Benefits Director
Category: Exempt
Pay Grade: E35
Job Code: 20286
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.
JOB SUMMARY
Performs highly responsible executive work directing the various functions of the benefits department within the County. Leads, organizes, directs, and coordinates the day-to-day operations of the department, including responsibility for the resource allocation, budgeting, and personnel. Plans, directs, and supervises the work of the professional staff engaged in benefits activities. Responsible for designing, implementing, and managing comprehensive benefits programs for County employees. Collaborates with the County Administrators and elected officials, as well as other leadership staff to resolve complex issues related to the County’s benefits programs. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Chief Human Resources Officer.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS (examples, not all inclusive)
- Develop and administer employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, wellness initiatives, and other perks;
- Evaluate existing benefits offerings and recommend enhancements or changes to improve competitiveness and cost-effectiveness;
- Partner with internal leaders and employee groups to develop and maintain effective partnerships with all of the stakeholders;
- Partner with external vendors, brokers, and consultants to negotiate contracts, analyze plan performance, and stay informed about industry trends and best practices;
- Lead communication efforts to educate employees about their benefits options, enrollment processes, and related policies;
- Lead the operational delivery of benefits including the interaction of all databases and maintenance of records;
- Focus on creating and maintaining a positive employee experience and having the appropriate benefits in place to support employees at all life stages;
- Oversee compliance with federal and state regulations governing employee benefits, such as ERISA, ACA, and HIPAA;
- Provide guidance and support to HR team members and managers regarding benefits-related inquiries, issues, and escalations;
- Analyze data and metrics to assess the effectiveness of benefits programs and make data-driven decisions to optimize outcomes;
- Supervises the benefits manager which includes creating goals, objectives, and accountability, developing individual Personal Development Plans and contributing to performance management for employees;
- Directs the development and negotiation of contracts with service providers and develops performance and quality standards for same;
- Participates in key strategic business and action plans and executes for desired results;
- Provides and initiates recommendations, presentations, and reports on benefits-related functions;
- Directs, supports, and guides managers and subordinates in project development;
- Performs other related job duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
Ten (10) years of professional benefits administration experience that includes five (5) years of responsible management or supervisory experience; or a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and six (6) years of experience as described above; or a Master’s degree in a related field and four (4) years of experience as described above; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.
Special Qualifications:
- CEBS, SHRM-SCP, or other relevant HR certifications are strongly preferred.
- Florida Driver’s License or Florida Commercial Driver’s License and endorsement, if any.
- Assignment to work a variety of work schedules including compulsory work periods in special, emergency, and/or disaster situations.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Knowledge of the principles, practices, and regulations of benefits administration and program oversight;
- Knowledge of budget and accounting principles, practices, and procedures, as applied in a large organization;
- Knowledge of policies, procedures, and practices of benefits programs including health insurance, retirement plans, wellness initiatives, and other perks;
- Knowledge of principles and techniques of effective communication;
- Knowledge of benefits administration principles and practices;
- Skill in advanced leadership techniques and practices to evaluate and determine organizational goals and objectives, maximizing effectiveness of benefit programs;
- Skill in team-building, developing a creative vision and strong communication;
- Ability to interpret data, identify trends, and develop actionable insights;
- Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization;
- Ability to maintain effective relationships with vendors, public officials, employees, and the general public;
- Ability to exercise sound independent judgment and tact;
- Ability to maintain effective working relationships with others;
- Ability to present programs and ideas clearly and concisely, in writing and orally, to small and large groups;
- Ability to work independently on complex and confidential tasks.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS
The work is light work which requires exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force to move objects. Additionally, the following physical abilities are required:
- Visual ability: Sufficient to effectively operate office equipment including copier, computer, etc.; and to read and write reports, correspondence, instructions, etc.
- Hearing ability: Sufficient to hold a conversation with other individuals both in person and over a telephone; and to hear recording on transcription device.
- Speaking ability: Sufficient to communicate effectively with other individuals in person and over a telephone.
- Mental acuity: Ability to make rational decisions through sound logic and deductive processes.
- Talking: Expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word including those activities in which they must convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately, loudly, or quickly.
- Repetitive motion: Substantial movements (motions) of the wrist, hands, and/or fingers.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Work is performed in a dynamic environment that requires sensitivity to change and responsiveness to changing goals, priorities, and needs.