Virtual Benefits Manager

Location: Remote
Salary: $135,534 annually

About the Role:

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Virtual Benefits Manager to join our team. In this remote role, you will be responsible for overseeing and managing employee benefits programs, ensuring they are effectively communicated, administered, and aligned with organizational goals. You will play a critical role in designing, implementing, and optimizing benefits plans while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and addressing employees' needs.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Benefits Administration:
   • Oversee the administration of employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, disability, life insurance, and other employee benefits.
   • Manage benefits enrollment processes, ensuring accurate and timely processing of changes and updates.
   • Serve as the primary point of contact for employees with questions or issues related to their benefits.
2. Plan Design and Optimization:
   • Collaborate with stakeholders to design and enhance benefits packages that meet the needs of employees and align with organizational goals.
   • Evaluate current benefit offerings, recommend improvements, and implement changes as needed to improve employee satisfaction and cost-effectiveness.
   • Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to ensure benefits plans remain competitive and compliant.
3. Compliance and Reporting:
   • Ensure all benefits programs comply with federal, state, and local regulations, including ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, and other relevant laws.
   • Prepare and submit required regulatory reports and documentation, including Form 5500 and other compliance filings.
   • Conduct regular audits of benefits programs to identify and address potential compliance issues.
4. Communication and Education:
   • Develop and deliver clear and concise communication materials to inform employees about their benefits options, changes, and updates.
   • Conduct benefits orientation sessions, webinars, and workshops to educate employees on available benefits and how to utilize them effectively.
   • Act as a liaison between employees and benefits providers to resolve issues and ensure a high level of service.
5. Vendor Management:
   • Manage relationships with external benefits vendors, including insurance carriers, third-party administrators, and consultants.
   • Negotiate contracts and pricing with vendors to ensure cost-effectiveness and service quality.
   • Monitor vendor performance and address any issues or concerns that arise.
6. Data Analysis and Reporting:
   • Analyze benefits data and metrics to assess the effectiveness of benefits programs and identify trends or areas for improvement.
   • Prepare and present reports on benefits utilization, cost, and employee satisfaction to senior management.
   • Use data insights to make informed recommendations for enhancing benefits programs.
7. Project Management:
   • Lead or participate in special projects related to benefits program enhancements, open enrollment, and other initiatives.
   • Develop project plans, manage timelines, and coordinate with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals.
   • Ensure successful implementation of new benefits programs or changes to existing ones.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field; a Master’s degree or relevant certification (e.g., CEBS, SHRM-CP) is preferred.
• Proven experience as a Benefits Manager or similar role, with a strong understanding of employee benefits administration and compliance.
• In-depth knowledge of benefits laws and regulations, including ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, and other relevant legislation.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to explain complex benefits information in an accessible manner.
• Strong analytical skills, with experience using data to drive decision-making and improvements.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a remote work environment.
• Proficiency with benefits administration software and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

Personal Attributes:

• Detail-oriented with a high degree of accuracy in managing benefits data and documentation.
• Proactive and solution-oriented, with a strong ability to identify and address issues independently.
• Adaptable and flexible, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic remote work environment.
• Demonstrates a commitment to delivering exceptional service and fostering a positive employee experience.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a dynamic and forward-thinking organization as a Virtual Benefits Manager. If you are a dedicated professional with a passion for benefits administration and a commitment to excellence, we encourage you to apply.