Benefits and Wellness Manager Human Resources
Allendale, MI - USA
Job Summary
This role develops close working relationships with the organizations benefits wellness and 403(b) brokers. This role oversees negotiations with carriers in the vetting of benefits premiums services wellness programs and administration.
Salary & Benefits:
Minimum starting salary of$72000commensuratewith experience. Comprehensive benefits packageincluding medical vision dental life insurance generous employer retirement contributions wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.
Primary Duties
Responsible for planning developing and redesigning benefits and wellness by completing benefits and wellness surveys and reviewing information obtained from the results analyzing complex benefits information forecasting trends and assisting with future benefits and wellness designs and developing specific recommendations for further review.
Responsible for the administration of GVSU benefit and wellness programs regarding interpreting policy features enrollment management and other requirements.
Coordinate and disseminate information that requires explanation and interpretation of established university and departmental policies and direct individuals to sources of additional information. This includes fielding and answering various questions (e-mail phone in-person) regarding human resources new-hire information and benefits and resolving complex member claims issues.
Work with the Budget Office and Senior Management Team (executive staff) in annual budget planning for University benefits.
Ensure benefit plan compliance with federal and state laws filing and compliance requirements both adopted and pending affecting employee benefits programs including the ACA COBRA FMLA ADA Section 125 workers compensation Medicare OBRA HIPAA Social Security and DOL requirements.
Evaluate and revise internal processes to reduce costs and increase efficiency by documenting and maintaining administrative procedures for assigned benefits processes and auditing the accuracy and performance of functions performed by benefits staff.
Develop communication tools to enhance understanding of the universitys benefits and wellness package.
Take a leadership role in the Michigan University Coalition on Health Inc.
Acts as a benefits and systems expert for HR staff and special projects.
Serve as primary contact for plan vendors and third-party administrators.
Participates in the hiring process and trains and supervises the day-to-day activities of the Benefits and Wellness staff.
Performs other duties as required/assigned by leadership.
Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities
Bachelors degree in human resources business administration and a minimum of five (5) years of related work experience and/or relevant training.
Experience working under pressure and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Team player with genuine commitment to working in partnership and collaboratively with colleagues.
Proven ability to maintain discretion in confidential situations.
Strong customer service skills.
Extensive knowledge of benefits programs policies procedures and applicable legislation
Possess strong verbal and written communication skills.
Experience using various computer software applications (Microsoft Office and payroll/benefit systems).
Demonstrated experience to successfully work independently organize own work and coordinate the work activities of others.
Excellent grammar and proofreading skills.
Strong quantitative analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent presentation and facilitation skills.
Preferred Knowledge Skills and Abilities
Additional Human Resource designations
Experience in higher education
Human Resources/Benefits experience
Experience using Human Resources/Benefits information systems (Workday Preferred)
Experience using various reporting software
Working Conditions
Normal office environment. Some travel may be required.
How to Apply:
Attach your cover letter and resume.The system will allow you to attach these documents electronically. If you have questions about the position or the posting please contactTara Bivens . If you need technical assistanceplease contact Human Resources at.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require sponsorship now or in the future.
Application Deadline:
Application closesJune 9 2026.This posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University.
To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Must have the physical stamina to work long hours and/or more than 5 days per week. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendment Act (2008) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. GVSU will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon TDD Callers: Call Michigan Relay Center at 711 (in State) or 1- (out of State).
Grand Valley State University is an Antidiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Employer which includes providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. University policy extends protections to additional identities.
Required Experience:
Manager
About Company
At Grand Valley State University, we empower learners in their pursuits, professions, and purpose. The university enriches society through excellent teaching, active scholarship, advancement of equity, and public service.