Benefits Manager

General Definition of Work

The benefits manager, under limited supervision, performs highly complex work with considerable decision-making discretion overseeing health benefits enrollment, leave administration, and benefits counseling for employees. Employee oversees delivery of services to employees and/or other targeted program participants or beneficiaries, sets and communicates program priorities and performance standards. Employee performs advanced and supervisory work to carry out Board of Education policies and procedures related to benefits administration under the direction of the Director of Benefits and Risk Management.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Salary/Status

NC 19 Salary Non-Certified Schedule/Full-time, 12 months

Reports To

Director of Benefits and Risk Management

Place of Work

The normal place of work is on the premises used by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Charlotte- Mecklenburg Schools reserves the right to require you to work at such other place(s) as it may reasonably require from time to time.

Essential Functions

• Adhere to all state, federal, and local laws, policies, and procedures
• Lead, manage, supervise, and evaluate assigned programs/staff
• Evaluate, recommend, and implement benefits program
• Provide overall management and leadership to the benefit administrators handling benefits, leave administration, absence management, and retirement
• Approve and audit payroll for employees on leave of absence and disability
• Analyze legislation and other federal and state regulatory requirements for defined benefits and defined contribution plans
• Interact and make recommendations during negotiations with external vendors and administrators to plan and coordinate the delivery of services, existing and new
• Oversee, administer, and participate in retirement planning and informational planning sessions with potential retirees
• Oversee new employee benefits ensuring employees are established in payroll and enrolled in health plan timely with accurate billing and proof of coverage
• Ensure that the benefits portions of the Personnel Policy Manual, employee literature and other internal/external communications are accurate and up to date
• Collaborate with insurance/benefit brokers and other third-party benefits consultants
• Serve as point of contact for all benefits related audits both internal and external
• Develop and recommend policies and procedures, manage the dissemination, interpretation and application of benefit related policies, and recommend exceptions
• Administer benefits for employees on FMLA or other leaves of absence using district absence policies, NC Department of Public Instruction policies and federal regulations
• Facilitate staff meetings and attend other related meetings as needed/required
• Complete local, state, or federal surveys and reports accurately and promptly
• Participate in professional development workshops and leadership training
• Create an inclusive environment with positive communication/public relations
• Perform related work as assigned or required

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Comprehensive in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles, practices, and procedures of public school system policies and human resources programs
• Comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and local regulatory requirements applicable to school system human resources programs
• Knowledge of state statutes, federal laws/rules, policies, and regulations regarding employee benefits
• Knowledge of FMLA, USERRA, WC, ACA, ADA and other federal, state and local benefits
• Skilled in technology with demonstrated ability to use spreadsheet software and word processing software
• Demonstrated problem solving and conflict resolution skills requiring independent judgment to appropriately apply knowledge of policy, employment laws and/or regulations
• Ability to maintain professional and emotional control under stress
• Ability to reflect appropriate response to situations, while maintaining a professional and personal demeanor
• Ability to learn and use specialized tools, equipment or software related to business needs
• Ability to evaluate staff
• Ability to implement local, state, and federal rules, guidelines, and procedures into daily business operations
• Ability to communicate effectively
• Ability to reason, make judgments, and maintain effective working relationships
• Ability to employ positive communication skills in all settings/mediums
• Ability to problem-solve utilizing sound judgment
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding school system business
• Ability to take initiative, work independently, and exercise sound judgement
• Ability to develop related charts, graphs, reports, and records pertaining to school planning and strategy
• Ability to conceptualize, initiate, monitor, and evaluate new and/or current programs
• Demonstrated ability to perform detailed work, planning, risk assessments, and associated risk mitigation actions
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a deadline-driven, rapidly changing team environment

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in risk management, human resources, or related area required
• Five (5) years' experience in public schools leave and benefits management preferred
• Equivalent combination of experience and education

Special Requirements

• Possess and maintain a valid Driver's License or ability to provide own transportation
• Travel to school district buildings and professional meetings