Manager, Total Rewards

HR Talent Alliance; Illinois; On-site; USD 95,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading human resources consultancy is seeking a Manager, Total Rewards to manage and enhance compensation and benefits strategies. The role requires over 8 years of HR experience and expertise in compliance with regulations such as ERISA and HIPAA. The ideal candidate will lead compensation programs, oversee annual benefits enrollment, and collaborate with finance and HR leaders to optimize practices. This full-time position is located in the Northern Chicago suburbs, offering a salary range of $95,000 to $110,000 plus bonus.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of progressive HR experience in compensation, benefits, and total rewards strategy.
• Strong analytical skills with ability to evaluate market data and recommend insights.
• Deep knowledge of compliance frameworks including ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, and FMLA.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and administration of compensation and rewards programs.
• Oversee vendor relationships for employee benefits.
• Manage data-based recommendations on pay structures and market competitiveness.
• Develop and communicate Total Rewards Statements for employees.
• Ensure compliance with HR regulations and monitor emerging legislation.

Skills

Analytical mindset

HRIS systems proficiency

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) knowledge

Compliance knowledge (ERISA, HIPAA, etc.)

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources

Advanced degree/CCP/CEBS/CWCP (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Manager, Total Rewards – Northern Chicago suburbs / Chicago Metro Area

Location: Northern Chicago suburbs

Status: Full-time On Site

Salary: $95,000 - $110,000 + bonus & great benefits

Base pay range

$95,000.00/yr - $110,000.00/yr

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced Manager, Total Rewards to design, manage, and elevate compensation, benefits, and rewards strategies that attract, engage, and retain top talent. This onsite HR leadership role blends analytics, innovation, and compliance to deliver best‑in‑class employee experience.

What You'll Do

• Lead the design, benchmarking, and administration of compensation, benefits, and rewards programs that align with company goals and culture.
• Oversee annual enrollment, renewals, and vendor relationships for medical, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement, and wellness programs.
• Drive data-based recommendations on pay structures, equity, and market competitiveness to ensure internal fairness and external strength.
• Manage annual compensation reviews and merit cycles, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and strong partnership with Payroll and Finance.
• Experience with ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)
• Develop and deliver Total Rewards Statements and communication that enhance transparency and employee engagement.
• Administer workers’ compensation claims, accommodations, and return-to-work processes in partnership with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with ACA, COBRA, ERISA, HIPAA, FLSA, FMLA, and related regulations; monitor emerging legislation.
• Optimize HRIS modules for Benefits Administration and Compliance, ensuring accurate carrier feeds, enrollment data, and reporting integrity.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Finance, Accounting, and HR leaders to ensure alignment, data accuracy, and process improvement.
• Champion wellness and recognition programs that strengthen culture, performance, and retention.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field required (advanced degree/CCP/CEBS/CWCP a plus).
• 8 or more years of progressive HR experience in compensation, benefits, and total rewards strategy.
• Strong analytical mindset with proven ability to evaluate market data and recommend actionable insights.
• Related BS degree required; advanced degree and/or Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS), Certified Workers Compensation Professional (CWCP) preferred.
• Proficiency with HRIS systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Deep working knowledge of ERISA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, and related compliance frameworks.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Human Resources and Administrative

Industries

Manufacturing and Industrial Machinery Manufacturing

Contact Michael Steele at [e-mail].