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Benefits Manager
Location: Minnetonka, MN – Hybrid work – 3 days onsite, 2 days remote
Contract Length: Contract for 3 months, with possible extension
Compensation: $100,000K – $130,000K, depending on prior experience
Position Overview
The Manager of Benefits serves as the primary leader responsible for shaping and administering the organization’s employee benefits strategy. This role ensures that all benefit programs are thoughtfully designed, well‑managed, compliant, and supportive of the workforce’s health, financial security, and overall wellbeing. The individual in this position partners closely with HR leadership, internal teams, vendors, and consultants to deliver positive employee experience and continuously improve benefit offerings in alignment with organizational goals.
Key Responsibilities
Benefits Strategy & Program Management
- Develop and refine benefit programs to maintain strong market competitiveness, cost stewardship, and alignment with business priorities.
- Work with external consultants to review market trends and identify opportunities for innovation and optimization.
- Interpret claims and utilization data to guide benefit enhancements and strategic decision‑
- Lead the planning and execution of annual benefit renewal cycles, including open enrollment and related communication efforts.
- Embed wellbeing initiatives-health, financial, and lifestyle-into the overall benefits framework.
Compliance & Reporting
- Ensure programs operate in full compliance with ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, IRS, and all relevant regulations.
- Oversee required regulatory filings, plan audits, and updates to SPDs, SBCs, and other benefit plan documents.
- Maintain current, accurate policies and process documentation to support ongoing compliance.
- Stay informed on legislative and regulatory changes and make recommendations to adjust programs as needed.
Vendor & Consultant Management
- Build and maintain effective relationships with carriers, brokers, TPAs, and other benefit partners.
- Lead and participate in RFP processes to assess and select vendors.
- Collaborate with procurement teams on contract negotiations, performance standards, and fee structures.
- Measure vendor performance, resolve escalated issues, and drive service improvements.
Employee Experience & Communication
- Create clear, engaging benefit communication materials-including guides, FAQs, presentations, and digital content.
- Support HR teams by resolving complex benefit questions or unique employee situations.
- Champion wellbeing and financial wellness programs across the organization.
- Provide education and training to employees and managers on benefit offerings and processes.
Leadership & Team Oversight
- Lead, coach, and mentor benefits team members to ensure strong performance and growth.
- Define team objectives, evaluate progress, and oversee accurate program administration.
- Foster a culture focused on service excellence, continuous improvement, and operational accuracy.
- Encourage cross‑training and skill development to strengthen team capabilities.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.
- 5+ years of experience in benefits administration.
- 1-4 years of leadership experience overseeing people or programs.
- Strong understanding of benefits laws, regulations, and compliance requirements.
- Experience managing vendor relationships and external partners.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and identify insights.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in a mid‑ to large‑scale organization.
- CEBS or a related professional benefits certification.
- Experience leading or influencing benefits strategy.
