The Benefits Manager is accountable to the Assistant Vice-President of Human Resources. This role is essential in organizations as it connects the workforce with management by supervising employee benefits programs. The position requires a combination of empathy, analytical abilities, and a thorough knowledge of legal compliance and best practices in benefits administration. Responsibilities include creating, negotiating, and overseeing employee benefits programs, such as health insurance, retirement plans, leave policies, wellness initiatives, and additional employee benefits.

The core responsibilities of a Benefits Manager include assessing the current benefits landscape to ensure competitiveness and compliance with all laws and regulations. This role involves regular collaboration with benefits vendors and consultants to optimize offerings and manage costs effectively. The Benefits Manager must also stay abreast of industry trends and legislative changes that may affect benefits offerings and communicate these changes effectively to management and employees. They play a pivotal role in benefits enrollment processes, handling disputes, and providing informational sessions for employees.

Responsibilities

• Design, evaluate, and modify benefit programs to ensure that they meet the needs of employees, align with the company's strategic goals, and comply with all legal requirements
• Responsible for managing relationships with benefit plan providers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring that the benefits administration platform is efficient and user-friendly for employees
• Handle the communication of benefit information to employees through presentations, meetings, and written materials, making complex information accessible and understandable
• Perform reporting and analysis function of College benefit costs and be responsible for reports submitted to the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB)
• Coordinate Employee Benefits Fair / Open Enrollment and SURS retirement counseling appointments
• Manage the enrollment process, assist employees with claims or concerns, and oversee the maintenance of employee benefits records.
• Provide supervision in employee benefit payments
• Manage Family Medical Leave Act paperwork for staff and monitor hours utilized
• Coordinate Leave of Absence Requests with department heads and employees and keep track of accrued and used time for monthly reconciliations
• Serve as the Chair of the College’s Health / Life Insurance Committee
• Act as the liaison to the State Universities Retirement System (SURS) and assist employees with retirement planning within the pension system

Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, Benefits Management, or a related field

Experience: One (1) year in Benefits Management

Preferred Experience: Professional certifications such as Certified Benefits Professional (CBP) or Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS)