance, utilization trends, and financial exposure.
• Partner with Payroll and HRIS teams to implement benefit configuration changes, eligibility updates, and system upgrades accurately and on schedule.
• Develop and distribute benefits communications for new hire orientation, open enrollment, and ongoing employee education across multiple formats.

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• 5 or more years of benefits administration and program management experience, with demonstrated ownership of health and welfare and retirement plans.
• Working knowledge of ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, ACA, and applicable IRS regulations governing employee benefit plans.
• Proven experience managing vendor and broker relationships, including contract negotiation and service-level monitoring.
• Experience overseeing annual open enrollment processes, including plan design collaboration and employee-facing communication development.
• Strong analytical capability, including benefits cost modeling, utilization analysis, and compliance reporting.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage concurrent compliance deadlines across multiple plan types.
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential employee data with discretion and maintain data integrity across HRIS and vendor systems.

• CEBS, SHRM-CP/SCP, or PHR/SPHR certification reflecting formal professional development in benefits or HR.
• Experience administering 401(k) or 403(b) plans, including nondiscrimination testing, loan administration, and committee reporting.
• Prior supervisory experience managing benefits specialists or coordinators within an HR function.
• Familiarity with self-insured health plan structures, including stop-loss arrangements and claims-level reporting.

• Open enrollment error rate, measured as percentage of enrollment records requiring post-enrollment correction.
• 5500 and ACA filing timeliness, tracking on-time submission against regulatory deadlines across all plan types.
• Nondiscrimination test pass rate for health and dependent care FSA plans across annual testing cycles.
• Benefits cost variance, comparing actual health and welfare spend to approved departmental budget by quarter.
• Leave of absence cycle time, measuring average days from employee request to determination letter issuance.
• Vendor scorecard ratings, reflecting service-level agreement adherence across carrier and TPA relationships.
• Typical tools: HRIS platforms (commonly Workday or ADP); benefits administration portals; spreadsheet and reporting software (commonly Excel).

• Base Salary Range: $95,000 to $135,000 annually, depending on company size and scope
• Bonus: 10 to 15% annual target bonus tied to HR and compliance objectives
• Equity: Rare at this level; offered at larger publicly traded employers
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; HSA or FSA options typical
• PTO: 15 to 20 days annually, plus company holidays
• Common Perks: Retirement plan with employer match; professional certification reimbursement; hybrid or flexible work schedule

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Employment is contingent on successful completion of a background check. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process upon request. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

The Benefits Manager owns the full lifecycle of employee benefits administration, including health and welfare plans, 401k, retirement, leaves of absence, and wellness programs, supporting a broad employee population across multiple plan types. Partnering with insurance brokers, plan administrators, and third-party vendors, the role ensures programs remain competitive, compliant, and operationally sound while enabling accurate data transfer through the HRIS system.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day administration of all employee benefits, including health and welfare plans, 401k and retirement, leaves of absence and the employee wellness program.
• Develop successful partnerships with insurance brokers, plan administrators, and third-party vendors to manage all employee benefit programs.
• Manage the annual renewal process, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to ensure benefit offerings are competitive, affordable, and compliant.
• Manage annual employee open enrollment.
• Establish and run the employee wellness program.
• Handle enrollments, COBRA, terminations, changes, beneficiaries, disability, accident and death claims, rollovers, QDROs, QMCSOs, distributions, loans, hardships, and compliance testing.
• Document and maintain administrative procedures for benefits processes, including health insurance, dental, vision, life, disability, leaves, and 401k.
• Ensure compliance, timeliness, and accuracy with governmental regulations, reporting, and fees.
• Perform plan audits, prepare and organize data for actuarial assessments, and review data with actuarial evaluation task forces.
• Coordinate the transfer of data to external contacts for services, premiums, and plan administration from the HRIS system.
• Design and distribute benefits materials for new hire orientation and open enrollment.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience.
• 5 to 8 years of experience in benefits implementation and administration.
• Demonstrated credibility as a subject matter expert in benefits administration.
• Strong knowledge of employee benefit laws, regulations, and compliance requirements.
• Strong research and data analysis skills, with high proficiency in spreadsheet software.
• Experience with HRIS platforms, with Workday HCM preferred.
• Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to handle confidential data with discretion and integrity.

