Benefits and Wellness Manager

The Benefits & Wellness Manager is responsible for the comprehensive administration, compliance, and continuous improvement of the County employee benefits and wellness programs. This role ensures accurate and timely processing of benefits transactions, manages vendor relationships, oversees billing and reconciliation processes, and delivers strategic wellness initiatives that support employee health, engagement, and organizational effectiveness.

The Manager serves as a subject matter expert and trusted advisor to leadership and employees on benefits, retirement, and wellness programs, while ensuring alignment with federal, state, and local regulations, including participation in the North Carolina Retirement Systems (NCRS).

Benefits Administration & Operations

• Administer all employee benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA/HSA, and voluntary benefits.
• Lead and manage the annual Open Enrollment process from planning through execution.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations including ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, and IRS requirements.

• Perform monthly benefits billing reconciliation, ensuring accuracy between vendor invoices, payroll deductions, and eligibility files.
• Resolve discrepancies, including overpayments, underpayments, and eligibility issues.

• Serve as the primary liaison with the North Carolina Retirement Systems.
• Counsel employees on retirement options, eligibility, and benefit calculations.
• Process and submit required retirement documentation, including enrollments, terminations, and retirement applications.

• Implement wellness initiatives focused on preventive care, chronic disease management, and overall well-being.
• Coordinate wellness events such as health fairs, screenings, fitness challenges, and educational seminars.

• Manage relationships with benefits carriers, brokers, and third-party administrators.
• Identify opportunities for program enhancements, cost savings, and service improvements.

• Provide guidance to employees and leadership on benefits, retirement, and wellness programs.
• Educate employees on maximizing their benefits and making informed decisions.
• Develop clear and engaging benefits communications.

Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, public administration, or a related field.

Five (5) years of progressive experience in benefits administration, with three (3) years in a supervisory/senior leadership role.

Demonstrated expertise in vendor management, contract negotiation, and benefits data analysis.

Strong knowledge of public sector benefits, administration, and wellness programming is preferred.

Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in benefits data, payroll coordination, and compliance documentation
Innovation: Identifying and implementing new benefit structures and/or wellness programs
Program Evaluation: Measuring ROI and impact of wellness and benefits programs
Adaptability: Adjusting to changing benefits regulations and/or workforce needs