Chapman University
Benefits Manager
🇺🇸
Orange, CA
🕑
Full-Time
💰
$120K - $130K
💻
Human Resources
🗓️
May 21st, 2026
Edtech.com's Summary
Chapman University is hiring a Benefits Manager. The role involves managing day-to-day benefits operations, negotiating with vendors, administering health, retirement, and voluntary benefit programs, ensuring compliance and accurate payroll integration, and partnering with senior leadership to shape overall benefits strategy while improving employee understanding and participation.
Highlights
- Lead administration of health, retirement, and voluntary benefit programs.
- Manage vendor relationships, performance, and support audits.
- Develop benefits communications and open enrollment campaigns.
- Analyze benefits data, market trends, and identify process improvements.
- Proficient in HRIS and benefits administration platforms (e.g., PeopleSoft, Workday, ADP, UKG) and Microsoft Office.
- Requires 7-10+ years progressive benefits administration experience, including compliance and audit.
- Strong knowledge of federal and state regulations such as ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and FMLA.
- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
- Benefits certification (CEBS, SHRM-CP/SCP) preferred.
- Compensation range $120,000 - $130,000 annually.
Benefits Manager Full Description
Benefits Manager
Please see Special Instructions for more details.
Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer that provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics. All qualified applicants and employees are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
Applicants for Staff and Administrator positions must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.
Posting Details
Position Information
Position Title | Benefits Manager
Position Type | Regular
Job Number | SA78924
Full or Part Time | full-time 40 hours weekly
Fair Labor Standard Act Classification | Exempt
Anticipated Pay Range | $120,000 - $130,000
Pay Range Information | Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate’s qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
Position Type | Regular
Job Number | SA78924
Full or Part Time | full-time 40 hours weekly
Fair Labor Standard Act Classification | Exempt
Anticipated Pay Range | $120,000 - $130,000
Pay Range Information | Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate’s qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary | Chapman University is a nationally recognized private university in Orange, CA, known for rigorous academics, collaborative campus culture, and strong professional programs. Join a benefits team that values excellence, innovation, and service to the Chapman community.
We are seeking a talented Benefits Manager who is passionate about designing and delivering benefit programs that attract, retain, and support faculty and staff.
This is a hands-on, strategic role responsible for overseeing day-to-day benefits operations, negotiating with vendors, translating complex plan provisions into clear employee guidance, and partnering with the AVP of Compensation & Benefits to shape the university’s overall benefits strategy.
The Benefits Manager will lead administration for health, retirement, and voluntary benefit programs while ensuring accurate enrollment, payroll integration, compliance, and reporting. This role will also manage vendor relationships and performance, support audits, and develop benefits communications and open enrollment campaigns that improve employee understanding and participation. In addition, the role will analyze benefits data and market trends, identify process improvements, and support enhancements to benefits systems and HRIS integrations.
Responsibilities
Who You Are Experienced benefits professional with 5+ years of hands-on benefits administration and vendor management experience; higher education experience is a plus, but not required. Strong working knowledge of retirement plans (401(k)/403(b)), health and welfare plans, and federal compliance regulations (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, IRS and state rules). Skilled communicator who can simplify complex benefits information into clear, helpful guidance. Organized, detail-oriented, and customer-focused, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. Proficient with HRIS and benefits administration platforms, as well as Microsoft Office. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience required. Benefits certification (CEBS, SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP, or similar) preferred.
What We Offer
Opportunity to influence benefits strategy at a respected private university. Collaborative, mission-driven work environment. Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package, including health, retirement, tuition, and commuter benefits.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience) 7–10+ years of progressive experience in benefits administration, including compliance, audit, and reconciliation Strong knowledge of federal and state benefits regulations (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA) Advanced experience with HRIS and benefits administration platforms (e.g., PeopleSoft, Workday, ADP, UKG) Experience with retirement plan administration
Competencies
Deep understanding of benefits regulations and compliance requirements, including ACA, ERISA, COBRA, Department of Labor (DOL), and applicable tax laws Advanced knowledge of benefits administration and evolving market trends Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving capabilities Effective communication skills, with the ability to clearly translate complex concepts Ability to identify risk and appropriately escalate issues Highly organized, process-driven, and self-directed Demonstrates a high level of accountability, discretion, and professionalism Collaborative team player who fosters a positive, team-oriented environment Demonstrates integrity, sound judgment, and strong decision-making abilities, with the ability to handle highly confidential and sensitive information Process improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and continuous enhancement Strong cross-functional collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively across teams
Desired Qualifications
Special Instructions to Applicants | Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer that provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics. All qualified applicants and employees are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
Applicants for Staff and Administrator positions must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.