Embedded within the Total Rewards organization, the Benefits Manager develops and sustains a global benefits strategy that aligns program offerings with company objectives and maintains market competitiveness across all regions. Working closely with Legal, Finance, and HR Business Partners, the role drives vendor management, large-scale implementations, and compliance while delivering measurable employee value across a multinational workforce.

Core Functions

• Manage a sustainable global benefits strategy that supports the company's strategic objectives and offers a competitive value proposition for employees.
• Manage the implementation and administration of all programs, including health and welfare, retirement, EAP, and leave administration.
• Partner with vendors to ensure competitive offerings, strong customer service, and global compliance.
• Manage multiple benefits vendors, contracts, and RFPs as necessary.
• Collaborate with internal partners such as Legal, Finance, and HR Business Partners to ensure effective compliance, financial management, and employee value.
• Create a robust communication strategy leveraging external and internal partners.
• Manage additional projects including planning, research, implementation, and communication to ensure objectives are achieved and sustained.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field.
• 7 or more years of benefits experience, including 3 years at the management level in a corporate, consulting, or similar environment.
• Knowledge of pension and 401(k) regulations, global benefits markets, vendors, trends, and compliance issues.
• Demonstrated excellence in vendor management, large-scale implementations, project management, and change management.
• Strong analytical skills with a focus on detail, process efficiency, and linking financial data to HR priorities.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to tailor materials for varied audiences in a global environment.
• Demonstrated experience partnering across multiple organizational levels and remote teams, with willingness to travel 10 to 20%.

Reporting to HR leadership, the Benefits Manager shapes the administration of a comprehensive benefits and wellness portfolio spanning medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA, HSA, EAP, COBRA, and commuter programs for a large construction workforce. Partnering with Corporate Communications, HRIS, Payroll, and HR Business Partners, the role drives federal and multi-state compliance, supervises Benefits Specialists, and ensures long-term vendor relationships support strategic plan objectives.

Primary Duties

• Serve as a subject matter expert within and outside of the HR team.
• Manage the administration of benefits and wellness programs, including medical, dental, vision, life, long-term disability, FSA, HSA, commuter, EAP, COBRA, backup care, and wellness.
• Develop and maintain vendor relationships for long-term benefit strategies, ongoing assessments, and plan administration.
• Manage annual Total Rewards statements.
• Manage federal and multi-state compliance requirements, including 5500s, discrimination testing, ACA, DOL notifications, Medicare Part D notifications, and pay or play initiatives.
• Manage the wellness program from strategy through execution and assessment.
• Partner with Corporate Communications to deliver benefit communications through multiple channels.
• Supervise Benefits Specialists.
• Collaborate with HRIS and Payroll to implement benefit configuration changes, rate updates, and system upgrades.
• Work with HR Business Partners and Payroll to coordinate benefits for exiting employees, including documentation preparation.
• Maintain special Officer programs, including the Officer Benefit and Executive Health Plan.

Skills & Qualifications

• SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR, or related certification preferred.
• Extensive experience in benefits administration with strong knowledge of federal and state requirements, including ERISA and related compliance regulations.
• Strong research and data analysis skills, including high proficiency in Excel.
• Experience with HRIS platforms, preferably Workday, and proficiency with Google Suite.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly.
• Proven ability to supervise and manage a team and problem-solve effectively.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities.

