Benefits Manager

Jackson State University is Mississippi's Urban University and has been designated as a "high research activity" institution by the Carnegie Foundation. We are committed to working together for our mission to provide quality teaching, research, and service at the baccalaureate, master, specialist, and doctoral levels to diverse populations of students and communities using various modalities to ensure that they are technologically-advanced, ethical, and global leaders who think critically and can address societal problems and compete effectively. JSU invites you to join our creative, diverse, and energizing University that unites faculty, staff, and students as One JSU! The Division of Human Resources is accepting applications for its Benefits Manager position. The Benefits Manager is responsible for the strategic planning, design, implementation, communication, compliance, and administration of the employee benefit programs. This includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, retirement plans, and leave policies. The Benefits Manager ensures that the programs support the organization's objectives and are compliant with legal requirements. Design and manage the organization's benefits strategy in alignment with the overall HR and University goals. Administer benefit programs, including enrollment, claims resolution, change reporting, and ensuring proper recordkeeping. Recommend plan changes or new benefit offerings based on analysis and research. Work with vendors and consultants to ensure best-in-class service and plan performance. Lead annual open enrollment processes, including communications, presentations, and system updates. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local benefits laws and regulations (e.g., ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, ACA). Manage vendor relationships and oversee service level agreements and performance. Develop and maintain communication materials to promote understanding and engagement with benefits programs. Manage Benefits team to ensure accurate data and timely processing. Handle escalated employee inquiries and resolve benefits issues with empathy and efficiency. Perform other duties as assigned. Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Five plus (5+) years of experience in employee benefits administration, with at least two years in a leadership or managerial role. Strong knowledge of benefits regulations, plan design, and industry best practices. Experience managing vendor relationships. Excellent communication, organizational, and analytical skills. Proficiency in HRIS systems and benefits administration platforms (e.g., Banner SaaS, UKG, etc.). Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.