Benefits Manager

General Summary

Manages the benefit programs on a day to day basis by providing strategic recommendations, responsive program administration and leading program efforts to engage and support Kia team members.  Participates in the research, analysis, development, revision, and enhancements of the programs ensuring efficiencies for participants and the organization.  Applies knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures to interpret and apply company policies and government regulations to the efficient and compliant administration of the Kia benefit programs.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1st Priority - 45%

• Support and facilitate the company sponsored benefit programs including the annual health & welfare insurance renewal, workers’ compensation analysis and renewal, and 401(k) retirement plan administration.  
• Support efficient use of benefits budget and other resources. 
• Partner with internal HR, managers and team members on the maintenance and compliance with the leave of absence program. Oversee duties performed by direct report including but not limited to the reporting of ACA, team member communications, tracking and auditing of different benefits for provided savings accounts, EMRP, dependent verification etc.

2nd Priority - 25%

• Evaluate and recommend effective new or enhanced benefits to add value to established programs.  
• Ensure policies and programs are in alignment with the organization’s overall strategic objectives. Manage vendors and vendor agreements. Ongoing analysis of vendors and program offerings.

3rd Priority - 20%

• Lead the company’s health and wellness program to drive increased team member awareness of company sponsored program features and benefits. Point of contact for internal partners to address benefit system questions.  Educate team members on the benefits of our overall benefit programs.

4th Priority - 10%

• Performs any other duties assigned by HR management and take any reasonable action necessary to carry out the responsibilities of the position, consistent with established company policies and sound business judgement.

Qualifications/Education

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience
• Degree in Human Resources, Finance, or a related field a plus
   

Job Requirement

Overall Related Experience:

• Minimum 7+ years of experience in the human resources field, specializing in benefits. 
• Must have 5 - 7 years of experience in a corporate work environment.
• Current knowledge of regulations that govern benefit programs, program trends and prevailing practices.
• Experience with administering retirement and NQDC plans.
• Experience managing budgets and benefits reconciliation.
• Current knowledge and experience with leaves of absence administration.
• Must possess a strong numbers orientation and attention to detail.
• Prior supervisory experience preferred.
   

Specialized Skills and Knowledge Required

• Project management skills which includes handling multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills.  
• Intermediate proficiency in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint required to produce various reports and proposals.
• Possess the ability to navigate databases and systems as a user and system administrator.
• Strong knowledge of benefit laws and regulations (FMLA, CFRA/ADA, Cafeteria 125 programs, DOL, IRS guidelines and requirements).
• Ability to analyze team member utilization and develop recommendation for review by management.
• Ability to interface and communicate effectively in a clear and concise manner to all levels of team members, management, vendors, etc.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal skills to effectively communicate policies and procedures to all levels of staff and management.
• Excellent planning, time management, communication, and organization skills.
• Ability to collaborate and succeed with diversified business practices and with all levels of an extremely fast paced organization.