Overview

Academy of Art University is seeking an experienced Human Resources Benefits Manager to serve as the University's subject matter expert for employee health and welfare benefits and 401(k) plans. This role manages programs for both California and out-of-state employees and partners closely with the University's benefits broker, Finance, Payroll, and HRIS teams to ensure compliance, efficiency, and alignment with organizational goals.

This is a fully remote role. Candidates must be able to work 8am to 5pm PST, Monday through Friday.

Key Responsibilities

• •Act as subject matter expert for ACA, San Francisco Healthcare Security Ordinance, and University procedures.
• •Oversee compliance activities including IRS 5500 reporting, 401(k) plan audits, non-discrimination testing, ACA reporting, and Medicare Part D notices.
• •Manage all 401(k) plan operations: enrollments, loans, distributions, and vendor partnerships.
• •Partner with Payroll to ensure accurate benefit deductions, contributions, and repayments.
• •Conduct monthly enrollment reconciliations across medical, dental, vision, life, COBRA, FSAs, and other plans.
• •Review, approve, and coordinate timely payment of benefit plan billing.
• •Lead annual Open Enrollment, including planning, system configuration, employee communications, and vendor integrations.
• •Maintain benefit plan documents, employee notices, and regulatory filings.
• •Recommend and implement process improvements and benefit strategies aligned with the University's mission.
• •Provide leadership to HR staff in delivering high-quality employee support.

Qualifications

• •Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field strongly preferred.
• •Experience managing a benefits program, including budget responsibility, in a for-profit organization.
• •Strong computer skills, including HRIS (Workday strongly preferred) and advanced Excel.
• •Demonstrated leadership, coaching, and decision-making skills.
• •Strong attention to detail with proven auditing and compliance experience.
• •Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to work across all organizational levels.
• •Track record of managing multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• •Thorough knowledge of benefit plan design and federal/state regulations including HIPAA, COBRA, ACA, 401(k), and Section 125.
• •Customer service mindset with strong problem-solving and partnership skills.
• •Ability to work independently and adapt to changing business needs in a remote environment.

Compensation and Benefits

• •Salary: $75,000 - $85,000 depending on location and experience.
• •Full-time employees receive health insurance, 401(k) options, paid vacation (15 days accrual at start), paid holidays, paid sick leave, and a commuter benefit program.
• •Full-time employees may take one undergraduate course tuition free each semester.

Application Deadline

September 14, 2026