Sitting at the intersection of benefits strategy and workforce scale, the Benefits Manager leads the design and global administration of benefit programs serving 3,500 full-time and 15,000 part-time associates at The Children's Place, partnering with the VP of Total Rewards to recommend enhancements that reduce costs and improve competitiveness. Operating across vendor relations, open enrollment, wellness campaigns, and government compliance, the role ensures that all programs remain current, accessible, and aligned with associate needs.

Duties

• Develop and manage benefit programs and plans globally.
• Support the creation of benefit program strategies with the VP of Total Rewards.
• Direct the daily activities of the Benefits Department.
• Build and maintain relationships with outside vendors and act as a liaison between associates and external vendors.
• Develop and drive the Life Balance wellness campaign and coordinate health and wellness events, fairs, and on-site meetings.
• Liaise with the communications team on marketing and awareness of benefit programs.
• Manage open enrollment activities, including on-site meetings, training sessions, and all communication materials delivered to associates.
• Ensure all programs are in compliance with government regulations and policies are up to date and available on the Intranet.
• Oversee administration of leave of absence and manage 401(k) enrollment and vendor inquiries.
• Provide customer service support to associates regarding benefit questions and problems.

Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or a related field.
• 7 or more years of experience in global benefits, human resources, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of benefit laws, regulations, and government compliance requirements.
• Working knowledge of human resource information systems.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office, with strong analytical skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including aptitude for business writing.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple tasks, make decisions proactively, and resolve problems swiftly.

A key member of the HR team, the Benefits Manager leads the research, administration, and enrollment operations for healthcare plans and wellness programs, including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k), ensuring packages remain functional, financially sound, and compliant with ERISA, FMLA, COBRA, and HIPAA. Collaborating with payroll systems and external vendors, the role supports employees through plan inquiries, life-status changes, and leave processing while maintaining accuracy across benefits data and billing.

Functions

• Research, analyze, and administer healthcare plans and wellness programs, including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k), ensuring packages are complete, functional, and fit for purpose.
• Forecast benefit claims, usage, and financial implications, and report on benefits scheme claims and uptake.
• Support and advise employees, responding to inquiries regarding plan provisions, enrollment, status changes, and general questions.
• Enroll employees in company-sponsored benefits and wellness programs, process life-status changes, and lead the open enrollment process.
• Ensure accuracy of all benefits enrollment through the payroll system and provide vendors with accurate eligibility information.
• Distribute benefits enrollment materials and determine eligibility.
• Process and administer all leaves of absence requests and disability paperwork, interpreting FMLA and ADA implications.
• Monitor and review monthly allocation and billing charges, and perform quality checks of benefits-related data.

Requirements

• Knowledge of employee benefit laws and regulations, including ERISA, FMLA, COBRA, and HIPAA.
• Understanding of city, state, and federal compliance requirements.
• Strong computer literacy and experience with payroll software, including proficiency in MS Office.
• Excellent communication and writing skills, with the ability to simplify complex information for written materials and workshop presentations.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and time management skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize, meet deadlines, handle multiple deliverables, and operate with discretion and confidentiality.
• Results- and bottom-line-oriented with sensitivity toward people and values.
• Hospitality industry experience is a plus.

Strategic benefits delivery across the APAC region depends on the Benefits Manager, who leads the development and oversight of all benefit plans with a primary focus on SEA retirement and pension arrangements, ensuring ongoing legal and regulatory compliance in partnership with local HR heads and the global benefits broker. Based within the APAC Compensation and Benefits team, the role regularly engages employees, HR leaders, business leaders, and benefit providers to deliver competitive, compliant, and employee-centered programs across a complex multinational landscape.

Accountabilities

• Develop benefits strategy and oversee delivery of all benefit plans in APAC with support from local HR heads and the global benefits broker.
• Lead all SEA benefits and retirement and pension plan arrangements.
• Utilize global brokers to monitor the competitiveness of APAC employee benefit plans and ensure legal compliance.
• Interact regularly with multiple stakeholders, including employees, HR leaders, business leaders, global benefits leadership, Payroll, HR Operations, and benefit providers.
• Provide benefits analysis for the APAC region, including employee engagement, take-up rates, and return on investment.
• Oversee and implement discounts and perquisites offered to APAC employees, linking global and regional teams.
• Manage client expectations and ensure internal and external clients receive best-in-class service in a timely and proactive manner.
• Serve as subject matter expert on APAC benefits, including compliance and governance.

