Benefits Manager

Job Summary

The Benefits Manager is responsible for the strategic oversight, administration, and continuous improvement of the organization's health, welfare, retirement, and leave of absence programs across the United States while supporting the development and management of benefits relationships in Canada and Mexico.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead the design, administration, and continuous improvement of U.S. health, welfare, and retirement benefit programs
• Evaluate benefit programs annually to ensure competitiveness, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with company objectives
• Analyze utilization, enrollment, claims, and market data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement
• Develop recommendations for benefit plan changes, enhancements, and cost-containment initiatives
• Lead annual benefits planning, renewal, and open enrollment processes
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all U.S. benefits brokers, carriers, consultants, and third-party administrators
• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with insurance carriers, retirement plan providers, and benefits vendors
• Manage vendor performance through regular service reviews, audits, reporting, and contract evaluations
• Negotiate with vendors and carriers to secure favorable pricing, service levels, and plan designs
• Establish and maintain relationships with benefit providers, brokers, consultants, and vendors in Canada and Mexico
• Partner with local HR, payroll, and business leaders to support benefit program administration and compliance in each country
• Evaluate opportunities to improve benefit offerings and employee experience across international operations
• Stay informed on evolving benefits regulations and market practices in Canada and Mexico
• Oversee company leave of absence programs
• Partner with the organization's third-party leave administrator to ensure compliant and consistent administration of FMLA and related leave programs
• Review leave metrics, trends, and vendor performance to drive continuous process improvements
• Provide guidance to managers and employees regarding leave policies and procedures
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA, Section 125 regulations, retirement plan regulations
• Coordinate required filings, notices, audits, and plan documentation
• Partner with legal counsel, brokers, and vendors regarding compliance matters and regulatory updates
• Monitor legislative developments and recommend necessary updates to programs and policies
• Develop and execute employee benefits communication strategies
• Create and oversee educational materials, presentations, and resources that improve employee understanding and utilization of benefits programs
• Support benefit-related training for managers and employees
• Lead benefits communications during open enrollment and throughout the year
• Directly supervise and develop a Benefits Administrator
• Establish goals, priorities, and performance expectations for the benefits team
• Provide coaching, training, and professional development opportunities
• Foster a high level of customer service and operational excellence within the benefits function
• Utilize data analytics to support strategic decision-making and program enhancements
• Prepare reports and presentations for leadership

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of employee benefits regulations and compliance requirements
• Understanding of retirement plan administration and fiduciary responsibilities
• Knowledge of leave laws and accommodation processes
• Strong analytical and financial acumen
• Excellent vendor management and negotiation skills
• Ability to evaluate market trends and develop strategic recommendations
• Strong project management and organizational skills
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Advanced proficiency with HRIS, benefits systems, Microsoft Excel, and reporting tools
• Strong leadership, coaching, and relationship-building abilities

Additional Qualifications, Certifications, Etc.

• CEBS, CBP, SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR, or related certifications preferred

Why RailPros?

• A People First Culture (Caring)
• A Workplace Where Your Voice Matters (Sharing)
• A Company Invested in Your Growth (Progress)
• An Innovative, Industry Leading Environment (Innovation)
• Comprehensive Health Insurance
• Additional Coverage Plans
• Legal Shield, ID Shield, Pet Insurance
• Life & Disability Insurance
• Retail Savings
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Wellness Programs
• Discount Programs
• Company Merchandise Allowance
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
• Professional Development
• Culture & Recognition
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Professional & Career Growth
• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)