Strategic Benefits Consultant

Strategic Benefits Consultant

The Strategic Benefits Consultant (Contract 4-6 Months) provides senior-level consultative support to Cavenders HR team with a dual focus : (1) successful implementation of the UKG Benefits Administration module and (2) stable, compliant day-to-day benefits operations. This role partners closely with the Benefits Manager, HR, Payroll, IT, and external vendors to optimize plan design, processes, and employee experience during a period of system transition.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Support the Cavenders Culture and drive our Mission, Vision, and Values.
• Advise on and oversee the UKG Benefits Administration implementation (requirements, configuration, testing, validation, cutover, and stabilization).
• Configure plan setup (eligibility, rates, tiers, waiting periods, life events, evidence of insurability), OE workflows, approvals, and communications within UKG.
• Coordinate data mapping, audits, and integrations with Payroll and carriers (e.g., EDI files); troubleshoot and resolve defects.
• Provide senior guidance on day-to-day benefits administration across health, welfare, retirement, and leave programs; act as an escalation point for complex cases.
• Recommend process improvements and automation to enhance accuracy, timeliness, and employee experience; document SOPs and controls.
• Lead user acceptance testing (UAT), develop test scripts, and track issues to closure; ensure strong QA and change-management practices.
• Create and deliver training and clear communications for employees, managers, and HR staff (job aids, FAQs, timelines).
• Monitor compliance with ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA and related regulations; support required notices, filings, and audits.
• Provide consultative reporting and insights (utilization, enrollment trends, OE metrics, defects, and risks) to HR leadership.
• Partner effectively with brokers, carriers, and vendors; maintain service levels and hold stakeholders accountable.

Qualifications and Requirements

Preferred Skills

Cavanders is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, military status, national origin, sex, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, or any other personal characteristic protected under federal, state, or local law.

Cavanders will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with a disability upon request. If you have a disability and need assistance completing the application, please call Customer Service at (888) 361 2555 or visit your nearest Cavenders store.