Technical Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or above.
• 10 or more years of experience in benefits within a multinational or large corporation, with regional experience in Southeast Asia and other APAC countries preferred.
• Strong knowledge of APAC benefits compliance, governance, and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrated computer proficiency, with strong MS Office skills, including PowerPoint, Excel, Word, SharePoint, Workday, and SAP.
• Strong analytical, cross-cultural, and strategic communication skills.
• Ability to interact effectively with multiple levels of management and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational, interpersonal, and partnering skills, with a high degree of confidentiality.

As the Benefits Manager, this role supports the Head of Reward in delivering benefits programmes, including annual renewals, the annual enrolment window, and the ongoing development of the flexible benefits portal, while independently managing vendor data integrity, budget reconciliation, and new joiner introductions. The Reward team relies on this work to maintain accurate enrolments, resolve day-to-day portal queries, and produce fully costed recommendations that improve benefit programme quality and compliance within a UK statutory framework.

Operational Focus

• Support the Head of Reward in delivering benefits programmes, including annual renewals, the annual enrolment window, and continued development of the flexible benefits portal.
• Project manage the implementation and communication of new employee benefits and initiatives.
• Conduct monthly new joiner introductions to the benefits portal for new joiners and Partners.
• Pre-approve the processing of benefit invoices against reports from the portal and pre-approved external projects.
• Liaise with the Services Centre to ensure data integrity on the benefits portal and that all external providers receive accurate employee data through regular auditing.
• Recommend and implement improvements to internal audit procedures to ensure accuracy of benefits enrolments and compliance.
• Prepare budget and budget reforecast information with input from the Head of Reward and external benefit providers.
• Undertake monthly reconciliations of benefit spend against the Reward budget and validate data submitted to external compensation data providers.
• Resolve day-to-day queries relating to the flexible benefits portal and coordinate month-end processes with the system provider.
• Evaluate existing benefit programmes and make fully costed recommendations for improvements.

Position Requirements

• At least 4 years of experience in benefits, including pensions (group personal pension), or in a wider HR role handling benefits in a UK environment.
• Good working knowledge of UK statutory benefits requirements and UK employment legislation.
• Strong independent judgment, with the ability to investigate issues and draw on various resources to respond appropriately.
• Process-driven with a high degree of personal and professional integrity and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, meet timelines, and work collaboratively and cross-functionally as a strong team player.
• Client service-focused with the ability to follow up and follow through consistently.

Benefits Manager delivers end-to-end administration of retirement, health and welfare, compliance, and leave of absence programs, managing direct reports and external business partners to keep offerings efficient, competitive, and legally sound. The work directly supports team member development, regulatory integrity, and the ongoing evolution of benefit programs through data-driven recommendations and HRIS system oversight.

Leadership Responsibilities

• Own the administration of benefit programs covering retirement, health and welfare, compliance, and leave of absence, including program provisions, communications, and associated policies.
• Guide direct reports on programs, staffing, and customer service.
• Manage benefits programs to ensure they are efficient, competitive, and compliant with legal requirements.
• Oversee development and distribution of employee communications, including regulatory notices and Summary Plan Descriptions.
• Identify potential compliance risks and develop solutions.
• Develop and manage processes and tools to enable annual benefits enrollment.
• Deliver recommendations supported by analysis to advance the evolution of benefit programs.
• Manage relationships with external business partners to optimize service quality.
• Oversee system enhancements and changes with business partners and HRIS.
• Take a significant role in the development of team members to support their engagement, growth, and goal achievement.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree required, MBA preferred.
• 5 or more years of experience administering benefit programs, including retirement plans and leave of absence management, with 4 or more years managing direct reports.
• In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing benefits administration.
• Experience managing health and welfare budgets.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with extensive Excel experience.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems.
• Prior SAP experience preferred.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize with attention to detail, and adapt flexibly to new environments.
• Valid travel documents with the ability to travel domestically and availability for overnight travel up to 10%.

