Benefits Manager (1099 Contract, Part-Time)

Cerebral

2d•$40 - $45•Remote

About The Position

Cerebral is seeking a dynamic and experienced 1099 contract Benefits Manager to join our People Team part-time, in a fully-remote environment. This independent contractor role will oversee the end-to-end execution and continuous improvement of employee benefits and leave of absence programs. Success in this role requires a proactive self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced environment, collaborates cross-functionally with ease, and brings a solution-focused, can-do attitude. You’ll play a key part in shaping the employee experience while ensuring operational excellence and compliance. This is a 1099 independent contractor position working a minimum of 20 hours per week at a rate of $40 - 45 per hour.

Requirements

3+ years of experience in benefits administration and LOA programs, with 401(k) experience preferred.
Proven ability to manage day-to-day operations, including vendor relationships, compliance, and employee engagement.
Deep knowledge of benefits and leave-related compliance (ACA, FMLA, ADA, NDT, 401(k) audits, and Form 5500).
Experience in account reconciliations between vendor statements and payroll systems to ensure accuracy of employee withdraws and vendor payments; collaboration with Accounting team to ensure appropriate GL balances
Strong analytical and project management skills; capable of prioritizing and delivering across multiple initiatives.
Clear, confident communicator able to explain complex benefit topics to diverse audiences.
Data-driven decision-maker with strong problem-solving abilities.

Nice To Haves

Experience driving process improvements in LOA programs.
Skilled in managing benefits for variable-hour and piecework employees preferred.
Proficient in HRIS platforms (UKG/UltiPro preferred) and Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides).
Professional certifications (CEBS, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or similar).

Responsibilities

Oversee the implementation of health, wellness, and retirement benefit programs.
Drive annual renewals and vendor RFPs, analyzing proposed changes for cost and business impact.
Conduct audits, surveys, and analysis on demographics, utilization, and program effectiveness to inform decisions.
Oversee day-to-day administration of benefits programs, including enrollment, vendor management, employee inquiries and regulatory compliance.
Manage LOA programs (FMLA, statutory leave), coordinating with payroll for accurate tracking and pay continuity.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including ACA, COBRA, ERISA, and HIPAA.
Partner with HR, payroll, finance, and external vendors to deliver seamless benefits and LOA operations.
Lead retirement plan administration and coordinate 401(k) audits and NDT testing.
Develop and deliver benefits education strategies for new hires, open enrollment, and year-round engagement.
Create clear, accessible employee communications that empower informed decision-making.
Identify key metrics and outcomes to measure program success; report insights to senior leadership.