Position Overview:

The Benefits Manager is self-starter who will support the strategy, oversight, and execution of the company's pension, 401(k), short-term and long-term disability and other paid leave benefit programs. This role focuses on plan compliance, vendor management, and continuous improvement of program design. The Benefits Manager also supports the team managing day-to-day benefits administration, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and a positive employee experience. This position will focuse on project-based work and have 1 direct report that will handle daily inquiries.

Location:

Mt. Athos, Lynchburg, VA, hybrid. Remote option also available.

Your Day to Day as a Benefits Manager:

Strategic Benefits Management

Support the development and evolution of benefits strategy aligned with business goals, competitive positioning, and employee needs.

Analyze plan performance, market trends, and employee utilization to recommend enhancements or redesign opportunities.

Build business cases for program changes, plan enhancements, and new vendor solutions.

Compliance & Governance

Ensure all benefit programs comply with federal, state, and local regulations

Partner with legal resources and plan vendors to maintain accurate plan documents, SPDs, annual notices, and required filings.

Support audits, nondiscrimination testing, and remediation activities as needed.

Vendor Management

Serve as a point in contact for benefit vendors and consultants, ensuring service quality, SLAs, renewals, and performance guarantees are met.

Evaluate vendor performance and drive continuous improvement and accountability.

Benefit Administration

Provide guidance, coaching, and escalation support to the benefits team that oversees daily benefit administration.

Develop and maintain standard operating procedures, workflows, and quality controls.

Partner with HR Operations, Payroll, and HRIS and other internal stakeholders to ensure efficient and compliant benefit administration practices.

Employee Experience & Communication

Partner with Communications and HR teams to create benefits communication materials including open enrollment content, job aids, FAQs, and digital resources.

Lead benefits education campaigns to increase awareness, understanding, and value of programs.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, finance, or a related field (completed or in progress with equivalent professional experience).
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in benefits administration, HR analytics, or a related HR function, including at least two years in a lead role.
• Demonstrated experience administering health and welfare benefit programs, including involvement in open enrollment, compliance, and vendor management.
• Working knowledge of benefit regulatory requirements.
• Ability to travel 10-20% of the time, as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• CEBS (Certified Employee Benefit Specialist), CBP (Certified Benefits Professional), or PHR/SPHR certification.
• Familiarity with platforms such as Workday, Businessolver, SAP HCM, SuccessFactors.
• Prior experience in manufacturing, defense contracting, or a large multi-site organization.
• Experience coordinating with ERISA legal counsel or external benefits consultants.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
• Flexible work schedules and paid time off to promote a healthy work-life balance.
• Professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and sponsorship for continuing education.
• An inclusive atmosphere that celebrates new perspectives and supports collaboration between different generations.
• The chance to be part of a mission-driven organization making a positive impact on the future of energy.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and training to grow throughout your career!

Pay: $76000 - $119000

The base salary range for this position in Ohio (US-OH) at the start of employment is expected to be between $76000 and $119000 per year. However, the base salary offered is based on local job market factors, and may vary further depending on factors specific to the selected job candidate, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to these considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, such as an annual cash incentive in addition to a full range of medical, retirement, and/or other benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided at such time the selected job candidate receives an offer of employment. If hired, the selected job candidate will be employed 'at-will,' unless employed at a location and in a position subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The company further reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment, compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and other market factors.