Senior Benefits Coordinator

Location: Birmingham, AL (on-site)

About the role

Vaco has been engaged to identify a Senior Benefits Coordinator for a large, Birmingham-based company. The Senior Benefits Coordinator will oversee the design, administration, and communication of employee benefits programs. The ideal candidate will have a comprehensive understanding of benefits regulations, strong analytical skills, and excellent communication abilities. As a Senior Benefits Coordinator, you will play a crucial role in ensuring our employees receive competitive and valuable benefits packages while maintaining compliance with legal requirements.

Responsibilities

• Benefits Program Management: Develop, implement, and manage employee benefits programs, including health insurance, dental insurance, retirement plans, wellness programs, and other related offerings. Evaluate and compare existing benefits plans to industry standards, making recommendations for improvements to enhance the overall employee experience. Collaborate with insurance brokers, vendors, and benefit providers to negotiate terms, rates, and coverage options.
• Compliance and Regulations: Stay up-to-date with federal, state, and local regulations related to employee benefits, ensuring company compliance and adjusting programs as needed. Prepare and file required government reports, such as Form 5500, ensuring accurate and timely submissions. Manage benefits-related audits and communicate with auditors as necessary.
• Employee Communication: Develop and execute effective communication strategies to educate employees about available benefits options, changes, and updates. Create informative materials, such as brochures, presentations, and digital content, to explain benefits programs and enrollment procedures.
• Enrollment and Administration: Coordinate benefits enrollment periods, ensuring a smooth and efficient process for new hires, current employees, and those experiencing life events that warrant changes. Maintain accurate benefits records and data, including enrollments, changes, and terminations, using HRIS and benefits administration software.
• Problem Solving and Issue Resolution: Address employee inquiries and concerns related to benefits, providing timely and accurate information. Investigate and resolve any discrepancies or issues related to benefits enrollment, coverage, or claims.
• Data Analysis: Analyze benefits utilization data, cost trends, and employee feedback to assess the effectiveness of existing programs and propose adjustments as necessary. Prepare reports and presentations to communicate insights and recommendations to leadership.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in benefits administration, with at least 2 years in a managerial or supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations related to employee benefits.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and understandable manner.
• Proficiency in HRIS and benefits administration software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen attention to detail.
• Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Proven negotiation