Benefits Manager

Under the direction of the Human Resources Director, the Benefits Manager is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing insurance, retirement, FMLA, STD, and wellness programs for County employees. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of benefits administration, adherence to regulatory compliance, and a strategic mindset to improve employee satisfaction and retention. This position is (Not-Covered) as defined by The Board of Commissioners of the County of Allen Employee Handbook.Essential FunctionsAdministers and manages insurance programs for County employees.Determines the eligibility of employees and dependents for various insurance plans and assists with enrollment for eligible employees.Provide strategic oversight and lead FMLA and STD leave administrationAdvises employees of leave procedures, expectations and certification process. Manages continued insurance coverage and premiums due during unpaid leaves.Proactively reviews and analyzes benefit offerings and market trends to recommend improvements and ensure competitiveness.Leads the enrollment process, including planning, communication, technology, and implementation. Processes appropriate documents for enrollment and relevant insurance plan changes.Provide strategic oversight of employee retirement and benefit programs, managing plan administration, compliance, employee communications, and ongoing program effectiveness.Assists employees with Public Employees Retirement Fund (PERF) information, retirement applications, 457(b) plan information, meetings, enrollments, and changes.Administers the County Early Retirement Incentive Plan, determining eligibility and enrolling employees.Coordinates delivery of strategies to educate employees about their benefit options and assist them in making informed decisions.Schedules, facilitates, coordinates, and organizes meetings for new employees, open enrollment, and educational sessions, including, but not limited to, Health Savings Account (HSA), 457(b), and retirement planning.Facilitates educational opportunities for employees to learn about health, retirement, leave, and wellness benefits.Ensures County benefit policies and procedures comply with regulations and laws including, but not limited to, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), Human Health Services (HHS), Department of Labor (DOL), and Internal Revenue Service (IRS).Represents the County Health Plan as the HIPAA Privacy Officer, ensuring the Personal Health Information of employees is safeguarded and the County complies with requirements.Recommends plan design changes and additions to insurance programs and presents recommendations to the Board of Commissioners concerning possible cost-saving measures.Participates in presentations and seminars, including HR training programs, new employee orientation, and open enrollment.Manages and facilitates various County wellness and total rewards programs.Provides a customer service focus to ensure responsiveness to employee inquiries.Facilitates and interfaces with staff of the Employee Health Clinic to assist in operations.Performs all other duties as assigned.RequirementsBachelor’s degree in Business, Human Resources, or a related field; Master’s degree preferredMinimum of five years' experience in benefits administration, preferably in a large or mid-sized organizationCertification in benefits or HR (e.g., PHR, SPHR) is a plusWorking knowledge of current benefit policies and regulations, including ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, ACA, and other relevant lawsProven project management skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks and deadlinesAbility to maintain strict confidentiality of records and dataStrong written and verbal communication skills including presentation and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with all levels of the organizationStrong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make strategic recommendationsStrong computer skills with the ability to use Microsoft Office and other job related computer software programsPerformance ExpectationsThe Benefits Manager must have expertise in benefits administration, regulatory compliance, and the development of strategic initiatives to improve employee satisfaction and retention. Essential duties include effectively communicating and educating employees about benefits, ensuring accurate enrollment, and being responsive to inquiries. Additionally, the role requires analyzing market trends to recommend competitive benefits and cost-saving measures.ResponsibilityThe Benefits Manager designs, implements, and manages benefit programs for County employees, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. Responsibilities include determining eligibility, overseeing enrollment, and providing responsive customer service. The Manager analyzes benefit trends, recommends improvements, and creates communication strategies to educate employees. Their decisions and recommendations significantly impact County departments and must align with the County's mission and policies.Personal Work RelationshipsThe Benefits Manager maintains frequent contact with other County employees, outside agencies, department heads and elected officials, and the public when managing and administering the insurance, retirement, FMLA, STD and wellness programs for County employees.Working Conditions/Physical DemandsThe Benefits Administrator typically works in an office environment with continuous periods of sitting and using a computer. The role is primarily mentally demanding, requiring prolonged periods of focus, attention to detail, and repetitive hand movements. Physical demands are minimal but include occasional standing, walking, and lifting of light materials.The position involves continuous periods of sitting and using a computer.Occasionally, standing and walking are needed for meetings or other office tasks.The role requires continuous fine motor skills and repetitive motions such as typing and data entry.The description below outlines the physical requirements specific to the Benefits Manager’s role:Physical RequirementsOccasionally = 1 to 2 hoursFrequently = 3 to 4 hoursRepeatedly = 5 to 6 hoursContinuously = 7+ hoursSittingStandingWalkingFine Motor SkillsGross Motor SkillsRepititve MotionsLiftingCarryingPushing/PullingPhysical EnduranceXXXXXXXXXXSupervisionNoneLicensingValid Driver’s License to drive to and from various County-owned facilitiesImmediate SupervisorHuman Resources DirectorHours8:00 am – 4:30 pm and as neededPlease complete the application accurately and thoroughly. A resume is optional. Remember to save and submit your application. If applying for multiple positions, submit a separate application for each one. You'll receive an email confirmation once your application is received. Due to the high volume of applications, further communication will only occur if you're selected for an interview.We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). Accordingly, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, age, disability or medical condition, national origin, and veteran status, and all other categories protected by federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws. Reasonable accommodations for persons with a known disabling condition will be considered in accordance with State and Federal Law.