KAWERAK POSITION DESCRIPTION
Close Date: Tuesday April 21st, 2026
DIVISION: Administration
DEPARTMENT: Human Resources
JOB TITLE: Employee Benefits Manager
LOCATION: Nome (Preferred) or Remote
POSITION STATUS: Regular, Full-Time
EXEMPT STATUS: Non-Exempt
PAY SCALE GRADE: 14-15-16 ($44.08 – $57.49 DOE)
REPORTS TO: Vice President of Human Resources
The Employee Benefits Manager is responsible for the strategic administration, compliance, and continuous improvement of Kawerak’s employee benefits programs. This position oversees benefits operations, ensures regulatory compliance, leads system optimization efforts (including HRIS), and serves as a key advisor to leadership on benefits strategy, cost management, and employee experience.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Benefits Administration & Operations
• Oversee day-to-day administration of all employee benefit programs (FEHB, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA, etc.)
• Ensure accurate and timely enrollment, changes, and terminations in HRIS and carrier systems
• Serve as escalation point for complex benefits issues and claims resolution
• Ensure proper documentation, recordkeeping, and audit readiness
2. Employee Support & Communication
• Serve as primary point of contact for employee benefits questions and issue resolution
• Develop and deliver benefits education, including new hire orientation and ongoing communication
• Create clear, user-friendly materials for open enrollment and life event changes
• Support employees navigating complex situations (medical leave, disability, ADA, etc.)
3. Compliance & Risk Management
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations (ACA, COBRA, FMLA, HIPAA, Section 125, etc.)
• Oversee required reporting (e.g., 1095-C, ACA tracking, required OSHA reports and applicable forms, audit responses)
• Partner with HR leadership on ADA accommodation processes and leave coordination
• Review and support workers’ compensation processes in coordination with carriers
4. Billing, Reconciliation & Financial Oversight
• Oversee benefits billing including self-billing, reconciliation, and payroll deductions for accuracy
• Partner with Finance to ensure proper accounting and cost tracking
• Monitor and resolve discrepancies with carriers and vendors
5. Systems & Process Improvement
• Lead benefits-related HRIS (ADP) configuration, testing, and optimization
• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy
• Support transition to electronic enrollment and carrier integrations
• Maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all benefits processes
6. Open Enrollment Management
• Lead planning and execution of annual open enrollment
• Coordinate with vendors, leadership, and communications
• Ensure accurate and timely implementation of elections and changes
7. Vendor Management
• Serve as primary liaison with benefits carriers, brokers, and third-party administrators
• Monitor vendor performance and escalate issues as needed
• Participate in plan evaluations, renewals, and negotiations
8. Leadership & Supervision
• Supervise and support assigned HR staff (e.g., HR Benefits Coordinator)
• Provide training, coaching, and performance feedback
• Ensure cross-training and operational continuity
9. Strategy & Program Development
• Support development of the semi-annual Board report, including data analysis, key metrics, and clear recommendations and other reports as needed
• Provide recommendations to HR leadership on benefits design, cost containment, and employee engagement
• Assist with preparing the semi-annual board report, analyze trends, utilization, and employee feedback to improve programs
• Support long-term benefits strategy aligned with organizational goals
10. Other Duties
• Provide backup support for HR leadership and cross train to provide coverage for other HR staff as needed
• Participate in HR initiatives and organizational projects
QUALIFICATIONS
1. A bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or a closely related field. Work experience in the field may be substituted on a year for year basis
2. Must be able to acquire SHRM-CP or CEBS certification preferred or ability to obtain within 1 year of hire.
3. At least 3 years experience in employee benefits administration or progressive general HR experience is required
4. Experience managing benefits programs and vendors required
5. Experience with HRIS systems (ADP Workforce Now strongly preferred)
6. Knowledge of federal benefits regulations (ACA, FMLA, COBRA, HIPAA)
7. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
8. Ability to handle sensitive/confidential information with discretion
9. Must be dependable, self-motivated and able to work with minimum supervision
10. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with employees, leadership, and the public while maintaining a high level of professionalism, reliability, and accountability
11. This position is expected to occasionally attend evening meetings
12. Must be willing and able to travel
Native Preference Per P.L. 93-638 Approved (3/25/2026)
SLOTTING:
14: BA or 4 years experience
15: BA +2 years experience or 6 years experience
16: BA +4 years experience or 8 years experience