AVP, Benefits Analyst II

Eastern Bank•Wakefield, MA

About The Position

The Benefits Analyst II plays a key role in delivering a high-quality benefits experience for employees. The position is responsible for managing the design, administration, analysis, and optimization of Eastern’s health, welfare, retirement, and wellness programs. Acting as a trusted subject matter expert, this role partners closely with HR leadership, payroll, finance, external vendors, and brokers to manage costs, ensure regulatory compliance and enhance employee experience. The Benefits Analyst II also serves as a mentor to other team members and is a key contributor to strategic benefits initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or related field
5–8+ years of progressive experience in benefits administration and analysis
Strong working knowledge of employee benefits, regulatory requirements, and compliance standards
Advanced analytical skills with the ability to interpret claims data, financial reports, and benefit metrics
Experience working with HRIS and benefits administration systems (e.g., Oracle, Workday, ADP or UKG)- Oracle highly preferred
Advanced proficiency in Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, data analysis) and PowerPoint
Excellent communication (written and oral) and interpersonal skills with the ability to explain complex topics in a clear and empathetic way
Strong organizational and project management skills
Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion

Responsibilities

Administer and oversee Eastern’s medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, voluntary benefit programs and wellness offerings
Have a working knowledge of retirement plan compliance and administration
Lead annual open enrollment beginning-to-end, vendor coordination, system readiness and employee communications
Assist in analyzing benefits cost, utilization, and participation data to identify trends, risks, and cost saving opportunities to improve value and manage spend
Partner with brokers and vendors on renewals, negotiations, audits, and issue resolution
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations (ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, Section 125, etc.)
Prepare and file required notices and reporting (e.g., 1095 C, and Form 5500 support)
Serve as go-to expert for complex employee benefits questions, escalations, and issue resolution
Collaborate with Payroll to ensure accurate benefits deductions, vendor billing, reconciliations and carrier payments
Act as system administrator and subject matter expert for the benefits module within Eastern’s Employee Hub (HCMS), including configuration, testing, carrier file feeds, and ongoing enhancements
Leverage technology (including AI) and data to streamline benefits administration and improve accuracy, efficiency, and employee experience
Create engaging benefits communications and educational materials for employees and managers
Serve as a benefits subject matter expert for the internal HR team, as well as employees
Contribute to special initiatives such as vendor RFPs, mergers and acquisitions and evolve the annual Wellness Program to drive engagement and support employee well-being
Continuously review administrative processes, identify improvement opportunities, and implement preventative solutions
Work with external vendors to ensure high levels of service and quality, processing accuracy, and compliance adherence
Manage all aspects of the annual employee service recognition program
Stay current on benefits trends, regulatory changes, and best practices through professional development and industry engagement