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Job Description
Careers at
DPH:
Work that makes a difference! Embracing Service, Inspiring Innovation, Promoting Teamwork, Pursuing Excellence, and Advancing Equity The South Carolina Department of Public Health is seeking an experienced Benefits Manager II to provide strategic leadership and oversight of employee benefits programs that support the health, financial well-being, and long-term security of our workforce. This key leadership role serves as a trusted resource to employees, agency leadership, and external partners while ensuring the effective administration of comprehensive benefits programs and compliance with applicable federal and state regulations. We are seeking a knowledgeable, service-driven, and forward-thinking leader who is passionate about creating an exceptional employee experience. The successful candidate will bring deep expertise in employee benefits administration and regulatory compliance, coupled with a commitment to continuous improvement, operational excellence, and employee development. As both a strategic partner and a hands-on manager, this individual will foster innovation, build strong relationships, lead by example, and inspire a high-performing team dedicated to delivering outstanding service and support. This in person position is based at DPH Headquarters on the State of South Carolina Health Campus, 400 Otarre Parkway, Cayce, SC The purpose of this position is to administer and oversee employee benefits programs, including health, welfare, and retirement plans, while ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and organizational policies. The position provides leadership and guidance to staff, supports employees with benefits-related services and information, and works to improve processes, enhance program effectiveness, and ensure efficient and accurate delivery of benefits programs.
Position Highlights:
Lead Benefits Administration:
Provide strategic oversight of the agency's employee benefits programs, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, and flexible spending accounts. Manage annual Open Enrollment activities, coordinate employee wellness and benefits events, maintain accurate benefits records, and ensure timely processing of benefits transactions. Serve as the agency's primary liaison with South Carolina PEBA and other benefits partners.
Ensure Compliance and Financial Integrity:
Monitor and ensure compliance with federal and state benefits regulations, including ACA and COBRA requirements. Oversee eligibility monitoring, required employee notifications, reporting activities, premium billing reconciliation, and benefit-related financial transactions. Partner closely with Finance and Operations to ensure accurate processing and accountability.
Support and Educate Employees:
Lead employee benefits education and outreach efforts by providing expert guidance on benefits options, enrollment requirements, and life-event changes. Oversee benefits communications, new employee orientation, informational sessions, and employee consultations to help employees make informed decisions regarding their benefits.
Foster Strong Partnerships and Continuous Improvement:
Collaborate with PEBA, insurance providers, employee assistance program vendors, and other stakeholders to ensure exceptional service delivery. Develop and maintain standard operating procedures, recommend process improvements, and work with agency communications staff to deliver timely and accurate information to employees statewide.
Our Successful Candidate Will Be:
A strategic, hands-on leader who balances compliance, customer service, and organizational priorities while continuously seeking more efficient and effective ways to improve processes and service delivery. They embrace innovation, leverage technology, and champion modern approaches that enhance the employee experience and strengthen benefits administration. A trusted advisor and collaborative partner who builds strong relationships across all levels of the organization and with external stakeholders. They possess exceptional communication skills and can translate complex benefits regulations and programs into clear, practical guidance, helping employees make informed decisions throughout their careers. A people-focused leader who leads by example, demonstrates accountability, has a heightened sense of accuracy and fosters a culture of professionalism, collaboration, and excellence. They understand that developing others is a critical leadership responsibility and are committed to coaching, mentoring, and empowering staff to achieve both individual and organizational success. The successful candidate will bring a strong foundation in employee benefits administration, regulatory compliance, and team leadership.
State Minimum Requirements:
A bachelor's degree and relevant experience in insurance or retirement programs.
Agency Additional Requirements:
Possess a bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, along with a minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience administering health, welfare, and retirement benefit programs. Experience interpreting complex benefits regulations, resolving employee benefit issues, and have a minimum of two (2) years supervisory experience. Any equivalent combination of education and/or experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered in meeting the minimum qualifications, subject to approval by the DPH Chief Human Resources Officer or their designee. Applicants indicating college credit or degree(s) on the application may upload an unofficial copy of the transcript as an attachment to the application. Please note that the agency will require an official, certified copy of the transcript or diploma prior to hiring . Institutions of Higher Learning must be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Experience working with South Carolina Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA) programs and knowledge of the South Carolina Enterprise Information System (SCEIS) are highly desirable. Familiarity with public sector benefits administration and employee-focused service delivery will further contribute to success in this role.
EEO:
The Department of Public Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
Applicants needing accommodation for medical reasons or a sincerely held religious belief may submit a request for accommodation. A reasonable accommodation may be granted if it doesn't impose an undue hardship or pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others.
STATE DISASTER PLAN
In accordance with the State's Disaster Plan, which includes hazardous weather, Department of Public Health employees may be required to work in times of an emergency or disaster.
DRIVING RECORD
: If this position requires the applicant to possess a valid driver's license to operate a state vehicle or personal vehicle, any applicant being considered in the final stages of selection for the position will be required to provide a certified copy of a 10-year driving record. The South Carolina Department of Public Health offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes: 15 days Annual (Vacation) Leave per year 15 days Sick Leave per year 13 Paid Holidays Paid Parental Leave Health, dental, vision, long-term disability, and life insurance for employees, spouse, and children. Click here for additional information. S.C. Deferred Compensation Program available (S.C. Deferred Compensation) Retirement benefit choices • State Retirement Plan ( SCRS ) State Optional Retirement Program ( State ORP ) • Enrollment in one of the listed plans is required for all FTE employees; please refer to the contribution section of hyperlinked retirement sites for the current contribution rate of gross pay.
HYBRID WORK
The option to work partially remote or adjusted work hours may be available after 12 months of employment for approved positions.
