Associate Director, Human Resources & Benefits

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight and hands-on management of comprehensive benefits programs, including medical, dental, life, disability, and 403(b) retirement plans.
• Direct the administration of all health and welfare plans, manage the benefits budget, and lead the annual open enrollment process.
• Manage the full lifecycle of leave administration (FMLA, MPFML, STD/LTD) and oversee the ADA/disability accommodations process.
• Develop and lead employee wellness programs and educational initiatives to increase benefits literacy.
• Serve as the functional administrator for benefits systems (e.g., Wex), ensuring data integrity, managing vendor integrations, and troubleshooting technical issues.
• Ensure regulatory compliance with federal and state laws, including ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and IRS guidelines.
• Assist the AVP of Human Resources in the day-to-day management and oversight of the Office of Human Resources.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in HR, Business, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressive HR experience specifically in benefits administration.
• 2+ years of experience in a supervisory or team-lead capacity.
• Deep knowledge of benefits laws including ERISA, ACA, FMLA, and ADA.
• Experience managing and configuring HRIS platforms (e.g., Ellucian/Banner, ADP, or UKG) and specialized benefits systems.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, complex formulas, and data auditing).
• Exceptional discretion in handling confidential data and strong interpersonal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working within a higher education environment.
• Experience with the Ellucian/Banner HR/Payroll module.
• Professional certifications such as CEBS, SPHR, or SHRM.

About the Company

Wheaton College is a community dedicated to providing a transformative education in the Liberal Arts and Sciences, valuing diversity as a pivotal component of personal development and intellectual expansion.