Job Information
NORTHWESTERN ENERGY Benefits Manager in BUTTE, Montana
Open to major office locations in South Dakota and Montana (Billings, Bozeman, Butte, Great Falls, Helena and Missoula)
QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:
- Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration or a related field
- Minimum of five years of experience in benefits management, preferably in the utility or energy industry
- Strong understanding of employee benefits laws, regulations and compliance requirements
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Proficiency in benefit administration software and data analysis tools
- Strong project management skills, attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines
- Exceptional negotiation and vendor management skills
- Ability to maintain confidential information
- Familiar with pension plan administration, compliance and reporting
- Ability to demonstrate and maintain a good safety record
- Ability to travel up to 25% of the time
- In-depth knowledge of U.S. benefits laws and regulations (ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, etc.).
- Experience managing comprehensive benefits programs, including health and welfare plans, retirement plans and wellness initiatives
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex benefits information clearly across all levels of the organization
- Ability to pass a drug test and a background check
- Master's Degree or relevant certification (e.g., CEBS) is a plus
DUTIES INCLUDE:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive benefits strategy that supports the company's objectives and competitive positioning in the industry
- Manage the day-to-day administration of employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans (401(k) and pension plans) and other voluntary benefits
- Manage all level-of-absence administration, including, medical, personal, disability and FMLA
- Provide leadership to cross-functional teams through daily operational tasks and success measures
- Ensure all benefits programs are in compliance with federal and state regulations, including ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ACA, FMLA and other relevant laws
- Collaborate with the compliance team and external auditors to conduct regular audits and assessments, ensuring all controls are up-to-date and followed
- Collaborate with and manage benefit brokers, providers and vendors to negotiate contracts, monitor service levels, and ensure the delivery of high-quality benefits services
- Create and deliver effective communication strategies to educate employees about their benefits and wellness programs, including the value associated with their benefits and how that impacts our total rewards approach
- Conduct open enrollment meetings and present to large groups as needed
- Utilize data and metrics to assess the effectiveness of benefits programs, make recommendations for improvements, and provide reports to senior management
- Oversee wellness initiatives, including fitness programs, mental health resources and other well-being initiatives for employees
- Serve as a point of contact for employees to address benefit-related inquiries and concerns, assisting them in resolving issues
- Develop and manage the benefits budget, ensuring cost control and fiscal responsibility
- Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in benefits administration, making recommendations for adopting new initiatives or adjusting existing ones accordingly
- Engage in training, coaching, mentoring, influencing and oversight of projects and assigned teams
- Model the company core values as they pertain to established policies, procedures and state law
- Interview, hire and train employees
- Plan and assign work
- Appraise performance
- Reward and lead employees
- Address conflict resolution and provide workforce success opportunities for team members
- Adhere to company safety standards and the Code of Business Conduct & Ethics
- En ure all actions are consistent with NorthWestern Energy's values, mission, and strategic business objectives
Full-time position.
$99,300 - $162,600 annually, depending on experience. Benefits include: 401K with company match up to 4% and non-elective contribution up to 7%; healthcare and wellbeing programs, including dental and vision; Health Savings Account (HSA); healthcare and dependent care flexible spending account (FSA); Employee Assistance Programs; Life Insurance; paid time off starting on your first day, plus 11 paid holidays.
Apply by November 14, 2024.