Benefits Manager- Hybrid

Benefits Manager – Temporary (possible to hire) – San Rafael - $75-85/hour- Hybrid

Our Central Marin client is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Temporary Benefits Manager to join their team for a long-term engagement. This is an exclusive opportunity to contribute significantly to a dynamic HR department during a period of increased workload and potential organizational development. This is a temporary position through the end of the year, with the possibility for it to evolve into a permanent role based on company needs and the successful temp performance.

This role oversees all aspects of employee benefits administration for a diverse workforce of over 1000+ employees. This role commands a strong and decisive leader with the ability to effectively manage a team and navigate complex union environments. The ideal candidate will be able to hold their own, and possess a deep understanding of benefits compliance, and contract management.

• Start: ASAP

• Duration: Ongoing, possible temp-to-hire with the right fit

• Location: 100% onsite in San Rafael, close to SMART train

• Schedule: Monday through Friday schedule normal business hours

Benefits Manager Responsibilities:

• Supervise and mentor a team of four

• Manage and administer a complex benefits program encompassing multiple lines of insurance and dozens of contracts.

• Possess a strong understanding of benefits compliance and ensure adherence to all relevant regulations.

• Lead and participate in union negotiations, effectively representing the company's interests while fostering positive labor relations.

• Implement changes to benefits programs, demonstrating the ability to push back diplomatically when necessary, particularly in sensitive situations (e.g., requests for non-standard benefits).

• Manage the annual open enrollment process, ensuring smooth and efficient execution.

• Effectively manage day-to-day benefits ; Serve as a primary point of contact for complex benefits inquiries and escalations.

• Lead and manage benefits-related initiatives and projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.

• Navigate the political landscape within a unionized environment, demonstrating the ability to de-escalate sensitive situations and find mutually agreeable solutions (e.g., negotiating benefit requests from union representatives).

Benefits Manager Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a Benefits Manager

• Extensive experience supervising a team

• Deep understanding of employee benefits administration, compliance, relevant legislation.

• Experience with union negotiations and labor relations in a complex a plus

• Demonstrated ability to manage a high volume of benefits contracts and a diverse range of insurance plans.

• Strong understanding of benefits compliance requirements.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and de-escalate challenging situations.