Ascend - Benefits Manager

Job Title: Benefits Manager Status: Full-Time / Exempt Department: Human Resources Reports To: Director, Compensation & Benefits Role Type: Hybrid SUMMARY The Benefits Manager is responsible for the administration, compliance, and daily operations of the organization's employee benefits programs. This role oversees relationships with benefits vendors, manages benefits administration platforms, conducts audits and compliance reporting, and ensures employees receive accurate and timely support regarding benefit plans. The Benefits Manager partners with HR, Payroll, Finance, and external vendors to deliver effective and compliant benefits programs that enhance the employee experience. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Manage the administration of all employee benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, retirement, leave programs, wellness initiatives, and voluntary benefits. Oversee benefits enrollment, eligibility verification, qualifying life event processing, and COBRA administration. Provide guidance to employees regarding benefit programs, eligibility, claims issues, and enrollment processes. Develop and deliver employee education materials and benefits communications. Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, and other benefits-related requirements. Prepare reports and documentation for internal and external audits. Serve as the primary liaison for benefits carriers, brokers, third-party administrators, retirement plan providers, COBRA administrators, and other benefits vendors. Manage vendor relationships and service-level agreements to ensure quality service delivery. Lead annual benefits planning, budgeting, and renewal processes. Analyze benefits data and trends to identify opportunities for operational improvements. Support open enrollment planning, employee meetings, and benefits-related training sessions. Conduct regular audits of employee benefit records and transactions within HRIS and vendor systems to ensure the accuracy of benefit eligibility, enrollments, deductions, billing and vendor data. Partner with Payroll to ensure proper deductions and reporting. Monitor benefit plan performance and recommend program improvements when appropriate. Coordinate system updates, file transmissions, and integration testing between HRIS, payroll, and vendor platforms. Reconcile benefits invoices and ensure accurate employee and employer contributions. Maintain plan documents, employee communications, and required regulatory filings. Investigate and resolve complex benefits inquiries and escalated concerns. Analyze benefits data and trends to identify opportunities for operational improvements. Develop and maintain procedures related to benefits administration and compliance. Support special projects related to benefits strategy, vendor transitions, and system implementations. Perform other duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and ability required. Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in human resources, Business Administration, Finance, or related field required. CEBS, SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP, PHR/SPHR, or related certification preferred. 5+ years of progressive experience in benefits administration or total rewards. 2+ years of experience managing benefit vendors and compliance programs. Experience conducting benefits audits, reporting, and data reconciliation. Strong knowledge of HRIS and benefits administration systems. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Comprehensive knowledge of employee benefit plans and regulatory requirements. Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and reconcile complex data. Experience managing multiple vendor relationships and contracts. Proficiency with HRIS, payroll systems, and Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel. Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information. Strong project management and process improvement capabilities. Physical Requirements Prolonged sitting and computer use. Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds. Work Environment Primarily office-based with possible hybrid flexibility. Regular attendance and punctuality required. Occasional after-hours work may be required during payroll cycles or year-end. Disclaimer This job description outlines general duties and responsibilities and is not an exhaustive list. Duties may be modified to meet organizational needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr