Benefits Manager

The City of Odessa is seeking an experienced Benefits Manager to oversee the design, administration, and ongoing management of our self-funded, non-ERISA health benefit plans. This role is responsible for ensuring compliance, managing vendors, monitoring plan performance, and supporting a positive and informed employee benefits experience.
This position works closely with HR, Finance, Legal, and external partners to maintain effective, sustainable benefit programs that meet organizational and employee needs.
What You’ll Do
• Manage self-funded medical, dental, vision, and wellness benefit programs
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal and state regulations
• Oversee and maintain vendor relationships, including TPAs and brokers
• Review claims and utilization data to identify trends, cost drivers, and improvement opportunities
• Assists the director with benefits budgeting and cost monitoring
• Lead employee communications, open enrollment, and benefits education
• Develop and support wellness initiatives that promote employee health and engagement
What You Bring
• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• 5+ years of experience in benefits management, including self-funded plans
• Strong knowledge of benefits compliance and administration
• Experience managing vendors and negotiating service agreements
• Solid analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• Proficiency with benefits systems, reporting tools, and Microsoft Office
• Benefits certification (CEBS, CBP, PHR/SPHR) preferred
Why This Role
• Hands-on leadership role with meaningful responsibility
• Opportunity to improve benefit programs that directly support employees
• Collaborative environment with cross-functional partners
If you are a knowledgeable benefits professional who values accuracy, accountability, and employee service, we encourage you to apply. [As of 16-Dec-2025 10:33 AM by Chriselda Ramos]