The Benefits Manager produces comprehensive administration of Health and Welfare benefit programs, voluntary plans, 401(k), workers' compensation, and additional benefit plans, ensuring consistent compliance with company policies and government regulations through thorough audits and personal contact. Partnering with insurance carriers, benefits brokers, outside consultants, and Benefits Specialists, the role implements best practices and technology to communicate and deliver programs while collaborating across the HR team on strategic initiatives.

Areas of Ownership

• Develop, recommend, implement, communicate, and administer all employee benefit programs, including new hire orientation and open enrollment activities.
• Research and develop specifications for new plans or modify existing plans to maintain competitive position in the labor market.
• Manage relationships with insurance carriers, benefits brokers, outside consultants, and auditors.
• Manage all leave programs, including disability plans, Workers Comp, Family Bonding Leave, FMLA, and LOA.
• Ensure all regulatory reporting, non-discrimination testing, and audits are performed on time, including ACA reporting and Form 5500 filings.
• Work with brokers to analyze and recommend solutions ensuring programs reflect market competitiveness and continuous improvement.
• Coach Benefits Specialists and ensure effective benefits communications using multiple media formats.
• Work with carriers, vendors, and brokers on plan designs, contracts, coverages, and renewals.
• Ensure all company-sponsored plans are in compliance with HIPAA, Section 125, ADA, discrimination testing, and ERISA reporting requirements.
• Reconcile benefit plan invoices, respond to employee inquiries, and respond to benefit market surveys.

Background & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field.
• CEBS and/or SHRM/HRCI certification preferred.
• 8 or more years of experience in benefits, with at least 5 years managing the benefits function.
• Sound knowledge of ERISA, HIPAA, Section 125, Section 137, Section 409, ACA reporting requirements, and other applicable IRS code.
• Experience with HRIS systems, with Workday preferred.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently on concurrent assignments.

Benefits Manager develops and oversees all benefits administration processes, programs, and compliance functions across health and welfare, retirement, and wellness offerings in a complex regulated environment, including participation in union contract negotiations and Retirement Plan Administrative Committee activities. The work directly supports Labor Relations, Compensation teams, employees, managers, and HR Partners through training, budget management, HRIS updates, and proactive identification of process improvements.

Strategic Responsibilities

• Strategically manage all benefits administration processes and programs to ensure optimal employee experience and compliance.
• Manage vendors, program changes, vendor contracts, compliance requirements, and routine reconciliation audits.
• Manage communication, education, and execution of benefits policies, including new hire orientation, escalation support, and change management initiatives.
• Proactively identify process gaps and partner with cross-functional business partners, including Labor Relations and Compensation teams, to recommend and enable improvements.
• Manage the successful delivery of all benefits enrollments, including annual open enrollment, new hire enrollment, and retiree life-status changes.
• Ensure compliance with HIPAA, ERISA, Defined Benefit Pension Plan, and 401(k) regulations, in partnership with internal and external legal and consulting resources.
• Participate in union contract negotiations and support implementation of newly negotiated benefit plan changes and HRIS updates.
• Participate in the Retirement Plan Administrative Committee and keep abreast of industry trends to recommend benefit design changes.
• Develop and manage the department budget for health and welfare, retirement plans, and wellness offerings.
• Develop and deliver training for employees, managers, and HR Partners on benefits best practices and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Human Resources, or a related field, or equivalent.
• CEBS, Certified Benefits Professional, or ASPPA certification preferred.
• 7 to 10 years of relevant experience in US benefits programs in a complex regulated or industrial company.
• In-depth expertise in US benefits analysis, design, development, administration, and compliance regulations.
• Proficient computer skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong written and oral communication, problem-solving, negotiation, and organizational skills.
• Previous supervisory experience, with the ability to influence leaders and partners across the organization.
• Ability to travel within the Western Pennsylvania service territory as needed.

Embedded within a mid-sized corporate HR function, the Benefits Manager oversees the full scope of benefit program administration, including health and welfare plan design collaboration, retirement plan compliance, open enrollment, HRIS configuration, and vendor relationship management. Working closely with health and welfare brokers, legal and professional vendors, and cross-functional partners, the role ensures programs remain compliant with ERISA, IRS, DOL, HIPAA, GINA, COBRA, FMLA, and applicable state law while continuously measuring utilization and employee impact.

Role Responsibilities

• Administer all company benefit programs and related processes to ensure programs are effective, efficient, compliant, and aligned with business strategies.
• Manage vendor relationships to ensure clear communication, appropriate benefit administration, and employee support.
• Respond to employee inquiries related to benefit plans and programs and coordinate with vendors to resolve escalated issues.
• Provide ongoing employee benefit orientation and manage the enrollment process.
• Create, implement, and manage open enrollment each year, including plan design collaboration, HRIS configuration, and communication execution.
• Collaborate with the health and welfare broker in support of benefit plan administration, review, and design.
• Measure effectiveness of existing benefits programs, including utilization, employee impact, and cost, and provide recommendations for new offerings.
• Ensure company compliance with federal, state, and local legal requirements, staying current on legislation and utilizing outside legal and professional vendors.
• Administer retirement plans, ensuring compliance with contribution requirements, loan administration, and committee meetings.
• Manage compliance testing and 5500 filings, audit benefit data for accuracy, participate in benefit surveys, and process benefit invoices.

Professional Experience

• 7 or more years of benefits management experience in a mid-sized corporate environment.
• Working knowledge of ERISA, IRS, DOL, HIPAA, GINA, COBRA, FMLA, Health Care Reform.
• Understanding of applicable state and federal benefit laws.
• Experience using HR systems for benefit administration and ACA reporting.
• Workday benefit administration and module configuration experience strongly preferred.
• 2 or more years of experience writing employee benefit communications.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office, with the ability to analyze and work with large data sets.
• Outstanding judgment, ethical standards, and ability to maintain confidential information.
• Excellent organizational and verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly present complex information to all audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate cross-functionally and influence outcomes.

Reporting to the Director of Compensation, Benefits, and HRIS, the Benefits Manager oversees all group benefit programs spanning medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability, FSA, transportation, 401(k), and the SIP/ERC Plan for a nationwide corporate workforce at Canon Business Process Services. Partnering with HR representatives, managers, third-party administrators, and external vendors, the role ensures ERISA, HIPAA, and FMLA compliance, manages billing and communications, and leads benefit initiatives including the Dependent Eligibility Audit Program.

Job Functions

• Oversee all group benefit programs, including group medical, prescription, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, voluntary life and disability, business travel accident, STD, LTD, workers' compensation, FSAs, qualified transportation, 401(k), and the SIP/ERC Plan.
• Oversee accurate and timely processing of monthly billings and preparation of payment requests for all group plans, including monthly file transmissions to third-party administrators.
• Evaluate and make recommendations to revise internal processes to reduce costs and increase efficiency, including benefit enhancements and changes.
• Revise and reissue all benefits communication materials and ensure proper Benefits Orientation information for new employees.
• Organize and oversee nationwide benefit initiatives such as the Dependent Eligibility Audit Program.
• Address non-routine benefit inquiries and complaints that vendors are unable to resolve, ensuring quick, equitable, and courteous resolution.
• Ensure company compliance with ERISA, HIPAA, FMLA, and applicable regulations, reviewing and reporting changes in state and federal laws to the Director of Compensation, Benefits, and HRIS.
• Guide HR representatives, managers, and employees on various employee benefit plans and assist with evaluating and designing new corporate benefit plans.
• Survey industry and competitors to determine competitive position in employee benefits and recommend cost-effective changes.
• Oversee administration of LTD, STD, all leaves of absence, and workers' compensation.

