JOB SUMMARYThe Benefits Manager is responsible for the strategic administration, compliance and operational management of the University's employee benefits programs. This role oversees the Benefits Team, serves as the primary liaison to the university's benefits broker and vendors, and ensures all benefit plans are aligned with regulatory requirements and university objectives.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSBenefits Administration:- Manages and oversees the administration of the University's comprehensive benefits portfolio, including but not limited to health and welfare, tuition programs, retirement plans, leave administration, and additional fringe benefits.
- Analyzes benefits trends and utilization data to inform recommendations for plan design and/or cost management.
- Provides recommendations to leadership on plan design changes, cost-containment strategies, benefit competitiveness, and vendor performance.
- Leads annual open enrollment administration planning and execution.
Vendor Management and Plan Documentation:- Serves as the primary contact for benefits vendors, brokers, and other third-party administrators.
- Coordinates the annual review and updates of vendor contracts, service agreements, and plan documents.
Compliance:- Ensures the University's benefit plans comply with federal, state and local laws (ERISA, ACA, FMLA, HIPAA, COBRA, and Section 125 requirements).
- Oversees preparation for internal and external audits.
- Manages annual reporting obligations and required notices.
- Maintains accurate plan records and documentation.
Team Leadership:- Supervises the Benefits Team, including hiring, training, work direction, and performance development.
- Develops team work plans, establishes priorities, and leads the implementation of process improvements and new initiatives.
- Manages and oversees the review and reconciliation process of vendor invoices.
- Provides guidance on complex benefits questions and escalated issues.
Systems Support:- Analyzes business requirements and system capabilities.
- Participates in the design, implementation, and testing of new benefits systems and system enhancements.
- Develops and executes test scripts, validates results, and ensures data integrity across HR, payroll, and benefits platforms.
Internal Committees:- Works with various internal and external stakeholders:
- Brokers
- University communities
- Fringe Benefits Advisory Committee
- Retirement Investment Committee
- Vendors
- Government agencies
- Cross-functional teams regarding benefit related initiatives.
Employee Communications and Education:- Develops and delivers employee communications, presentations, and other benefits resources.
QUALIFICATIONSMinimum Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field
- Five years of progressively responsible experience in benefits administration.
- Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to employee benefit plans (ERISA, ACA, FMLA, HIPAA, COBRA, Section 125, MN Paid Family Leave).
- Proficiency with HRIS/benefits administration systems
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted
HOW TO APPLYAll interested candidates must apply online at https://www.stthomas.edu/jobs/. Follow the instructions to complete an online application which includes creating or updating an applicant profile, uploading a resume, and completing a job specific application.
In light of its commitment to create and maintain a safe learning and working environment, employment with the University of St. Thomas requires consent and successful completion of a background screening.
Official job posting is available at www.stthomas.edu/jobs.
