North American Benefits Manager

Analyze and communicate the company's benefits program in regard to plan options, policy features, enrollment and other requirements. Participates and in and may lead in planning, developing, and redesigning company benefits programs and analyzing benefit costs. Ensures company compliance with federal and state laws.'Manage the analysis and communication of the company's benefit plans and leave of absence programs in regard to plan options, policy features, enrollment and other requirements 'Work independently or with management as needed to evaluate the company's benefit programs or process designs; develop solutions to identified issues; and implement changes in an effective & timely manner 'Identify, develop, implement and communicate wellness programs or initiatives that support the business and employees. Provide recommendations based on analysis and trend studies. 'Develop and maintains strong partnering relationships with, and manage, third-party administrators and benefit providers including but not limited to disease management, EAP, and disability/leave management, medical, dental, 401(k), life and accident insurance. 'Play a key role in the development or enhancement of company plans including disability, leave of absence, disease management, EAP and wellness programs to include plan design and administrative policies and practices. 'Develop and provide detailed analysis on targeted benefit programs to: evaluate costs and competitiveness; identify trends and risks; determine and recommend appropriate plan design changes and/or mitigation strategies 'Ensures compliance of benefit programs with federal and state laws. 'Organize, plan, and execute training for managers & employees on any Itron benefit plan or program. 'Manage benefit plan transition for acquisitions. 'Surveys market data in order to determine company's competitive position in employee benefits.Qualifications:Experience: Minimum of 8 years of specialized experience in benefits administration and analysis. Experience with multi-state benefit plans and Canadian benefit plans. Corporate Experience with mid to large group benefit plans. Must be proficient with worksheet applications, data modeling techniques, and navigating reports from web-based claim information systems. Strong attention to detail and analytical skills. PeopleSoft experience preferred and Strong communication skills.Education: Minimum of a Bachelor's degree is required from an accredited college or university in the HR/Benefits areaCertifications: Travel Requirements: 1 - 10%     Company: Itron Location: Liberty Lake, WA 99019 Status: Full Time, Employee Job Category: Human Resources Career Level: Manager (Manager/Supervisor of Staff) Occupations: Compensation/Benefits Policy;Payroll and Benefits Administration Industry: Energy and Utilities;Manufacturing - Other Company: Itron