Benefits and Leave Manager

Proficient Auto Logistics (PAL) is a leading specialized freight company focused on providing auto transportation and logistics services. Formed via IPO in May 2024, PAL combined five industry-leading operating companies, and has since acquired two additional operating companies. As a combined entity, we operate one of the largest auto transportation fleets in North America with 55 terminal locations and nearly 750 employees, a majority of whom are drivers. We offer a broad range of auto transportation and logistics services, primarily focused on transporting finished vehicles from automotive production facilities, marine ports of entry, or regional rail yards to auto dealerships around the country. We have developed a differentiated business model due to our scale, breadth of geographic coverage, and embedded customer relationships with leading auto original equipment manufacturing companies (OEMs). Job Summary The Benefits & Leave Manager is responsible for the administration, oversight, and continuous improvement of the Company’s benefits programs and employee leave processes. This role ensures effective delivery of self-funded benefits, coordination with third-party leave administrators, and consistent application of company policies. The position serves as the internal owner of benefits and leave outcomes, including claims coordination and vendor financial/process alignment, partnering closely with Payroll, HRIS, HR Business Partners (HRBP), and external vendors to ensure a seamless employee experience and compliant execution. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Manage administration of the Company’s benefits programs, including self-funded medical, dental, vision, and ancillary offerings, ensuring accurate eligibility, enrollment, and vendor coordination Manage relationships with benefits vendors, including TPAs, brokers, and stop-loss carriers, driving performance, issue resolution, and ongoing plan administration Oversee employee benefits experience, including handling escalations, resolving claims issues, and supporting employees through complex situations Coordinate and manage claims activity, including partnering with vendors on escalations, monitoring trends, and ensuring timely resolution of employee issues Ensure accurate and timely data exchange between the Company and benefits vendors, including eligibility feeds, enrollment updates, and related data integrations Ensure proper financial alignment with benefits vendors, including payroll deductions, premium reconciliation, funding requirements, reimbursements, and resolution of discrepancies in partnership with Payroll and Finance Execute annual open enrollment, including system configuration, coordination, employee support, and administration Own coordination of employee leave processes (e.g. FMLA, ADA, workers’ comp, STD, and applicable state leaves), in partnership with vendors, HR, Payroll, and internal stakeholders Maintain centralized tracking and visibility of all leave cases, including status, documentation, pay implications, and outstanding actions Partner with HRBPs and Payroll on leave, accommodation, and benefits-related matters, ensuring consistent, compliant handling, accurate pay treatment, and appropriate escalation Administer and interpret policies related to benefits, PTO, and leave, ensuring consistent application across the organization and escalating complex or high-risk situations as appropriate Develop and maintain documentation and standardized processes, identify and implement improvements to enhance employee experience, data accuracy, and operational consistency Support compliance requirements, including ACA reporting, plan documentation, audits, and regulatory obligations Other duties as assigned Qualifications 5–10+ years in benefits, leave administration, or HR operations roles. Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or related field preferred. Strong knowledge of benefits administration, including self-funded medical plans and vendor/TPA management. Deep familiarity with paid/unpaid employee leave programs and multi-state leave requirements Proven ability to operate in a highly execution-focused role, managing day-to-day administration and complex employee issues. Working knowledge of payroll impacts related to benefits and leave, including coordination with payroll teams and third-party processors. Understanding of benefits data flows and financial processes, including eligibility feeds, deductions, premium reconciliation, and vendor payments. Strong organizational and tracking capability, with the ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines simultaneously. Ability to interpret and apply HR policies consistently, with a focus on compliance and fairness. Experience working with third-party benefits and leave administrators, including oversight of processes and service quality. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to support employees and partner effectively across HR, Payroll, and operations. EEO Statement All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. #J-18808-Ljbffr