Manager, Human Resources Benefits

Academy of Art University•Bentonville, AR

6d•$75,000 - $85,000•Remote

About The Position

Academy of Art University is seeking an experienced Human Resources professional to join their team as a Human Resources Benefits Manager. This role serves as the University’s subject matter expert for employee health and welfare benefits and 401(k) plans, managing programs for both California and out-of-state employees. The position involves close collaboration with the University’s benefits broker, Finance, Payroll, and HRIS teams to ensure compliance, efficiency, and alignment with University goals. The ideal candidate is solutions-oriented, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and can identify opportunities while aligning partnerships with organizational objectives. The Benefits Manager is responsible for the day-to-day administration of benefits programs and provides leadership to HR staff in delivering high-quality employee support. This is a fully remote role, requiring candidates to work 8am to 5pm PST.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field strongly preferred.
Experience managing a benefits program, including budget responsibility, in a for-profit organization.
Strong computer skills, including HRIS (Workday strongly preferred) and advanced Excel is a must.
Demonstrated leadership, coaching, and decision-making skills.
Strong attention to detail with proven auditing and compliance experience.
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with ability to work across all organizational levels.
Track record of managing multiple complex projects simultaneously.
Thorough knowledge of benefit plan design and federal/state regulations (HIPAA, COBRA, ACA, 401(k), Section 125).
Customer service mindset with strong problem-solving and partnership skills.
Ability to work independently and adapt to changing business needs in a remote environment.

Responsibilities

Act as subject matter expert for ACA, San Francisco Healthcare Security Ordinance, and University procedures.
Oversee compliance activities, including IRS 5500 reporting, 401(k) plan audits, non-discrimination testing, ACA reporting, and Medicare Part D notices.
Manage all 401(k) plan operations: enrollments, loans, distributions, and vendor partnerships.
Partner with Payroll to ensure accurate benefit deductions, contributions, and repayments.
Conduct monthly enrollment reconciliations across medical, dental, vision, life, COBRA, FSAs, and other plans.
Review, approve, and coordinate timely payment of benefit plan billing.
Lead annual Open Enrollment, including planning, system configuration, employee communications, and vendor integrations.
Maintain benefit plan documents, employee notices, and regulatory filings.
Recommend and implement process improvements and benefit strategies aligned with the University’s mission.