Job Description Summary
Under limited supervision, the Senior Benefits Analyst is responsible for the advanced analytics, administration, and compliance of the organization’s employee benefit programs—including significant accountability for 401(k) plan testing, auditing, and administration. The analyst independently interprets and applies complex regulations, proactively identifies and resolves nuanced compliance risks, and partners with management to drive continuous improvement of benefit strategy, data integrity, and operational excellence. This role routinely manages complex projects, analyzes benefit trends and utilization, and leads cross-functional initiatives to enhance policy and process alignment with evolving regulatory standards. This is a #hybrid role based in Chicago.
Job Responsibilities & Tasks:
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Conduct in-depth analytics on benefit program utilization, cost trends, and participant behavior; prepare executive-level reports and present recommendations to support total rewards strategies.
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Lead advanced compliance activities for all benefit programs, with a focus on 401(k):
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Independently coordinate and complete annual nondiscrimination and compliance testing for 401(k) and other qualified plans.
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Oversee internal and external audits, ensuring timely and accurate responses to auditors and government agencies.
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Prepare, review, and file mandatory government reports (e.g. 5500s), required notice distribution (e.g. Safe Harbor, SPD), and ensure audit trails for all transactions.
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Lead integrated projects with vendors and internal stakeholders, driving continuous improvement initiatives regarding data flows, process automation, and operational efficiency; ensure robust controls and preventive solutions are implemented; execute on approved program or plan changes and rollouts.
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Complete annual or ad hoc compliance filings, including, but not limited to, health and welfare 5500s, gag clause attestation, pharmacy benefit reporting and creditable coverage status.
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Design and deliver communication materials and benefit education sessions, including, but not limited to, specialized 401(k) training for both employees and HR partners as needed.
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Continuously monitor changes in all applicable benefits laws and regulations (ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, IRS rules, DOL), interpret impacts, and ensure program and process adjustment for ongoing compliance. Proactively recommend policy or plan changes to leadership.
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Resolve complex employee benefit issues and serve as a subject matter expert for escalated cases from HRBPs, third-party employee support services, and vendors; conduct root cause analyses and develop sound solutions.
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Oversee and review the accuracy of benefits data within HRIS, payroll, and third-party administrator platforms, deploying advanced auditing protocols and data-driven insights to ensure the highest data accuracy standards.
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Ensure all work complies with company policies, regulatory requirements, and deadlines.
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Champion the organization’s core values through demonstrated behaviors and integrating these values into strategic decisions and process improvements.
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Perform other advanced projects and duties as assigned.
Key Performance Indicator (KPI):
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Compliance error rates
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Accuracy and timeliness of 401(k) testing, audit responses, and government filings
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Process improvement implementation and outcomes
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Employee and HRBP satisfaction with benefits support
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Audit finding resolution rate and timeliness
Position Requirements:
EDUCATION
- Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field required; coursework or certification in benefits, HR, or data analytics preferred
EXPERIENCE
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Minimum four (4) years professional experience in employee benefits administration with at least two (2) years specifically focused on 401(k) plan operations, compliance testing, or audit management.
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Demonstrated experience in benefits analytics, regulatory compliance, and large-scale process improvement.
SKILLS
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Advanced knowledge of employee benefit principles, market trends, and compliance requirements.
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Expert in 401(k) plan administration, annual nondiscrimination testing, and audit/reporting.
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Strong quantitative, analytical, and data management abilities; proficiency with spreadsheets, HRIS, and data visualization tools.
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Ability to interpret complex benefit laws/regulations and recommend compliant, pragmatic solutions.
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Excellent project management, organizational, and continuous improvement skills.
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Exceptional verbal and written communication, including preparing executive summaries and leading policy/training sessions.
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High level of professionalism and discretion handling confidential, sensitive data.
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Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment and influence cross-functional partners.
PHYSICAL & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
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Travel for this position is limited to infrequent conferences or company meetings, but may, as needs arise, be required to travel to individual factories for on-premises employee benefit program support.
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This position spends a significant amount of time working at a desk or computer, so the ability to sit for long periods comfortably is important.
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Significant hand-eye coordination and dexterity is required to operate a keyboard and to navigate software systems and input data accurately.
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This position involves working with documents, spreadsheets, and other detailed information which requires the ability to visually read and interpret data accurately on screens or paper.
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Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
Working Conditions: Work is primarily performed in a hybrid office environment, generally during regular business hours, with a minimum expectation of 40 hours per week. Occasionally, variation in work hours may be required due to special projects, deadlines, or other business needs. The physical demands of the position are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of the role, and reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
Relationships: Key Internal Partners: HRBP, Groupe C + B, Finance, HRIS; Key External Partners: Benefits Vendors, Government Agencies
Total Rewards
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Base Salary: $90,000–$115,000
- Bonus Opportunity: 12%
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PTO and Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits from Day 1
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401k Match
