Human Resources Benefits Manager - Vermont

Orion Global Talent; Connecticut; On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturing company based in Vermont is seeking an HR Benefits Manager to oversee benefits administration for their 100-person team. This role emphasizes compliance with regulations while ensuring exceptional employee support and accurate service delivery. Candidates should have over 5 years of HR experience, particularly in benefits administration, and strong communication skills. The position offers a collaborative workplace culture, emphasizing engagement and accountability.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years progressive HR experience with benefits administration emphasis.
• Proven experience in a manufacturing environment is preferred.
• Strong understanding of ERISA, ACA, COBRA, and FMLA compliance requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead benefits administration for a 100-person team.
• Manage open enrollment processes and employee education sessions.
• Serve as liaison with benefit brokers and ensure compliance.

Skills

HR experience (5+ years)

Benefits administration expertise

Communication skills

Detail-oriented

Analytical abilities

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR, business, or accounting

Tools

HRIS

Payroll systems

Job description

Our client is a high-volume, precision metal stamping manufacturer recognized as a "Best Place to Work." They operate multi-shift production in a deeply collaborative, team-centric culture where employees are empowered to contribute, innovate, and grow. Their exceptional retention reflects their commitment to engagement, accountability, and respect. Well-established, privately owned and debt free.

The Role

We're seeking an HR Benefits Manager for our client to lead benefits administration for their 100-person team and ensure compliance, accuracy, and exceptional service in a fast-paced, multi-shift manufacturing environment. This key position combines strong benefits expertise with financial accuracy, discretion, and a proactive approach to employee support.

What You'll Do

• Benefits Administration (Primary Focus)
• Administer all employee benefit programs including health, dental, vision, life and disability coverage, 401(k), FMLA, leave programs, and workers' compensation
• Manage open enrollment processes, communications, and employee education sessions
• Serve as primary liaison with benefit brokers and third-party administrators
• Ensure compliance with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and applicable state regulations
• Maintain accurate benefits records in HRIS and payroll systems
• Respond promptly and confidentially to employee benefit inquiries
• Analyze utilization trends and assist leadership with benefit cost management strategies
• Basic Accounting Responsibilities (Secondary Focus)
• Reconcile benefit invoices and payroll deduction reports
• Assist with monthly accruals related to benefits and PTO
• Support 401(k) contribution reporting and audit documentation
• Partner with accounting to ensure proper general ledger coding and cost allocation
• HR Generalist Support (Tertiary Focus)
• Support onboarding, orientation, and employee record maintenance
• Assist with policy administration, handbook updates, and regulatory compliance
• Support employee engagement initiatives aligned with our team-centric culture
• Provide HR support for performance management and employee relations as needed

Requirements

• 5+ years of progressive HR experience with strong emphasis in benefits administration
• Manufacturing environment experience strongly preferred
• Working knowledge of ERISA, ACA, COBRA, FMLA, and related compliance requirements
• Proficiency with HRIS and payroll systems
• Strong reconciliation and basic accounting skills
• High level of discretion and ability to manage confidential information
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage employees at all levels
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and analytical abilities
• Bachelor's degree in human resources, business, accounting, or related field preferred
• PHR, SHRM-CP, or CEBS certification a plus
• Personal Attributes:
• Service-oriented mindset
• Collaborative and team-focused
• Calm and professional in fast-paced environments
• Highly organized with strong follow-through
• Solutions-driven and proactive

This position is at our client’s Vermont manufacturing facility.