Benefits Partner

Benefits Partner

We are seeking an experienced, detail-oriented and proactive Benefits Partner to manage and support our employee benefits programs. This role is responsible for overseeing the administration of employee benefits, including health and welfare programs, leave of absence, retirement plans (with a strong focus on 401(k) plan administration), employee communication, solving complex escalations and coordinating open enrollment processes. The ideal candidate will serve as a trusted partner to employees, human resources and leadership, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and enhancing the overall employee experience.

This role is based in Raleigh, NC

Key Responsibilities:

• Administer and manage the company's employee benefits programs, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, wellness programs, etc.
• Oversee the full cycle of 401(k) plan administration, including participant enrollment, contributions, plan compliance, recordkeeping, investigation, handling escalations, reporting and liaising with third-party vendors.
• Coordinate and lead the annual open enrollment process for all benefits plans, including communication, education, and enrollment support.
• Design, implement and communicate new benefits initiatives, programs, processes, etc.
• Project manage multiple benefits projects from concept to completion, meeting deadlines, budgets, communication and organizational standards
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employees regarding benefits inquiries, issues, escalations and resolution.
• Ensure and monitor regulatory compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations related to employee benefits (e.g., ERISA, COBRA, ACA, NDT, etc.).
• Maintain accurate benefits records, reports, and documentation.
• Partner with HR team and external vendors to ensure smooth benefits operations.
• Develop and deliver benefits communication materials and training sessions.
• Support audits and reporting related to benefits programs.
• Analyze benefits data to improve effectiveness, efficiency, and cost control.
• Identify opportunities for program and process improvements, significantly elevating plan administration
• Continuously monitor industry trends and best practices to recommend enhancements to benefits offerings.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in human resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
• 4 to 6+ years of experience in benefits administration, including 401(k) plan administration.
• Strong knowledge of employee benefits laws and regulations.
• Experience managing open enrollment processes and benefits communications.
• Proficiency with Benefits, HRIS and Payroll administration systems and platforms.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Strong critical thinking abilities with a sense of urgency for time sensitive matters
• Strong project management with experience leading broad based complex projects.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills.
• Intermediate Excel skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional certification such as Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) or SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP.
• Experience working with third-party 401(k) providers and vendors
• Experience managing 3rd party Benefits Administration Partner
• Canada and Latin America Benefits Administration
• Experience implementing new vendors, technology and programs