Knowledge Skills & Abilities

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent knowledge required, Master's degree a plus.
• CEBS Professional Designation preferred.
• 7 or more years of benefits design and administration experience in a corporate HR environment, with at least 3 years of supervisory experience.
• In-depth knowledge of federal and state regulations including ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, HIPAA, Section 125, Workers' Comp, Social Security, and DOL requirements.
• Strong analytical skills and thorough knowledge of plan designs.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, and presentation software.
• Experience using an HRIS platform such as Infinium or similar.
• Excellent organizational, time management, customer service, and vendor relationship skills.
• Ability to work independently and adapt to shifting demands.

The Benefits Manager delivers a comprehensive, competitive, and compliant benefit program aligned with company growth strategy, talent acquisition and retention goals, and business objectives, overseeing benefit administration, vendor management, open enrollment, FMLA, and disability administration. Collaborating with Corporate HR, site HR partners, brokers, and the VP of HR, the role ensures regulatory compliance across ERISA, COBRA, HCRA, ACA, and HIPAA while also supporting compensation programs, FLSA classification, and deferred compensation administration.

What You'll Do

• Develop, execute, and communicate all benefit programs, including benefits administration, vendor management, annual plan strategy and design, open enrollments, new hire enrollments, and qualifying events.
• Manage the annual renewal process, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to ensure benefit offerings are competitive, affordable, and compliant.
• Negotiate and manage relationships with broker and vendor partners, ensuring services are delivered within agreed service expectations.
• Participate in benefit surveys to forecast trends and make recommendations for future benefit designs.
• Consult with Corporate HR and site HR partners to ensure benefit offerings meet employee needs and enhance engagement.
• Monitor compliance regulations and emerging legislation, including ERISA, COBRA, HCRA, ACA, and HIPAA, and ensure completion of regulatory reporting and audits.
• Review all benefit plan contracts and ensure the Wrap Document is compliant, coordinating 5500 filings with brokers.
• Oversee FMLA and disability administration, and develop communications and education for managers and employees on total rewards.
• Partner with the VP of HR on compensation programs, FLSA classification questions, and performance management and merit and bonus program administration.
• Assist in the administration of the deferred compensation and 401(k) plan.

Qualifications & Experience

• BA or BS in Business Management, Human Resource Management, or a related field.
• CEBS, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or compensation professional certification preferred.
• 5 or more years of benefit design and full-scope benefits administration, with at least 3 years of functional expertise in program design and 2 or more years of compensation design experience.
• 2 or more years of experience managing HR professionals.
• Strong working knowledge of Section 125, ERISA, HIPAA, FMLA, COBRA, ACA, and HCRA.
• High proficiency with HR databases, with ADP WFN preferred, and Microsoft Office, including PowerPoint and Excel.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Ability to handle confidential data with discretion.
• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 10%.

