The Benefits Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, administering, and maintaining Space Center Houston's benefits strategy, programs, policies, and procedures. **MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:** - Manages the design, implementation, administration, communication, and ongoing evaluation of Space Center Houston's benefits programs, policies, and procedures. - Ensures that benefits programs are equitable, meet employee needs, support Space Center Houston's business objectives, comply with all legal requirements, and are cost effective. - Develops benefits communications and counsels employees on benefits related issues. - Manages all group insurance plans (medical, dental, vision, life, long-term disability and voluntary life), health flexible spending/dependent care programs and COBRA. - Partners with the insurance broker and supervisor to evaluate and select insurance carriers, negotiate contracts, and recommend necessary changes to the provisions of the plans. Ensures required insurance plan documents are accurate and up to date. - Remains up to date on benefit options available in the marketplace to provide high quality and cost-effective benefit plans. Analyzes data to ensure benefit offerings are competitive in attracting & retaining talent. - Manages administration of the 403(b) Tax Deferred Savings Plan including data collection & reporting and compliance with all laws and regulations. - Ensures adherence to and compliance with all requirements related to ERISA, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), COBRA, 403(b) regulations and other benefits related federal/state laws and regulations. - Administers all leave policies including paid and unpaid FMLA, personal leave, military leave, short-term and long-term disability. Recommends policy changes as needed to support employee wellness and/or maintain compliance with federal/state laws and regulations. - Develops and manages benefits budgets. - Manages benefits planning and programs including health and welfare, retirement, and work life. - May select and manage outsourced providers. - Ensures employees receive assistance with all benefit issues including claims, qualifying event changes, leaves of absence and other benefits related questions. Ensures new hires receive benefits orientations. - Other duties and special projects as assigned. **POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:** - Degree in HR or a related field preferred. Certification as a Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) is a plus. - 5+ years of progressive experience in HR or benefits administration - Experience in benefits administration with a strong working knowledge of employee benefit plans including federal/state laws and regulations related to compliance/reporting. - Experience working with the ACA, ERISA, FMLA and COBRA regulations with extensive experience administering group insurance plans. - Strong appreciation for, and experience, in building credible partnerships with team members, managers and leaders at all levels. - Excellent communication, interpersonal and customer service skills to deal tactfully with Crew and managers. - Skills to present information clearly and professionally to individuals and well as large groups. - Customer service orientation with the ability to provide a high level of service to Crew and managers in a professional and courteous manner. - Sound judgment and the ability to maintain complete confidentiality related to all Human Resources matters. - Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple tasks. - Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work well with others. **PHYSICAL ABILITIES/WORKING CONDITIONS:** - Primarily works in an office environment with frequent use of a computer, phone, and standard office equipment. - Must be able to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for extended periods while working at a desk. - Frequently communicates by phone, and via electronic communication; must be able to exchange accurate information in these settings. - May occasionally need to move about the facility to attend meetings. - Work environment may include a mix of office settings and active operational areas, requiring adaptability and awareness of surroundings. - Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions while maintaining attention to detail and professionalism. - May be required to work occasional evenings, weekends, or special events based on business needs.