Benefit Operations Lead

Job Description

Job Description

Position Description: ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

BENEFITS
\tServe as the HRIS benefits SME, leading troubleshooting, issue resolution, and continuous improvement of benefits compliance, system functionality, and documented processes. Develop and maintain training materials for team members.
\tDevelop best practices and quality assurance tools for ongoing operational use.
\tComplete assigned implementation tasks, maintain project plans, and support new client setups as required.
\tManage all client and worksite employee benefit inquiries and requests.
\tOversee all benefit changes with carriers via EDI, brokers, or portals; process dependent aging events.
\tConfigure and monitor EDI files, coordinating with vendors to resolve errors promptly.
\tComplete monthly carrier reporting for self-bill plans and perform monthly benefit reconciliations by established deadlines.
\tLead internal communication on carrier changes to ensure accurate, timely payments.
\tMonitor Evidence of Insurability (EOI) processes for accurate setup and timely follow-through.
\tManage life-event enrollments and process QMCSOs.
\tDrive benefits compliance projects, including required filings, ERISA wraps, and 125 plan documentation.
\tOversee COBRA processes with outsourced vendors to ensure timely, accurate notices.
\tServe as lead sponsor for Open Enrollment for master and client plans, including plan/rate setup or QA, contribution review, testing, issue resolution, enrollment posting, and payroll QA.
\tMonitor 125 plan compliance, including HSA limits and policy conflicts; manage HSA match setup at client and employee levels.
\tSupport ACA monitoring throughout the year and complete client ACA reporting accurately and on time.
\tManage key vendor relationships with accountability and partnership.
\tReview year-end project plans from a benefits and compliance perspective, add tasks as needed, and complete assigned responsibilities.
RETIREMENT
\tServe as the HRIS retirement SME, leading troubleshooting, issue resolution, and ongoing improvements in retirement compliance, system functionality, and documented processes. Develop and maintain training materials for team members.
\tEstablish best practices and create quality assurance tools for ongoing use.
\tComplete assigned implementation tasks and keep project plans current.
\tLead introductions and oversee implementation of the Multiple Employer Plan (MEP) for retirement.
\tManage post-implementation transitions for clients moving onto the Connectify MEP.
\tApprove weekly contribution funding requests.
\tManage forfeitures in coordination with the recordkeeper.
\tReview payroll variance files upon receipt, identifying discrepancies and communicating required corrections to the recordkeeper.
\tComplete year-to-date retirement reconciliations monthly by agreed-upon deadlines.
\tManage the annual retirement audit process and ensure timely review and submission of Form 5500.
\tProcess retirement register adjustments, including independent QA on all post-entry updates.
\tManage the retirement recordkeeper relationship with strong accountability and partnership focus.
\tReview the year-end project plan from a retirement and compliance standpoint, add tasks as needed, and complete assigned deliverables.
GENERAL
\tComplete assigned metrics reporting and system audits accurately and on schedule.
\tRespond to internal and external client inquiries promptly, delivering clear solutions and providing self-service guidance when appropriate.
\tProvide timely, high-quality support to worksite employees (WSEs) via phone and email.
\tDocument key processes to ensure consistency, clarity, and role redundancy.
\tMaintain strong organization and actively manage daily responsibilities and priorities.
\tAdhere to service-level agreements (SLAs), meet deadlines, and consistently follow through on commitments.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:
\tBachelors degree in technical field.
\tFour or more years of benefits and/or retirement plan administration experience.
\tPEO experience preferred
REQUIRED SKILLS:
\tStrong HRIS proficiency with the ability to troubleshoot issues, optimize workflows, and improve processes.
\tExcellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
\tHigh attention to detail with strong comfort working with data, audits, and reconciliations.
\tExceptional communication and client service skills, with the ability to explain complex topics clearly.
\tProven ability to manage deadlines, prioritize tasks, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
\tDemonstrated success partnering with all levels of management and team members.
\tStrong commitment to compliance, accuracy, and quality.
\tCollaborative, relationship-oriented, and kind in approach.
\tPositive attitude, strong ownership mindset, and willingness to take initiative.