Benefits Manager

The Benefits Manager is responsible for overseeing all employee benefits programs. This includes managing benefit plans and policies, as well as vendor relationships, to ensure compliance with legal requirements and alignment to company objectives. The Benefits Manager will also stay informed of industry changes and new developments to help the business keep up with best practice standards.

Job Responsibilities

• Manages third-party vendors to administer and maintain all employee benefit programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, life insurance, and disability coverage.
• Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local benefit laws and regulations (i.e. ERISA, COBRA, ACA, HIPAA); supplies related reporting and audit support.
• Analyzes data to identify trends and makes recommendations for cost savings or program improvements.
• Manages the day-to-day relationships with external vendors, including benefits brokers, insurance carriers, and payroll providers to resolve issues and improve service delivery.
• Coordinates annual benefits review, vendor evaluation, and renewal processes in partnership with senior HR leadership.
• Manages all open enrollment activities including system updates, training, communications, escalated employee assistance and vendor integrations.
• Develops and implements communication strategies to inform employees about benefits processes, changes, and options.
• Stays informed about industry trends to recommend competitive and cost-effective benefit options.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Skills Requirements

• Comprehensive knowledge of principles & practices of HR, employee benefit regulations, administration, and compliance.
• Strong organization and time management/project management skills necessary to prioritize and oversee a team and third-party vendors with multiple assignments and to meet set deadlines; ability to react quickly in a fast-paced, changing environment.
• Strong communication skills to facilitate work with diverse groups of employees.
• Solid computer skills including the ability to analyze data, draw conclusions, and recommend action.

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum five years of human resources experience.
• Prior benefits administration experience required.
• Experience with PlanSource and UKG preferred.

MEC participates in the E-Verify program.