Benefits Manager

Chapman University Careers•Irvine, CA

About The Position

The Benefits Manager is responsible for the overall administration, compliance, and continuous improvement of employee benefits programs. This role ensures the accuracy and integrity of benefits data, oversees vendor billing reconciliation, and maintains compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. This position reports to the Assistant Vice President of Compensation & Benefits, who provides strategic direction and oversight for the function. Partnering closely with the Assistant Vice President ( AVP ) of Compensation & Benefits, this role supports execution of the benefits strategy while proactively identifying risks, trends, and operational gaps. The Benefits Manager plays a critical role in building scalable processes, strengthening internal controls, and ensuring a high-quality employee experience across a multi-state workforce.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
7–10+ years of progressive experience in benefits administration, including compliance, audit, and reconciliation
Strong knowledge of federal and state benefits regulations ( ERISA , ACA , COBRA , HIPAA , FMLA )
Advanced experience with HRIS and benefits administration platforms (e.g., PeopleSoft, Workday, ADP , UKG )
Experience with retirement plan administration
Deep understanding of benefits regulations and compliance requirements, including ACA , ERISA , COBRA , Department of Labor ( DOL ), and applicable tax laws
Advanced knowledge of benefits administration and evolving market trends
Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving capabilities
Effective communication skills, with the ability to clearly translate complex concepts
Ability to identify risk and appropriately escalate issues
Highly organized, process-driven, and self-directed
Demonstrates a high level of accountability, discretion, and professionalism
Collaborative team player who fosters a positive, team-oriented environment
Demonstrates integrity, sound judgment, and strong decision-making abilities, with the ability to handle highly confidential and sensitive information
Process improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and continuous enhancement
Strong cross-functional collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively across teams

Responsibilities

Oversee the end-to-end administration of employee benefit programs, including health, welfare, retirement, and ancillary plans
Ensure accurate and timely processing of enrollments, life events, and terminations
Manage the annual open enrollment process, including system configuration, communications, and employee support
Maintain and optimize benefits administration within the HRIS and related systems
Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, including ERISA , ACA , COBRA , HIPAA , and FMLA
Prepare and manage required filings and reporting (e.g., Form 5500, ACA reporting)
Facilitate Non-Discrimination Testing for FSA
Maintain plan documents, policies, and audit-ready documentation
In partnership with the AVP , Compensation & Benefits provide oversight of the 401(k) plan, including governance, committee support, and annual filings
Manage regular audits of benefits data, payroll deductions, and eligibility to ensure accuracy and compliance
Reconcile vendor invoices against payroll and enrollment data; investigate and resolve discrepancies
Partner with Payroll and Finance to ensure accurate deductions and timely vendor payments
Track and analyze benefits-related financial activity, trends, and variances
Ensure accuracy, completeness, and integrity of employee benefits records across systems
Leverage data to identify risks, gaps, and opportunities for improvement
Manage relationships with brokers, carriers, and third-party administrators
Oversee vendor performance, contract compliance, and service delivery
Lead issue resolution and escalation of complex employee or system-related matters
Build, document, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Support system enhancements, integrations, and benefits-related projects
Establish and continuously improve benefits processes, metrics, and internal controls.
Partner with the AVP of Compensation & Benefits to support strategic initiatives and program enhancements
Monitor market trends and benchmark data to ensure competitiveness and fiscal responsibility
Proactively identify and escalate risks, trends, and operational concerns
Support communication strategies and employee education to improve understanding and utilization of benefits