A Hire Purpose Hiring for Benefits Manager – Higher Education Job at Worcester, MA Full Time

We are looking to engage a Consultant/Contractor immediately, while we search for a full-time hire. Please reply to this advertisement for either or both opportunities.

A hybrid work engagement is negotiable; candidates must be local to commute to the Worcester site as needed.

The Benefits Manager will be responsible for the strategic and operational leadership in all things benefits. Managing both strategy and philosophy, processes, policies, program design, implementation and administration, this role will provide the strategic direction and execution for benefits across the University. In addition, this individual will create and manage executive benefits infrastructure to support the attraction, retention, and motivation of colleagues; lead and manage the design and administration of all benefits and wellness programs; and to ensure benefits are aligned with our strategic objectives and culture.

Benefits

• Lead, implement and administer all health and welfare benefit programs and initiatives for 1500 employees, ensuring competitive, sustainable, cost-effective plans and programs.
• Working closely with finance, establish and manage compensation and benefit related budget, prepare accruals, and provide audit support as necessary.
• Support board preparation and delivery of materials as needed for Board of Trustee meetings.
• Prepare internal and external reports related to benefits and wellness plans.
• Oversee investment and retirement plan administration, including 403B and plans, working closely with our legal and finance teams to ensure compliance.
• Reconcile invoices related to compensation programs and proactively manage relevant vendors, auditors, and consultant contracts.
• Lead the annual open enrollment process.
• Ensure ongoing analysis and evaluation of services, coverages, and options available through insurance and investment companies to ensure programs best meet the needs of the University.
• Prepare and review annual audit filings and monitor plans for compliance.
• Implements FMLA, leave and ADA procedures in compliance with University policy, federal and state requirements. Provide related management support and training.
• Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations including but not limited to the Affordable Care Act/Health Care Reform, ERISA, HIPPA, FMLA, GINA, IRS, DOL, HHS, etc.
• Manage, coach, and develop staff (2 direct reports) in compensation, benefits, and payroll groups to establish priorities, delegate responsibilities, identify resources, and ensure high quality and timely work product and execution of exceptional customer service.

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrated knowledge of HR operations and service delivery with specific experience in the areas of benefits and wellness, including plan design, administration, and industry best-practices.
• Thorough knowledge of total rewards theory and practices as well as relevant federal, state, and local laws.
• Must have experience and working knowledge of benefit survey systems and processes (preferably from higher education institution)
• Experience preparing materials, briefings, and presentations, with demonstrated communication and presentation skills, at the highest level.
• Experience handling confidential material and associated issues.

Required Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, business administration or related area of study is required; a master’s degree or certification as a Professional in Human Resources (PHR), Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) is preferred.
• 5+ years’ experience of progressive leadership in a college or large, complex organizations creating and leading benefits and total rewards programs, including significant experience in the design and implementation of complex benefits programs.
• Relevant experience managing and coaching teams.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office products including Word, Excel and Outlook and experience using Workday HRIS platform or related system
• Knowledge and experience managing ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA and emerging regulatory issues.
• Professional certification(s) such as Certified Benefits Professional (CBP), Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) or HR Certification (PHR or SPHR) desired.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90,000.00 – $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

COVID-19 considerations:
We are closely tracking the health of our community through frequent, routine COVID-19 testing of every student, faculty member, employee, and contract worker that will physically be on campus, and this information is updated on our public dashboard.

Application Question(s):

• Do you currently hold any of the following Professional certification(s) such as CBP, CEBS, PHR, SPHR, GPHR or another?

Education:

• Bachelor’s (Required)

Experience:

• Benefits administration: 5 years (Required)
• Senior leadership: 3 years (Preferred)
• Human resources management: 5 years (Preferred)

Work Location: One location