Program Manager, Benefits

Definition

The Department of Human Resources is seeking a talented individual to fill the position of Program Manager, Benefits. Under the direction of the Executive Director, Human Resources, the Program Manager, Benefits will possess strong technical expertise in benefits administration, and demonstrate core management competencies, including strategic thinking, effective communication, change management, and the ability to educate and influence employees at all levels of the organization.

This role will be responsible for evaluating and analyzing current benefit plans, identifying opportunities for consolidation and improvement, and leading the engagement and management of external consultants to conduct comprehensive cost analyses and assessing benefit options that best align with organizational goals and employee needs. The position also requires the ability to clearly communicate benefit offerings, lead employee education initiatives, and train staff to ensure understanding, utilization, and compliance.

Assignment

This is a classified administrator position with an anticipated start date of August 2026. This is an exempt, management position and is not subject to overtime. Work Location: Daily location will be at West Valley College, Saratoga, CA with occasional meetings required at our Mission College in Santa Clara, CA.

Salary and Benefits

Initial hire range: $147,266 – 156,841 annually (Administrative Salary Schedule, Range 11, Steps A-C). Annual salary step increases to maximum of salary range, $183,593 annually (Administrative Salary Schedule, Range 11, Step H).

Minimum Qualifications

• Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in benefits administration, with 2 years of experience in supervisory roles.
• Equivalent of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in human resources, business administration, or a related field.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of health, welfare and leave of absence programs to ensure they meet the district’s strategic and operational goals.
• Design, analyze, and update benefits programs to align with district goals and market trends.
• Interpret and apply complex regulations including ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, COBRA, and California Education Code.
• Select and manage third-party insurance providers, brokers, and administrators, ensuring successful achievement of business objectives.
• Lead annual enrollment processes, including developing communication strategies and system updates.
• Act as the subject matter expert, resolving complex benefits issues and educating staff and retirees on benefit packages.
• Streamline benefits administration processes and utilize HRIS software for efficient tracking.
• Manage the day-to-day administration of all employee benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life and all other offerings.
• Oversee the auditing, assessment, and payment of health and welfare invoices; conduct monthly reconciliation of vendor premiums to ensure the District does not over or under pay.
• Ensure district-wide compliance with absence management, including state and federal regulations (FMLA, CFRA, ADA, PDL, PFL), board policies, and collective bargaining agreements.