Sitting at the intersection of benefits strategy and higher education, the Benefits Manager leads the design, evaluation, administration, and compliance of a broad benefits portfolio including 401(a), 403(b), and 457 retirement plans, group medical, dental, life, disability, FSAs, and work/life services, serving faculty and staff at the college level. Operating across vendor negotiations, actuarial oversight, regulatory filings, wellness programming, and early retirement counseling, the role partners with benefits consultants, legal and actuarial consultants, and record keepers to ensure equitable access and full compliance with ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, ACA, GINA, and HIPAA.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Manage health and welfare benefits and retirement programs, including 401(a), 403(b), and 457 retirement plans, group medical, dental, and life insurance, disability plans, FSAs, and work/life services, from a strategic and plan design perspective.
• Evaluate, plan, and administer the college's benefits programs, analyzing plan design and assessing program effectiveness.
• Work with the benefits broker to track market innovations, gather quotations, develop cost estimates, and make recommendations on additional or alternative benefits.
• Lead the development and implementation of changes and improvements to benefits programs, assessing and recommending revisions to ensure equitable access.
• Monitor the benefits budget and report on trends and variances.
• Manage relationships with benefits consultants, vendors, legal and actuarial consultants, and record keepers.
• Oversee benefits proposals, negotiations with insurance carriers, and administration of contracts and agreements.
• Counsel faculty on early retirement, career transition plans, and post-retirement medical benefits.
• Ensure all benefits programs, policies, and practices comply with ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, ACA, GINA, HIPAA, and applicable state and federal laws, and maintain up-to-date plan documents.
• Oversee preparation of required regulatory filings (5500s and SARs), conduct periodic audits, manage all employee leaves, oversee the wellness program, and lead employee benefit seminars.

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required, Master's degree in HR, Statistics, or a related field preferred.
• Certified Benefits Professional (CBP) or Certified Employee Benefits Specialist designation preferred.
• 6 or more years of experience in benefits design, implementation, administration, and compliance.
• Knowledge of ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, ACA, GINA, and HIPAA.
• Understanding of applicable state and federal benefit laws and regulations.
• Proficiency in data management systems and standard computer applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities independently, with demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
• Familiarity with the academic or higher education environment is helpful.

A key member of the Global Benefits team, the Benefits Manager advances the design, compliance, and supplier management of complex, multi-country benefit programs spanning high participant volumes and highly regulated environments, partnering with Global Benefits and International Compensation Managers to align regional strategies with company philosophy. Collaborating across IT, Legal, Tax, Communications, and HR Services, the role leads RFP processes, risk assessments, and stakeholder influence efforts to ensure programs reflect emerging legislation and deliver measurable value to a globally distributed workforce.

Scope of Work

• Ensure alignment of benefits programs with company philosophy, policies, compliance requirements, and governing laws.
• Oversee the gathering and prioritization of tool and process feedback from stakeholders in partnership with program subject matter experts, vendors, and partners, and drive identification of efficiencies and process improvements for large-scale benefit programs.
• Run complex benefits programs spanning multiple countries, high participant volumes, and highly regulated environments, monitoring progress and adapting to market trends and organizational changes.
• Drive formal risk assessments with global, regional, and local stakeholders to identify, assess, and address compliance risks and non-compliance trends.
• Drive complex, high-risk projects and consult with clients as a subject matter expert to resolve technical issues and recommend short- and long-term benefits solutions.
• Partner with Global Benefits and International Compensation Managers on the design and strategy of employee benefit programs to ensure country and regional strategies meet company philosophy.
• Lead benefits design and adaptation processes that interpret emerging legislation and industry trends, synthesizing market information and working with external partners to improve program design.
• Communicate the value of new or changing benefits programs and influence stakeholders to gain buy-in and approval of program design and cost recommendations.
• Provide advice and guidance across teams including IT, Legal, Tax, Communications, and HR Services to improve and integrate plans during program implementation and ongoing management.
• Lead supplier evaluation, RFP processes, selection, and onboarding, and establish supplier relationships and negotiate competitive service contracts.

Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, Social Sciences, or a related field.
• 7 or more years of experience in HR, Benefits, or related roles, with 5 or more years managing benefits vendors and regional benefit programs and 1 to 2 years of project management experience.
• Strong knowledge of benefits governance, regulatory compliance, data privacy, and global benefits philosophy and processes.
• Knowledge of vendor and supplier management, including RFI and RFP development and contract negotiation.
• Strong data analysis, project management, change management, and consulting skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and manage relationships across a highly matrixed organization.
• Spanish and/or Portuguese fluency preferred.