Open to major office locations in South Dakota and Montana (Billings, Bozeman, Butte, Great Falls, Helena and Missoula)QUALIFICATIONS INCLUDE:
Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration or a related field
Minimum of five years of experience in benefits management, preferably in the utility or energy industry
Strong understanding of employee benefits laws, regulations and compliance requirements
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Proficiency in benefit administration software and data analysis tools
Strong project management skills, attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines
Exceptional negotiation and vendor management skills
Ability to maintain confidential information
Familiar with pension plan administration, compliance and reporting
Ability to demonstrate and maintain a good safety record
Ability to travel up to 25% of the time
In-depth knowledge of U.S. benefits laws and regulations (ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, etc.).
Experience managing comprehensive benefits programs, including health and welfare plans, retirement plans and wellness initiatives
Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex benefits information clearly across all levels of the organization
Ability to pass a drug test and a background check
Master's Degree or relevant certification (e.g., CEBS) is a plus
DUTIES INCLUDE:
Develop and implement a comprehensive benefits strategy that supports the company's objectives and competitive positioning in the industry
Manage the day-to-day administration of employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans (401(k) and pension plans) and other voluntary benefits
Manage all level-of-absence administration, including, medical, personal, disability and FMLA
Provide leadership to cross-functional teams through daily operational tasks and success measures
Ensure all benefits programs are in compliance with federal and state regulations, including ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ACA, FMLA and other relevant laws
Collaborate with the compliance team and external auditors to conduct regular audits and assessments, ensuring all controls are up-to-date and followed
Collaborate with and manage benefit brokers, providers and vendors to negotiate contracts, monitor service levels, and ensure the delivery of high-quality benefits services
Create and deliver effective communication strategies to educate employees about their benefits and wellness programs, including the value associated with their benefits and how that impacts our total rewards approach
Conduct open enrollment meetings and present to large groups as needed
Utilize data and metrics to assess the effectiveness of benefits programs, make recommendations for improvements, and provide reports to senior management
Oversee wellness initiatives, including fitness programs, mental health resources and other well-being initiatives for employees
Serve as a point of contact for employees to address benefit-related inquiries and concerns, assisting them in resolving issues
Develop and manage the benefits budget, ensuring cost control and fiscal responsibility
Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in benefits administration, making recommendations for adopting new initiatives or adjusting existing ones accordingly
Engage in training, coaching, mentoring, influencing and oversight of projects and assigned teams
Model the company core values as they pertain to established policies, procedures and state law
Interview, hire and train employees
Plan and assign work
Appraise performance
Reward and lead employees
Address conflict resolution and provide workforce success opportunities for team members
Adhere to company safety standards and the Code of Business Conduct & Ethics
En ure all actions are consistent with NorthWestern Energy's values, mission, and strategic business objectives
Full-time position.$99,300 - $162,600 annually, depending on experience. Benefits include: 401K with company match up to 4% and non-elective contribution up to 7%; healthcare and wellbeing programs, including dental and vision; Health Savings Account (HSA); healthcare and dependent care flexible spending account (FSA); Employee Assistance Programs; Life Insurance; paid time off starting on your first day, plus 11 paid holidays.Apply by November 14, 2024.