Benefits Manager

City of Odessa • Odessa, TX

1d

About The Position

The Benefits Manager oversees the strategic development, implementation, and management of the organization's self-funded [non-ERISA] health benefit plans. This role is responsible for ensuring that benefits programs align with organizational goals and comply with applicable regulations. The Benefits Manager collaborates with HR, Finance, and external vendors to optimize benefit offerings and enhance employee satisfaction. Key responsibilities include monitoring program performance, managing vendor relationships, analyzing benefits trends, and identifying improvement opportunities to support employee well-being and organizational objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, Master's degree preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in benefits management, with a focus on self-funded plans.
• A combination of education and relevant experience equivalent to the above may be considered.
• Strong knowledge of self-funded benefits, compliance regulations, and best practices.
• Experience in vendor management and contract negotiations.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proficient in benefits administration software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Familiarity with healthcare cost management strategies.
• Experience with data analytics and reporting

Nice To Haves

• Certification in employee benefits (e.g., CBP, CEBS, PHR, SPHR) is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage self-funded non-ERISA health benefit plans, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness programs.
• Continuously assess and enhance benefits offerings based on employee needs, market trends, and organizational goals.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations and guidelines governing self-funded plans.
• Stay updated on changes in federal and state laws affecting benefits plans and adjust programs as necessary.
• Identify, select, and manage relationships with third-party vendors, including third-party administrators (TPAs), insurance brokers, and wellness program providers.
• Negotiate contracts and service agreements to ensure optimal pricing and services.
• Analyze benefit utilization and claims data to assess the effectiveness of programs and identify opportunities for cost savings and improvements.
• Prepare regular reports on plan performance and present findings to senior management.
• Develop and implement communication strategies to educate employees about their benefits options and promote program participation.
• Organize and conduct benefits orientation sessions and open enrollment activities.
• Collaborate with Finance to develop and manage the benefits budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability of programs.
• Monitor and evaluate program costs to identify trends and implement cost-control measures.
• Collaborate with Finance and Legal to develop and manage the benefits budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and program sustainability.
• Serve as a point of contact for employee inquiries regarding benefits and assist with resolution of issues.
• Develop and promote wellness initiatives to enhance employee health and engagement.
• Collaborate with external vendors to implement and measure the effectiveness of wellness programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager