Director, Americas Benefits

Applied Materials • Austin, TX

3d • $176,000 - $242,000

About The Position

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world – like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world. The Director of Benefits, Americas Region is responsible for consistent and compliant administration of all US benefit health & welfare, retirement, time off, leaves of absence, and wellness programs, including management of our onsite health and fitness centers. This role also leads the design of benefit programs across Canada and Costa Rica, with administration managed locally. As a key member of the Global Total Rewards team, the Director partners with internal partners and external vendors to deliver a modern employee experience and programs, aligned with business objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business, or related field (master’s preferred).
• 10+ years in HR with at least 5+ years in benefits leadership and 3+ years managing teams.
• Deep expertise in U.S. benefits and retirement plans (401(k) and Deferred Compensation); experience with Canadian and Costa Rican benefits preferred but not required.
• Strong background in design, administration and compliance of health and welfare, retirement, and leave of absence programs.
• Strategic thinking with ability to influence at all levels.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage vendor partners.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
• Proven vendor management and budget oversight experience.
• Ability to thrive in a global, matrixed environment and guide through ambiguity.

Nice To Haves

• High-tech industry experience.
• Multi-national benefits management exposure.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the Managing Director, Global Benefits, to develop and implement a comprehensive benefits strategy for the Americas region, ensuring alignment with global Total Rewards philosophy and local market practices.
• Influence senior leadership on benefits initiatives that support talent attraction, retention, and engagement.
• Oversee administration of health (medical, dental, vision), retirement (401(k), deferred compensation), tax advantage (HSA, FSA), risk (life, AD&D, disability) paid time off, wellness, and leave of absence programs.
• Manage annual enrollment processes and ensure accurate, timely execution of all benefits operations.
• Lead due diligence and integration of benefits-related M&A and divestiture activities
• Ensure adherence to federal, state, and local regulations, including ERISA, ACA, and other applicable laws.
• Manage required filings (e.g., Form 5500), plan documents, SPDs, and non-discrimination testing.
• Negotiate and manage vendor relationships to optimize cost, quality, and service delivery.
• Monitor benefits trends and provide data-driven insights for pricing, cost forecasting, and plan design.
• Drive clear, engaging communication and support strategies to educate on benefits programs
• Champion wellness initiatives, including management of onsite health and fitness centers, mental health resources, and financial well-being.
• Lead and develop U.S.-based team of benefits professionals, fostering collaboration and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers.
• We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company.
• At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees