Benefits Manager

Benefits ManagerPosition Type Full Time Job Shift Day Education Level Graduate Degree or higher Travel Percentage Up to 25% Category People OperationsOverviewRailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail and transit industry. Driven by a passion for our people, clients, and communities, we are committed to solving our customers' challenges and earning their trust through teamwork, continuous improvement, and service excellence. As a people first organization, we prioritize the safety, well being, and growth of our employees, fostering a culture of caring and support. We believe that when our people thrive, our company thrives.Our mission is to enhance mobility, safety, and quality of life for residents, passengers, and partner companies. We do more than just provide services; we are constantly innovating and staying informed of industry developments to help our customers succeed. Join us in our shared goal of keeping America moving and ensuring customer satisfaction in an environment where your contributions are valued and your growth is encouraged. Apply now and become a part of our exciting journey!Job SummaryThe Benefits Manager is responsible for the strategic oversight, administration, and continuous improvement of the organization's health, welfare, retirement, and leave of absence programs across the United States while supporting the development and management of benefits relationships in Canada and Mexico. This role serves as the primary liaison with benefits brokers, carriers, retirement plan providers, and third-party vendors to ensure competitive, compliant, and employee-focused benefit offerings.The Benefits Manager partners closely with leadership to analyze market trends, evaluate program effectiveness, recommend enhancements, and implement benefit strategies that support employee well-being, retention, and organizational growth. The position oversees leave administration processes, manages vendor relationships supporting FMLA and other statutory leave programs.Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesLead the design, administration, and continuous improvement of U.S. health, welfare, and retirement benefit programsEvaluate benefit programs annually to ensure competitiveness, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with company objectivesAnalyze utilization, enrollment, claims, and market data to identify trends and opportunities for improvementDevelop recommendations for benefit plan changes, enhancements, and cost-containment initiativesLead annual benefits planning, renewal, and open enrollment processesServe as the primary point of contact for all U.S. benefits brokers, carriers, consultants, and third-party administratorsDevelop and maintain strong partnerships with insurance carriers, retirement plan providers, and benefits vendorsManage vendor performance through regular service reviews, audits, reporting, and contract evaluationsPartner with brokers and consultants to evaluate emerging benefit trends, legislative changes, and marketplace opportunitiesNegotiate with vendors and carriers to secure favorable pricing, service levels, and plan designsEstablish and maintain relationships with benefit providers, brokers, consultants, and vendors in Canada and MexicoPartner with local HR, payroll, and business leaders to support benefit program administration and compliance in each countryEvaluate opportunities to improve benefit offerings and employee experience across international operationsStay informed on evolving benefits regulations and market practices in Canada and MexicoOversee company leave of absence programsPartner with the organization's third-party leave administrator to ensure compliant and consistent administration of FMLA and related leave programsReview leave metrics, trends, and vendor performance to drive continuous process improvementsProvide guidance to managers and employees regarding leave policies and proceduresEnsure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, Section 125 regulations, retirement plan regulationsCoordinate required filings, notices, audits, and plan documentationPartner with legal counsel, brokers, and vendors regarding compliance matters and regulatory updatesMonitor legislative developments and recommend necessary updates to programs and policiesDevelop and execute employee benefits communication strategiesCreate and oversee educational materials, presentations, and resources that improve employee understanding and utilization of benefits programsSupport benefit-related training for managers and employeesLead benefits communications during open enrollment and throughout the yearDirectly supervise and develop a Benefits AdministratorEstablish goals, priorities, and performance expectations for the benefits teamProvide coaching, training, and professional development opportunitiesFoster a high level of customer service and operational excellence within the benefits functionUtilize data analytics to support strategic decision-making and program enhancementsPrepare reports and presentations for leadershipOccasional travel up to 15%Travel may include but not limited to RailPros office locations, broker or vendor meetings, leadership meetings, training and professional development programs or conferencesContribute to a positive, inclusive, and respectful workplace culture, free from behaviors that undermine morale, productivity, or organizational valuesUphold the organization's standards of integrity, accountability, and respect in all duties and interactionsAdhere to all company policies, procedures, and applicable laws and regulationOther duties as assigned or required to meet the business needsQualificationsStrong knowledge of employee benefits regulations and compliance requirementsUnderstanding of retirement plan administration and fiduciary responsibilitiesKnowledge of leave laws and accommodation processesStrong analytical and financial acumenExcellent vendor management and negotiation skillsAbility to evaluate market trends and develop strategic recommendationsStrong project management and organizational skillsExcellent communication and presentation skillsAdvanced proficiency with HRIS, benefits systems, Microsoft Excel, and reporting toolsStrong leadership, coaching, and relationship-building abilitiesBachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, Healthcare Administration, or related field required7+ years of progressive benefits administration experience3+ years of experience managing health and welfare benefits programsExperience managing 401(k) retirement plans and vendor relationshipsExperience managing leave of absence programsExperience managing benefits brokers, carriers, consultants, and external vendorsExperience supporting multi-state employers required3+ years supervisory experienceCEBS, CBP, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR, or related certifications preferredWhy RailPros? Build Your Career Where Culture Leads The WayA People First Culture (Caring): At RailPros, you're more than an employee; you're part of a team driven by genuine care and respect. Our Align29 pillar of Caring reflects our deep commitment to supporting your growth, well being, and success every step of the way.A Workplace Where Your Voice Matters (Sharing): Our Sharing culture encourages transparency, active dialogue, and collaboration across every level of the company.A Company Invested in Your Growth (Progress): Through continuous improvement of our systems, processes, and operations, our Progress pillar ensures you have the tools and support to excel.An Innovative, Industry Leading Environment (Innovation): Our Innovation pillar fuels creative problem solving, modern technology adoption, and breakthrough thinking that positions RailPros as a leader in the rail and transit space.Benefits & PerksComprehensive Health Insurance: Includes medical, dental, and vision coverage.Additional Coverage Plans: Accident plan, critical illness plan, and hospital indemnity with employee to family coverage.Legal Shield, ID Shield, Pet Insurance: Added protection for you...and your pets.Life & Disability Insurance: Employer provided coverage with additional voluntary options available.Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with employer match includes pre and post deduction options.Paid Time Off (PTO): With carryover each year.Paid Holidays: For full time employees.Wellness Programs: Access to wellness initiatives and resources.Discount Programs: Exclusive discounts on products and services.Company Merchandise Allowance: Company funded allowance for our online store.Health Savings Accounts (HSA): With employer match.Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA): Employer funded.Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): For dependent care expenses.