Benefits Manager

The Benefits Manager is responsible for strategy, design communication, administration and compliance of the Benefits function within HR covering active benefits, retirement and wellness. Works closely and collaboratively with the Director to ensure the highest quality, value and reliability of all benefits programs and activities.  This individual will offer a strategic viewpoint on benefit plan offerings and be able to deliver critical administrative support and vendor management in order to support the day-to-day customer service needs. They will ensure all plans are administered in accordance with federal, state and local regulations. This position will also have responsibility for aspects of HR systems and their integration as need be.  The incumbent is also required to perform all tasks in a safe manner consistent with company policies and state and federal laws.

Health and Welfare Plans

• Design benefits and retirement programs and policies by researching and analyzing industry trends and relevant practices.
• Deliver high quality customer service while managing benefit escalations and work with providers to find a viable solution for all parties.
• Create and deliver effective communications to increase awareness and improve plan participation, staying abreast of regulatory changes and mandated disclosures.
• Administer and manage a comprehensive Health and Welfare program including Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability, FSA, Voluntary Programs and COBRA.
• Serves as the primary Point of Contact for Third Party vendors, resolving claims and benefit issues.
• Manages relationships with brokers and vendors.
• Support employees throughout benefit lifecycle including orientation, enrollment, coordination of payroll deductions, benefits related queries and support to resolution.
• Review, reconciliation, and submission of all monthly vendor invoices for payment.
• Approver of qualifying life event changes and new hire benefits enrollment.

Retirement Plan Management

• Administration of 401(k) retirement plan to include setting up deductions, reporting eligibility dates and compiling required documentation for 5500 annual reporting.
• Oversees 401(k) administration and compliance activities including non-discrimination testing, and Form 5500 filings.
• Manages annual 401(k) audit process including census preparation, coordinating with recordkeepers, independent auditors and other relevant parties.
• Serves as primary reviewer of Auditor’s annual financial reports, Form 5500 and SAR preparation. Responsible for resolving discrepancies. Prepare all documentation in “near final” form for Director review prior to filing.

Compliance Management

• Tracking and maintaining company leave program ensuring compliance with local, state and federal laws.
• Responsible for FMLA compliance and administration.
• Follows ACA compliance regulations and leads the filing of returns to the IRS and 1095-C forms to associates.

Other Initiatives and Processes

• Organizes and manages annual Open Enrollment.
• Provides reporting on new hires, terminations, other relevant data as required.
• File feed and HRIS management.
• Strong written and Oral communication skills
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in Human Resources or related field with an emphasis in business or finance, or equivalent years professional/analytical experience related to the above-described duties.  
• Require 5+ years in in benefit plan strategy, design and administration with proven experience designing and implementing benefit and related programs. The ideal candidate is an enthusiastic benefits and wellness professional with both strategic and hands-on experience getting things done.
• Deep knowledge of employee benefit plan design including healthcare and defined contribution retirement programs along with the associated complexities of plan administration, associated payroll processes, regulatory requirements and benefits program taxability.