Benefits & Retirement Manager

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.


At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.


Here is what we offer:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

JOB PURPOSE:

The Manager, Benefits & Retirement is responsible for the overall administration, compliance, and strategic oversight of employee benefit and retirement programs, including health & welfare and defined benefit and defined contribution plans. This role serves as a key resource to employees, leadership, and vendors to ensure effective delivery, compliance, and optimization of all benefit offerings.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:

Role will supervise a Team of Benefits Analyst and/or Benefits Partners.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Position regularly collaborates with external vendors, internal HR partners, HU Hospital staff, and leads public-facing events to educate the university community on benefits, wellness programs, and related initiatives.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Assist in overseeing and manages the administration of all employee benefit and retirement programs, including health & welfare plans (medical, dental, vision, life, disability) and Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution plans (403(b), 457). Ensures effective service delivery, vendor performance, and operational efficiency.
• Ensures compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations (e.g., ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, FMLA), including oversight of government filings (e.g., Form 5500), audits, plan documents, and required notices for both benefits and retirement programs.
• Leads employee education and counseling efforts for the retirement programs, including retirement readiness. Serves as escalation point for complex participant inquiries.
• Oversees retirement and pension application processing, including eligibility review, benefit calculations, and coordination with actuaries to validate calculations and payment options.
• Administers and oversees processes related to QDROs, beneficiary claims, pension refunds, and monthly retirement payments, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Analyzes benefits and retirement data, trends, and discrepancies; supports audits; and develops recommendations to improve plan performance, cost efficiency, and employee experience.
• Supports annual open enrollment planning, benefits communications, and implementation of plan changes or enhancements.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Expert knowledge of federal and state laws governing employee benefits and retirement programs, including ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, FMLA, and QDRO requirements.
• Strong knowledge of both health & welfare benefit plans and defined benefit and defined contribution retirement plans.
• Knowledge of current industry trends, best practices, and regulatory changes in benefits and retirement programs.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply complex policies, regulations, and plan provisions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage diverse populations.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems and standard business software applications.
• Ability to manage a team of staff.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education: Associate Degree in a related field from an accredited college or university is required, combined with significant relevant experience. Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field is preferred. Experience: Minimum of eight (8) years of progressive experience in employee benefits and/or retirement plan administration, including health & welfare and defined benefit and defined contribution plans, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

Expected Salary Range: $100,000 - $109,000