JOB
Howard County GovernmentHoward County Government is a leader in innovation, sustainability, and consistently ranked as one of the best places to live and work in the country. In 2023, Howard County Government received a record-breaking 51 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) – the most in the state of Maryland. NACo is the leading organization representing county-level government operations. These awards recognize innovative and transformative programs that provide new services for county residents, improve existing programs, upgrade working conditions, and enhance citizen participation and public policymaking. What are we looking for? Howard County Government is seeking an experienced and energetic Benefits Manager (Assistant Administrator) to administer and carry out the County’s employee benefits program which covers approximately 5,000 employees and retirees. This is a highly responsible position that manages elements including health insurance plans, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance program, 457 deferred compensation, and other employee benefit programs. The County’s program includes self-insured and fully insured plans. Applicants are highly encouraged to attach to their application, a work sample of open enrollment communication materials they have developed and any reports that reflect analysis of benefit programs.CLASS DESCRIPTIONPerforms advanced administrative work, which may include supervisory responsibilities, under supervision from an administrative superior. As directed, assists in the overall management of the human resources program and directly supervises one or more major functional activities such as benefits and records administration, classification and pay, or recruitment and selection.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Include the following. Other related duties may be assigned. Oversee the administration of employee benefits program to include areas such as medical, prescription, dental, life, short- and long-term disability, EAP, 457 (b) plan, etc.Manages the Benefits Division and staff by coaching, counseling, and mentoring employees.Works in collaboration with Human Resources Administrator to provide well informed recommendations on the benefits program. Analyzes and develops benefit strategies to ensure high quality and cost-effective programs. Ensures compliance with federal/state benefit regulations (such as the ACA, FMLA, COBRA, etc); and County policies. Proactively communicates benefits programs to ensure clear understanding of program options, eligibility, and policies. Resolves employee questions and problems by interpreting benefit policies and procedures.Works closely with benefit consultants on annual benefit plan renewals, and plan design changes/recommendation, studies/trend analysis, projections, and RFPs as appropriate. Designs, coordinates, and implements the annual open enrollment program.