Benefits Manager

Overview Overview of Position: The Benefits Manager is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing Easterseals Southern California (ESSC) benefits programs. This role ensures that all benefits plans, including health, dental, vision, disability, and retirement plans, are competitive, cost-effective, and compliant with legal requirements. The Benefits Manager works closely with other departments to support the overall well-being of associates by communicating and educating them about the value of the benefits offered. We are seeking candidates based in Southern California only. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of any employment visa at this time. Starting Salary Range: $113,500 - $138,500 Responsibilities Develop and administer benefit programs, ensuring they meet the multi-generational needs of the workforce. Monitor and evaluate all benefit programs to ensure they operate effectively, efficiently, and in compliance with all applicable regulations. Provide comprehensive support to employees regarding benefits plans, claims, and eligibility inquiries. Partner collaboratively with other HR functional leaders to effectively test, model, monitor, communicate benefit plan designs, processes, and procedures. Conduct ongoing assessments of ESSC health and welfare policies and recommend updates, design changes, and process improvements. Manage the annual open enrollment process, including plan renewals, associate communications, presentations, and training sessions. Collaborate with insurance brokers, carriers, and vendors to negotiate contracts, manage plan performance, and ensure the best service and value for employees. Monitor industry trends and best practices, evaluate benchmark data, and recommend improvements to existing benefit programs. Oversee the accurate and timely processing of benefit data in HRIS and vendor systems. Participate in ESSC’s 401(k) Fiduciary and Investment Committee meetings. Develop and deliver benefit-related communication materials, conduct educational sessions, surveys, and focus groups to assess understanding of benefits’ value. Lead, coach, and develop the benefits team, providing feedback, conducting performance evaluations, and supporting professional growth. Generate and analyze reports on benefits utilization, costs, and satisfaction; use data to identify trends and recommend improvements. Collaborate on Total Rewards strategy and Total Compensation Statements. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications Education: Bachelor’s degree in a related field from an accredited college or university. PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP certification strongly preferred. Experience: Minimum of 6 years of benefits administration experience. Minimum of 2 years supervisory experience managing 1-2 direct reports. Advanced experience with regulatory compliance in benefit and retirement programs. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Advanced knowledge of health/welfare and retirement plan design and administration. Ability to combine creative and analytical thinking to support business objectives. Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. Strong project management, organizational, and analytical skills. Ability to collaborate with all management levels, develop partnerships, and influence organizational decisions. Leadership skills, including team development, mentoring, motivating, and empowering staff. Thorough knowledge of applicable laws (ERISA, IRS, DOL, ACA, HIPAA, etc.). Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and Workday.

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