Benefits Manager

Are we right for you? 

We set the bar higher by bringing our unique talent and points of view to the table every day, we value diversity in talent as well as in thought, it helps us achieve our goals. We are curious and comfortable with change and are willing to take risks to be the partner and employer of choice. Most importantly, with everything we do, we put our clients and workforce first. 

How You Will Impact Company Success 

This manager is responsible for designing quality benefits plans and leading the Open Enrollment period for all employees. The Benefits Manager is the escalation point of contact for all benefit-related vendors. This manager will continually investigate new benefits programs and improve existing programs to increase employee engagement as well as monitor the benefits administration of existing participation. 

What Are Your Key Accountabilities / Tasks 

• Research employee benefits plans and vendors to identify those that present the best value.
• Design, recommend and implement new benefits programs. Examine possible plan designs and benefits cost changes.
• Negotiate with vendors and administrators for best plans, options and rates.
• Serve as primary contact for plan vendors and third-party administrators.
• Evaluate and revise internal processes to reduce costs and increase efficiency.
• Document and maintain administrative procedures for assigned benefits processes.
• Ensure compliance with applicable government regulations. Ensure timeliness and accuracy of required reporting and fees.
• Supervises daily benefits processing: enrollments, COBRA, terminations, changes, beneficiaries, disability, rollovers, distributions, loans, hardships and compliance testing.
• Oversee maintenance of employee benefits files, maintain group benefits database and update employee payroll records.
• Work with the Payroll Dept. to oversee the processing of monthly billings and the preparation of vouchers for payment of administrative fees for all group plans.
• Allocate group health and dental claims monthly and review quarterly.
• Audit the accuracy and performance of functions performed by benefits staff.
• Analyze current benefits, evaluating the use, services, coverage, effectiveness, cost, plan experience and competitive trends in benefits programs, and identify the company's stance.
• Perform plan audits. Prepare, collect and organize data for actuarial assessments.
• Review both short- and long-range cost estimates/projections and relevant statistical analyses regarding modifications in benefits programs and implementation of new programs.
• Survey industry trends. Foster employee engagement by completing benefits surveys and review information obtained from the results. Analyze complex benefits information. Forecast trends and assist with future benefits designs. Develop specific recommendations for review by management.
• Monitor administrative costs of benefits programs and recommend cost containment strategies, including alternative methods for administration and funding. Prepare budgetary recommendations and assist in the monitoring, verifying and reconciling of budgeted funds.
• Provide customer service support to internal and external customers. Focus on employee engagement by developing communication tools to enhance understanding of the company's benefits package. 
• Design and distribute materials for benefits orientations, open enrollment and summary plan descriptions. Provide training (including informational webinars) and support to group benefits employees and Associates.

What You Will Bring Here 

• Bachelor's degree in human resource management or related field.
• Three to five years of related benefits management experience. 
• SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP professional designations preferred.
• Experience in the contingent workforce industry a plus.

Desired Technical Skills and Knowledge 

• Effective planning and priority setting. Ability to manage several complex projects simultaneously while working under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Computer proficiency and technical aptitude with the ability to use Microsoft products, including PowerPoint; experience with HRIS and benefits databases.
• Project and team management/leadership skills and experience.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Effective planning and priority setting. Ability to manage several complex projects simultaneously while working under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills and a thorough knowledge of plan designs.
• Ability to understand, evaluate and make judgment on proposals (RFPs).
• Knowledge of benefits contract language.
• Knowledge of all pertinent federal and state regulations, filing and compliance requirements, both adopted and pending, affecting employee benefits programs, including the ACA, ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, workers' compensation, Medicare, and Social Security and DOL requirements.
• Excellent communication and organization skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, including advanced level use of Excel.

Desired Soft Skills

• Strong interpersonal skills and high level of accountability
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong attention to detail, along with solid execution
• Excellent organization and time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
• Problem solving
• Demonstrated flexibility with ability to pivot as business demands change
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential and sensitive information in an appropriate manner is critical

The salary at hire is expected to be between $105,000 - $115,000 per year. Performance-based variable compensation of up to 5% may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the benefits listed above in this posting.

nextSource is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.

nextSource is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talent@nextSource.com or call (917) 818-2347.