Manager Benefits Administration

ESCO Technologies seeks a highly motivated, results-oriented, and change‑embracing Manager of Benefits Administration to oversee, execute, and evolve the day‑to‑day operations of its employee benefits programs. Reporting to the Director of Benefits, this hands‑on role will lead the administration, communication, evolution, and compliance of benefits offerings, including health, retirement, and wellness programs with the highest degree of operational excellence. Partnering with a wide array of internal and external stakeholders, this position requires strong influence leadership, unwavering collaboration, high attention to detail, and in‑depth knowledge of benefits management and compliance regulations. Benefits Administration Oversee the administration of U.S. employee benefits programs, including health, life insurance, disability, wellness, and retirement plans. Ensure that all benefits programs comply with federal and state regulations, including ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, and FMLA. Serve as the point of contact for operational vendors and subsidiary HR resources, facilitating timely resolution of any issues related to benefits services. Manage/steward benefits enrollment and changes as appropriate in relevant HR and benefits systems. Benefits Communications & Employee Support Lead the development, collaboration, and execution of clear, concise benefits communication materials through digital and other media to maximally engage HR and employees about benefits offerings. Provide support and guidance to subsidiary HR resources to help them appropriately respond to employee inquiries regarding benefits plans, claims, eligibility, and coverage. Engage, advise, and guide subsidiary HR to equip them with benefits orientation session frameworks for new hires, acquisitions, and annual open enrollment meetings for existing employees. Compliance & Reporting Monitor and ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local benefits laws and regulations. Prepare and submit benefits‑related reports as required, including ACA reporting, 5500 filings, and other compliance‑related filings. Work with key stakeholders to review and update benefits plan documents and Summary Plan Descriptions (SPDs) annually. Leadership Informally lead, mentor, and develop a Benefits specialist who also reports to the Director of Benefits. Provide guidance and support to subsidiary HR colleagues and as appropriate directly to employees to resolve the more complex and sensitive benefits‑related inquiries and issues. Foster a collaborative environment to ensure high‑quality customer service and seamless benefits delivery to employees. Conduct regular training sessions to ensure new and existing resources are well‑equipped to handle all aspects of benefits administration with their local workforce. Proactively seek and identify opportunities to streamline benefits administration processes and improve overall efficiency with a keen eye to employee experience and cost synergies. Stay current on trends in benefits offerings and related HR practices and technology to enhance the employee experience. Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. (Required) Minimum of 7 years of direct or indirect experience in benefits administration, with at least 2 years in a team lead or management role. Professional certifications such as CEBS (Certified Employee Benefit Specialist), PHR (Professional in Human Resources), or SHRM‑CP (Society for Human Resource Management‑Certified Professional) are a plus. Skills & Knowledge Strong knowledge of benefits programs (health, wellness, retirement, disability, etc.) and relevant laws (ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, COBRA, etc.). Ability to seamlessly and thoughtfully balance the needs of the business and the employees. Experience and strong competence with HRIS platforms and/or benefits administration systems. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills. Outstanding written and verbal communication skills. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment with a high degree of agility. Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Desire and capacity to grow, develop, and progress into higher levels of responsibility in the organization. Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information. Excellent attention to detail and accuracy. Ability to collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including HR, Legal, and Finance. Compensation Information Base Salary Range: $125,000 - $140,000 USD (Annually) Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor. #J-18808-Ljbffr ETS-Lindgren GmbH