Minimum Number of References | 2
Maximum Number of References | 3
We are seeking a talented Benefits Manager who is passionate about designing and delivering benefit programs that attract, retain, and support faculty and staff.
This is a hands-on, strategic role responsible for overseeing day-to-day benefits operations, negotiating with vendors, translating complex plan provisions into clear employee guidance, and partnering with the AVP of Compensation & Benefits to shape the university’s overall benefits strategy.
The Benefits Manager will lead administration for health, retirement, and voluntary benefit programs while ensuring accurate enrollment, payroll integration, compliance, and reporting. This role will also manage vendor relationships and performance, support audits, and develop benefits communications and open enrollment campaigns that improve employee understanding and participation. In addition, the role will analyze benefits data and market trends, identify process improvements, and support enhancements to benefits systems and HRIS integrations.
Responsibilities
Who You Are Experienced benefits professional with 5+ years of hands-on benefits administration and vendor management experience; higher education experience is a plus, but not required. Strong working knowledge of retirement plans (401(k)/403(b)), health and welfare plans, and federal compliance regulations (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, IRS and state rules). Skilled communicator who can simplify complex benefits information into clear, helpful guidance. Organized, detail-oriented, and customer-focused, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. Proficient with HRIS and benefits administration platforms, as well as Microsoft Office. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience required. Benefits certification (CEBS, SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP, or similar) preferred.
What We Offer
Opportunity to influence benefits strategy at a respected private university. Collaborative, mission-driven work environment. Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package, including health, retirement, tuition, and commuter benefits.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience) 7–10+ years of progressive experience in benefits administration, including compliance, audit, and reconciliation Strong knowledge of federal and state benefits regulations (ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA) Advanced experience with HRIS and benefits administration platforms (e.g., PeopleSoft, Workday, ADP, UKG) Experience with retirement plan administration
Competencies
Deep understanding of benefits regulations and compliance requirements, including ACA, ERISA, COBRA, Department of Labor (DOL), and applicable tax laws Advanced knowledge of benefits administration and evolving market trends Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously Strong analytical, financial, and problem-solving capabilities Effective communication skills, with the ability to clearly translate complex concepts Ability to identify risk and appropriately escalate issues Highly organized, process-driven, and self-directed Demonstrates a high level of accountability, discretion, and professionalism Collaborative team player who fosters a positive, team-oriented environment Demonstrates integrity, sound judgment, and strong decision-making abilities, with the ability to handle highly confidential and sensitive information Process improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and continuous enhancement Strong cross-functional collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively across teams
Desired Qualifications
Special Instructions to Applicants | Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer that provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics. All qualified applicants and employees are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
Applicants for Staff and Administrator positions must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.
Minimum Number of References | 2
Maximum Number of References | 3
Pre-screening Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- 3 References Listed on One Page
Optional Documents
MAIN CAMPUS
One University Drive
Orange, CA 92866
(714) 997-6815
RINKER HEALTH SCIENCE CAMPUS
9401 Jeronimo Road
Irvine, CA 92618
© 2019 CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY
One University Drive
Orange, CA 92866
(714) 997-6815
RINKER HEALTH SCIENCE CAMPUS
9401 Jeronimo Road
Irvine, CA 92618
© 2019 CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY
Contact Us
Office of Human Resources
One University Drive
Orange, California 92866
TalentServices@chapman.edu
The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening, and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.
Office of Human Resources
One University Drive
Orange, California 92866
TalentServices@chapman.edu
The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening, and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.
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