Manager, Benefits And Compliance

POSITION DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Senior Director, Human Resources, the Manager, Benefits and Compliance is responsible for overseeing a comprehensive range of benefits programs, from health and welfare plans to retirement, in alignment with organizational objectives and employee needs. Additionally, this role involves ensuring compliance with employment laws, monitoring payroll accuracy, and enhancing employee engagement through wellness initiatives. The manager will utilize data analysis and maintain up-to-date knowledge of regulations and trends to inform decision-making and improve operational processes.

• Manage health and welfare plan execution in conjunction with benefits broker, including but not limited to medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, COBRA, life insurance disability, 401(k), and workers compensation. Manage relationships with benefits vendors and carriers, including contract negotiations, service level agreements, and performance evaluations, to ensure the highest level of service to employees.
• Partner with the SDHR and external vendors/partners, to review, analyze and monitor the benefits market to determine employee needs, identify trends, stay updated on regulations, and develop competitive programs and services that align with the organization’s strategic goals.
• Create and deliver clear and informative materials to educate employees about their benefits options. Organize information sessions and provide ongoing support to ensure employees fully understand and utilize their benefits. Act as a point of contact for employees with benefits-related inquiries or concerns, resolving issues promptly to enhance employee satisfaction.
• Evaluate and develop employee wellness and engagement program aiming to enhance employee wellbeing, satisfaction, and retention. Oversee and facilitate Employee Assistance Program or similar initiatives aimed at supporting employees’ mental and emotional well-being.
• Lead annual benefits review and selection process in collaboration with benefits broker. Lead annual Open Enrollment and plan renewal processes, including evaluation of costs, design reviews, data requirements, and communications. Prepare and execute benefits documentation, such as original and amended plan texts, benefit contracts, and insurance policies.
• Oversee retirement plan and tailor offerings to meet the unique needs of our employees’ and organizational objectives. Act as the primary contact for the 401(k) plan administrator and auditor, ensuring accurate submission of employee and employer contributions and Compliance with ERISA reporting requirements, and other mandated testing and reporting. 
• Monitor and ensure the organization’s compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations. Recommend and implement best practices, regularly review, and update the Employee Handbook and related policies and practices to maintain compliance. Manage the Affirmative Action Plan and other reporting requirements including overseeing hiring practices related to government contracts.
• Supervise alternating biweekly payrolls for both headquarters employees and surveyors adhering to all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Conduct thorough audits of payroll transactions, track, analyze compensation variances and verify salary changes, including merit increases, promotions, bonuses, etc. 
• Coordinate external compensation studies as necessary to ensure competitive and fair compensation practices within the organization. 
• Assist in the selection, implementation, and training of new payroll and benefits technology and vendors, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems. 
• Leverage Excel and other tools to produce complex reports for analysis and decision making. Use data-driven insights for accurate budgeting and forecasting. 
• Manage and mentor the Payroll and Benefits Administrator. Provide training, guidance, and oversight to ensure accurate and efficient payroll and benefits administration. Foster professional development and support the administrator in fulfilling responsibilities effectively.
• Regularly assess processes and procedures, seeking opportunities for continuous improvement and efficiency. Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures and policies related to benefits, compliance, payroll, wellness, and employee engagement. Maintain organized and up-to-date benefits-related documentation, ensuring compliance with record-keeping regulations and efficient retrieval of records.