Job DescriptionBenefits Manager - Section Manager II
Under general guidance, leads the design, administration, and continuous improvement of OCTA's employee benefits programs. This position oversees benefits strategy, program administration, compliance, vendor management, and staff development to ensure benefits programs are competitive, cost-effective, and aligned with the agency's strategic goals. As a member of the Human Resources leadership team, this role helps shape programs that support employee well-being, recruitment, retention, and organizational success.
This is an exempt position in salary grade 220: Min - $117,228.80 | Mid - $139,276.80 | Max - $161,304.00/year. The starting salary will be within this range based on qualifications.
This posting will remain open until a candidate is selected.What You'll Do- Lead the administration and strategic direction of employee benefits programs, including health insurance, pension plans, deferred compensation, wellness initiatives, and other benefit offerings
- Supervise and develop the benefits section staff, providing leadership, coaching, performance management, and professional development opportunities
- Oversee benefits operations, program implementation, audits, compliance activities, and vendor performance management
- Develop, update, and implement benefits policies, procedures, and program enhancements to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations
- Collaborate with legal counsel, insurance carriers, trustees, and third-party administrators regarding benefits plan administration and program changes
- Manage benefits-related contracts, Board actions, procurement activities, and vendor negotiations
- Ensure benefits programs integrate effectively with HR systems, including Workday, and support employee self-service functionality
- Develop and manage section budgets, monitor expenditures, and support long-term financial planning for benefits programs
- Prepare reports, presentations, statistical analyses, and recommendations for executive leadership and the Board of Directors
What We're Looking For- Extensive knowledge of employee benefits design, administration, compliance, and industry best practices
- Strong leadership and management skills with experience developing high-performing teams
- Experience managing complex vendor relationships, contracts, and third-party administrators
- Ability to analyze benefits trends, conduct benchmarking studies, and develop data-driven recommendations
- Strong understanding of applicable federal and state laws governing employee benefit programs
- Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills
- Ability to balance employee needs, customer service, and organizational objectives while driving strategic outcomes
Minimum Qualifications:- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field or any equivalent combination of education and experience
- Minimum five (5) years of professional Human Resources experience in benefits design and administration
- Minimum three (3) years of management experience
Highly Desirable Qualifications:- Master's degree
- Public sector experience
- Professional benefits certification
- Knowledge of Workday software and employee self-service platforms
- Classification and Compensation experience in a public agency environment
