Benefits Manager

Lead a people-first benefits program that supports those who serve Avondale and make a meaningful impact in public service. Position is open until filled. The first review of applications will be on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, and weekly thereafter. Essential Functions Lead the Benefits division and manage day-to-day operations and staff of the City’s Employee Benefit, Leave, Retirement, and Wellness programs for employees, retirees, and their eligible family members. Ensure programs, including absence and disability management (FMLA, ADA, etc.) and employee assistance services, align with the City’s core mission of Making Lives Better. Partner with brokers, agents, and other resources to identify the best programs for City employees. Develop long-term strategies for managing legally compliant employee benefit programs while maintaining compliance with City policy. Monitor and inform leadership on the potential impact of legislative proposals on the City-provided benefits. Manage third-party administrators/carriers responsible for plan claims and services. Monitor current benefit programs to identify opportunities for continuous improvement and/or enhancements. Develop, update, and maintain all benefits program-related process documentation. Serve as a member of the Human Resources leadership team and support improvements and implementations of HR operations and systems. Administer and support the maintenance of the employee benefits budget; prepare cost estimates for budget recommendations; submit budget justifications for modifications to the employee benefit programs; monitor the City’s Stop-Loss Insurance Programs and related procurement activities (RFP, CPA, etc.). Recommend policies and procedures, review and recommend amendments to plan documents; prepare educational and promotional materials for City Council, City employees, and the Employee Benefits Trust Board. Coordinate annual open enrollment of employee benefit programs; ensure all new hire, life events, and termination benefits changes and associated deductions are submitted accurately and timely; maintain benefits records and documentation, verify calculations and statistical data relative to premium, claims costs, and conduct audits to ensure accuracy of benefits deductions. Provide ongoing customer service to employees by answering benefits questions and addressing complex inquiries related to benefits policies and procedures; educate employees regarding City-provided benefits programs and eligibility; work with third-party support as needed to investigate and resolve coverage, claim, complex coding, administrative, and/or billing concerns. Act as the City’s subject matter expert in employee pension and deferred compensation retirement programs, including Public Safety Retirement Safety Program (PSRSP), Elected Official Retirement Program (EORP), Correctional Officer Retirement Plan (CORP), and Arizona State Retirement Plan (ASRS); monitor pension system enrollment, contributions, and applications for retirement. Manage the operations of board meetings, including the Employee Benefit Trust board, local retirement boards, and other employee committees; oversee administrative services to the Boards and ensure meetings occur with expected regularity. Perform other duties as assigned. To view the full job description and learn more about the responsibilities and qualifications, please click to view the Class Specification here. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Public Administration, or a closely related field. Master’s Degree in Human Resources, Public Administration, or a related field preferred. Five (5) years of experience in managing a specialized human resources program or area of responsibility related to benefits and wellness management, preferably in a government or municipal environment. Equivalent combination of education and job‑related experience may be considered on a year‑for‑year basis. Three (3) Years Of Supervisory Experience Is Required. Knowledge of ERISA, IRS, DOL, ACA, COBRA, and HIPAA requirements as they relate to benefit administration of medical, mental health, pharmacy, dental, vision, life, accidental death and dismemberment, short‑term disability, flexible spending, and health savings plans and programs. Knowledge of Arizona government employee pension systems and retirement plan programs, including Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution Plans. Knowledge of leave and disability management requirements and best practices for administering FMLA, ADA, and Craig Tiger Act programs. Knowledge and skill using HR technology to streamline processes and enhance user experience. A valid Arizona Operator's Driver License is required. PHR/SPHR or SHRM-CP certification preferred. Benefits The City of Avondale offers a comprehensive benefits package with outstanding health and wellness benefits, financial perks, work‑life balance, and more. Explore our Benefits Guide for full details! For additional information, visit our website. #J-18808-Ljbffr City of Avondale, AZ