Benefits Manager Job in Oakland, California US

Benefits Manager

Benefits Manager I am looking for a Benefits Manager for the Oakland bay area. This person will have minimal supervision, the person in this role will have responsibility for managing a full range of health and welfare benefit programs for employees Our Benefits Manager will ensure that our programs enhance our ability to attract and retain employees as well as ensure we maintain a terrific and compliant work environment and high performance culture. This is an excellent opportunity to share your expertise and knowledge within a growing and exciting sports organization that values your initiative, creativity and drive for results. This newly created position is located in Oakland, CA and reports directly to the Vice President, Human Resources. Key Responsibilities Oversees all benefits plans, administration and renewals including health and welfare, 401k, LOAs, COBRA and workers compensation programs; responsible for compliance, discrimination testing, and invoice auditing/reporting Partners with and manages relationships with benefits brokers, carriers, vendors and subject matter experts ensuring delivery of high quality programs in accordance with industry best practices and legal compliance Keeps abreast of industry and market trends, benefits related technology, labor law, and healthcare reform initiatives. Benchmarks programs and recommends changes and enhancements to ensure our offerings are robust and remain competitive Serves as first point of contact for employee inquiries and as liaison between plan administrators and brokers to resolve issues Manages open enrollment and annual renewal process including strategic planning, broker and Wellness Fair event planning and communications Develops communication plans to effectively promote benefits programs and to enhance employee understanding. Reviews, updates and fine-tunes benefits orientation on a regular basis Maintains employee records and HRIS/database; ensures data accuracy and provides regular reporting; monitors staff eligibility changes and ensures timely staff notification and updates to Payroll Administers background investigations and assists in managing various employee relations issues Required Experience, Skills Competencies A Bachelors degree, preferably in business administration or human resource management 5 to 7 years experience in benefits management 3+ years experience with HRIS systems Subject matter expert with solid understanding of federal and state laws as they apply to administration of health, welfare and 401k programs, LOAs, COBRA, worker¿s compensation and compliance issues Proficient with Microsoft Office suite and advanced skills in Excel Ability to maintain a high level of professionalism in dealing with confidential and sensitive issues A solutions-oriented self-starter with strong attention to detail and ability to see the big picture Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to communicate with employees at all levels within the organization * * * * * Competitive compensation and benefits package provided