Benefits and Compensation Manager

Overview
This leadership role oversees the organization’s full spectrum of compensation and benefits programs, including compliance with federal contractor requirements (such as the Service Contract Act). The Manager is accountable for strategic planning, daily operations, and continuous improvement of medical, dental, vision, retirement, and leave programs. They also guide compensation analysis, support leave administration (FMLA, FAMLI, ADA), and direct a team that helps employees access resources that promote personal and professional growth.

• Serve as the go-to expert on benefit policies, systems, and employee questions.

• Manage daily operations of benefit plans, ensuring effective support for staff across the organization.

• Regularly evaluate the competitiveness of offerings and recommend updates that balance employee needs with cost effectiveness.

• Oversee vendor contracts and relationships, ensuring service levels and compliance are met.

• Collaborate with HRIS, Payroll, Finance, and Risk to ensure smooth execution of benefit programs.

• Develop clear communication tools and training for employees and managers regarding benefit programs.

• Lead open enrollment efforts, including system testing, payroll coordination, vendor file accuracy, and employee education.

• Integrate wellness initiatives into the broader benefits strategy.

• Collect and analyze data for renewal discussions, audits, and required filings (e.g., 5500s).

• Monitor federal and state regulations (ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, etc.) to ensure plan compliance.

• Manage audits, ensure data integrity, and maintain all required plan documentation.

• Oversee benefits for employees working under federal service contracts, ensuring correct application of wage determinations and fringe benefits.

• Supervise leave administration for FMLA, FAMLI, ADA, and other applicable programs.

• Partner with managers and employees on accommodation requests and modified work schedules.

• Stay current on state and federal leave laws, ensuring consistency and compliance.

• Lead a small team dedicated to helping employees navigate barriers to success, including financial, personal, and professional challenges.

• Act as subject matter resource on internal and external support benefits available to staff.

• Conduct salary benchmarking, market analysis, and compensation studies to maintain equitable pay practices.

• Review and approve pay bands and classifications for new and existing positions.

• Partner with Payroll and Benefits teams to align compensation with overall HR and organizational strategies.

• Ensure compliance with laws such as FLSA, Equal Pay Act, and wage transparency legislation.

• Provide leadership on compensation planning related to wage increases, minimum wage changes, and structural pay adjustments.

• Directly manage staff responsible for benefits administration, leave/accommodation management, and employee resource navigation.

• Provide coaching, training, and professional development for team members.

• Oversee recruitment, performance management, and employee relations within the function.

Education & Credentials

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field required (equivalent experience considered).

• CEBS or similar credential strongly preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of three years managing benefits programs, including plan design, open enrollment, and vendor relations.

• Hands-on experience with compensation analysis and survey participation.

• Demonstrated knowledge of medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and retirement plans.

• Solid background with federal compliance (ERISA, ACA, SCA, HIPAA, ADA, FMLA, etc.).

• Proven track record of successful project management and regulatory audits.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical, reporting, and financial acumen.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain complex benefit concepts.

• Advanced proficiency with MS Excel, Word, Outlook, and HRIS platforms.

• Ability to lead a team, manage vendor relationships, and influence organizational decision-making.