Manager, Employee Benefits

Role Overview

Amsted Industries is seeking a Manager, Employee Benefits to join our Total Rewards team in Chicago. In this role, you will lead the administration, compliance, communication, and continuous improvement of our employee benefits programs, helping ensure our offerings remain competitive, cost-effective, and aligned with business objectives. You will partner closely with HR, Finance, vendors, and business leaders to manage benefit programs, support strategic initiatives, enhance the employee experience, and navigate an evolving regulatory environment. This role serves as a key subject matter expert for benefits and compliance and is ideal for a professional who enjoys balancing strategy, analytics, and hands-on program management.

Responsibilities

Benefits Strategy and Administration:

Lead benefits system configuration and administration requirements
Manage the day-to-day administration of employee benefits programs, including medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, leave and disability, life insurance, retirement, wellness, and other perquisites
Evaluate and recommend new benefits programs that align with business objectives as well as enhance employee attraction, retention, and motivation
Participate in annual benefit planning, vendor negotiations, and renewal processes
Analyze benefits data to monitor program effectiveness, identify trends, and make data-driven recommendations for improvements
Collaborate with key stakeholders to understand the effectiveness of Amsted’s benefits offerings
Manage benefit program expenses and vendor invoicing while supporting budget planning, cost control, and financial stewardship
Support mergers, acquisitions, and business integrations by aligning and implementing employee benefit programs
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations regarding benefits
Stay current on industry trends and best practices
Monitor legislative and regulatory developments and assess their impact on benefit programs and organizational compliance
Policy Development and Compliance:

Partner with internal stakeholders and external vendors to develop, maintain, and enhance benefits policies and procedures
Lead technology and process improvement initiatives that enhance the employee experience and increase operational efficiency
Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, including but not limited to HIPAA, ERISA, ACA, MPHEA, CAA, FLSA, FMLA, Section 125 cafeteria plan requirements, state and local leave regulations
Manage benefits-related projects, system implementations, and continuous improvement initiatives from planning through execution
Coordinate annual compliance activities, filings, testing, and audits
Analyze claims, utilization, and enrollment data to identify trends, mitigate risks, and uncover opportunities for program optimization
Maintain plan documents, summary plan descriptions, notices, and administrative procedures
Partner with internal and external legal counsel on benefits-related compliance matters
Employee Communication and Support:

Serve as the primary subject matter expert and escalation point for complex benefits questions from employees, HR teams, and business leaders
Support the development, implementation, and communication strategies to educate employees and HR Managers about Amsted’s total well-being offerings
Lead annual open enrollment activities
Lead change management and communication efforts related to new programs, system enhancements, and regulatory updates
Conduct benefits orientation sessions and provide ongoing support
Vendor Management:

Support relationships with benefits providers and vendors, including but not limited to negotiating and managing contracts, ensuring cost-effective and high-quality service
Manage Amsted’s employee-facing benefits administration website, including being the first level support for Amsted’s subsidiaries
Partner with HRIS and payroll teams to ensure data integrity and successful integrations

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree is required
3+ years of progressive compensation and benefits experience
Strong knowledge of compensation and benefits laws and regulations
Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills
A plus for proficiency in HRIS and benefits administration software
A plus for certification such as CEBS (Certified Employee Benefit Specialist) or CCP (Certified Compensation Professional)
Exceptional ability to collaborate, provide technical support, and train team members
Strong problem solving/analytical skills with attention to detail and a high level of accuracy
Ability to work in a dynamic organization by balancing multiple priorities
Knowledge of laws related to human resources and payroll, including ERISA, FMLA, ADA, ACA, MPHEA, CAA, FLSA, Wage & Hour and EEO regulations
Ability to maintain confidentiality of information
Ability to work effectively, both independently and as part of a team, with initiative and accuracy

Compensation & Benefits:

Excellent base salary and targeted annual bonus structure
Comprehensive employee benefits package, including medical/dental/vision coverage, life and disability protection.
Participation (100% company paid) in Amsted Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP
Company 401k program match
Wellness reimbursement