The Role
Green Thumb is seeking an experienced Benefits Manager to join our Total Rewards team. This role will work closely with the Director of Benefits on a wide range of strategic initiatives and projects while overseeing and providing direct supervision and guidance to a Benefits Specialist and managing the day-to-day administration of our comprehensive employee benefits programs with a high level of accuracy. The position ensures full compliance with all state and federal regulations including ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ADA and FMLA and serves as a subject matter expert within the benefits function. The successful candidate will serve as the primary point of contact for all benefits-related inquiries, and play a critical role in supporting our employees in a demanding, fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities
Management & Strategic Collaboration
- Partner closely with the Director of Benefits on strategic initiatives, program development, and organizational benefits objectives
- Provide direct supervision, coaching, and professional development to Benefits Specialist. Conduct performance reviews, set goals, and support career development.
- Lead cross-functional project teams and collaborate on benefits-related projects spanning multiple departments
- Drive process improvements and operational excellence within the benefits function
- Serve as escalation point for complex benefits issues and vendor management relationships
Benefits Administration
Partner with Director of Benefits to design, implement, and manage comprehensive employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and retirement plansPartner with benefits vendors and broker to negotiate contracts, evaluate plan options, and ensure competitive offeringsOversee annual open enrollment process, including communication strategies, system updates, and employee educationConduct regular benefits plan analysis and cost management to optimize value for both employees and the organizationMaintain accurate benefits records, monitor / maintain / update vendor file feeds and ensure seamless integration with HRIS systemCompliance Management
Ensure full compliance with federal benefits regulations including ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ADA, FMLA and all applicable state and local lawsStay current with evolving cannabis industry regulations and their impact on employee benefitsPrepare and file required regulatory reports and documentationMonitor all federal, state and local regulatory benefits / paid leave / sick leave updates and ensure timely, appropriate action is taken to ensure complianceConduct regular compliance audits and implement corrective measures as neededCollaborate with legal counsel on benefits-related compliance mattersACA Compliance
Partner with ACA vendor to monitor and maintain ACA compliance including affordability calculations, minimum value determinations, and reporting requirementsPrepare and file Forms 1094-C and 1095-C annuallyTrack employee eligibility and ensure proper enrollment processesManage ACA penalty risk and optimization strategiesERISA Administration
Oversee ERISA plan administration including plan documents, summary plan descriptions, annual reporting and all related required participant notificationsEnsure proper fiduciary responsibilities are met for retirement and welfare benefit plansCoordinate with third-party administrators to ensure timely Form 5500 filingMonitor 401(k) deferral changes to ensure accurate employee contributionsOversee all non-discrimination testing and take required corrective action Employee Communication & SupportServe as primary benefits subject matter expert for employees and managementDevelop and deliver benefits education programs and materialsResolve complex benefits issues and escalationsSupport total rewards communication strategiesLeave of Absence Support
Support Leave of Absence Manager as needed to :
Administer all leave programs including FMLA, ADA, state family / medical leave and workers' compensationPartner with leave team, HR partners, employees and managers to facilitate smooth leave transitions and return-to-work processesEnsure proper documentation, certification, and compliance with all applicable leave lawsMaintain confidential leave records and coordinate benefits continuation / premiums owedQualifications
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field; or equivalent combination of education, training, and / or experience preferred5+ years of large-employer (1000+ variable hour employees), progressive benefits administration experience2+ years of supervisory or management experienceStrong knowledge of state and federal benefits regulations (ACA, ERISA, COBRA, FMLA, ADA, HIPAA)Experience with benefits compliance testing, auditing and reportingProficiency with HRIS systems, benefits administration platforms and vendor file managementExperience managing vendor relationshipsKnowledge of state-specific benefits and leave lawsAdvanced data aptitude and attention to detail with advanced Excel capabilitiesExcellent analytical and problem-solving skillsStrong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple prioritiesExceptional written and verbal communication skillsDemonstrated ability to coach and develop team membersPreferred Qualifications
Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) or similar professional certificationExperience in cannabis industry or other highly regulated industryProject management experienceAdditional Requirements
Must passany and allrequired background checksMust be and remain compliant with all legal or company regulations for working in the industryMust be a minimum of 21 years of ageThe pay range is competitive and based on experience, qualifications, and / or location of the role. Positions may be eligible for a discretionary annual incentive program driven by organization and individual performance.
Green Thumb Pay Range $100,000—$115,000 USD