Chapman and Cutler LLP is seeking a motivated Benefits Manager to join the Human Resources Department in the Chicago office.  The Benefits Manager is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of Firm related benefits programs (group health, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability leaves, worker's compensation, life insurance, flexible spending plans, retirement plans, etc.) as directed by the Chief Human Resources Officer.

The day-to-day responsibilities of the Benefits Manager will include:

• Administer various Firm benefits programs: health, flexible spending accounts, dental and vision, disability, life insurance, 401(k) and retirement plans, and wellness
• Administer and oversee medical leaves (STD/LTD, FMLA)

• Oversee maintenance of employee benefits files and update employee payroll records
• Allocate group health and dental claims monthly and reviews quarterly
• Audit employee data and oversee the processing of monthly billings and payment of administrative fees for all group plans
• Assist in administering 401(k) and retirement plans, and compliance related tasks
• Work closely with the Payroll department to ensure accuracy of payroll deductions for all benefits-related expenses; provide necessary reports for allocations/billing charges
• Analyze current benefits, evaluating the use, services, coverage, effectiveness, cost, plan experience and competitive trends in benefits programs, and identify the Firm's stance
• Review both short and long-range cost estimates/projections and relevant statistical analysis regarding modifications in benefits programs and implementation of new programs
• Forecast trends and assist with future benefits designs; develop specific recommendations for review by management
• Monitor administrative costs of benefits programs and recommend cost containment strategies, including alternative methods for administration and funding; prepare budgetary recommendations and assist in the monitoring, verification and reconciliation of budgeted funds
• Develop communication tools to enhance understanding of the Firm's various employee benefits
• Facilitate Annual Benefits Presentation and Benefits Fair
• Manage the Firm’s annual open enrollment processes
• Design and distribute summary plan descriptions
• Ensure the accuracy of all benefit enrollments in the HRIS to provide vendors with accurate eligibility information; responsible for data integrity related to all aspects of the Firm’s benefits and retirement plans; run reports from employee database/HRIS as requested
• Assist all Firm personnel with benefit claim issues and plan/status changes; respond to benefit inquiries and coordinates with insurance brokers and carriers
• Assist in obtaining and reviewing statistics and information in renewal process for health, life and retirement plans
• Provide leadership, training and coaching to the Firm’s Benefits and Wellness Assistant

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Candidates must have a Bachelor’s Degree (preferred) or an Associate’s Degree.  The ideal candidate will have between four (4) to seven (7) years of prior experience in Benefits and/or Human Resources in a professional environment; preference given to those with prior law firm experience.

• Knowledge of all pertinent federal and state regulations, filing and compliance requirements, both adopted and pending, affecting employee benefits programs, including the ACA, and ERISA
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Project and team management/leadership skills and experience
• Effective planning and priority setting; ability to manage several complex projects simultaneously while working under pressure to meet deadlines
• Strong analytical skills and a thorough knowledge of plan designs
• Ability to understand, evaluate and make judgment on proposals
• Knowledge of benefits contract language

Please submit a cover letter and resume.  All applicants will be considered; however, the hiring decision will be made based on qualifications for the position.

Chapman and Cutler LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V/SO.