Benefits Manager
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About the role
Human Resource Services (HRS) provides efficient, customer-focused support to enhance the employment experience of Washington State University (WSU) faculty and staff. Through clear communication, proactive outreach, and responsive service, HRS fosters a positive, engaging, and sustainable workplace across the WSU system. As the Benefits Manager you will be responsible for providing primary and overall management, and leadership in the area of Benefits Administration. In addition to having responsibility for all aspects of Benefits Administration at WSU, y ou will serve as a specialist for complex benefit issues and problems; manages and administers Public Employee Benefits Board ( PEBB ) / Washington State Healthcare Authority ( HCA ) Benefits; manages benefits staff. You will work closely with management to foster a collaborative and productive workplace through open communication and promoting best practices. This position is located on the WSU Pullman campus in Pullman, Washington. Additional Information: This is a full-time ( 100% FTE), permanent position. This position is overtime exempt . Monthly Salary: $6,684 - $11,250 | Commensurate with experience and qualifications In accordance with RCW 49.58.110 , the above salary reflects the full salary range for this position. Individual placement within the range is based on the candidate's current experience, education, skills, and abilities related to the position. Benefits: WSU offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes paid sick and vacation leave; paid holidays; medical, dental, life and disability insurance package for employees and dependents; retirement; deferred compensation, optional supplemental retirement accounts; training and development; and employee tuition waiver. For additional information, please review the detailed Summary of Benefits offered by WSU for AP staff and Total Compensation . Required Qualifications: A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and four (4) years of progressively responsible human resource experience in benefit programs, including retirement plans (defined benefit and defined contribution), health insurance, medical spending accounts, life insurance or long-term disability benefits. Any combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted for the educational requirement on a year-for-year basis. At least one (1) year of supervisory experience facilitating employee growth and accountability through coaching and professional development. Demonstrated experience interpreting and applying federal and state benefits regulations, rules, policies and procedures. Demonstrated experience with vendor management. Demonstrated effective interpersonal, written and oral communication skills, including conflict-resolution skills. Demonstrated ability to interact with large groups and individuals at all work levels. Experience cultivating an environment where all individuals are treated with value and respect. Demonstrated proficiency in the use of computers and software applications.
Requirements
- Experience with enterprise HRIS platforms or benefits administration modules (e.g., Workday, PeopleSoft, or Dayforce).
- Demonstrated experience in ensuring insurance eligibility components of Family Medical Leave and other leave programs.
- Professional certification from a recognized human resource/personnel association.
- HR experience in a higher education setting.
- Experience with the state of Washington Public Employee Benefit Board benefits program.
- Experience/Understanding of the state of Washington Paid Family Medical Leave program.
- Experience in any of the following areas: classification, compensation, employee relations, labor relations, training and development, and medical leave and accommodation.
- Position Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for work visa sponsorship.
- About Human Resource Services - hrs.wsu.edu
- Location: Pullman, WA
- Application Instructions: Applications received by the screening date of June 29 , 2026 , will receive first consideration. If an adequate number of qualified applications are received before the closing date listed above, the posting may close to new applications early.
- Applicants must upload the following required documents to their online application. Application materials should clearly communicate how the applicant meets all required qualifications and additional requirements.
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- External candidates , upload all documents in the "Application Document" section of your application. Current WSU Employees (internal candidates) , before starting your Workday application, please use these instructions to up
Benefits
Additional Information
Online applications must be received before 11:59pm on: July 12, 2026 If a date is not listed above, review the Applicant Instructions below for more details. Available Title(s): 1162-NN_ADMINPRO - Manager Business Title: Benefits Manager Employee Type: Admin. Professional Position Details:
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