Job Abstract

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is seeking a Principal Benefits Consultant to join our dynamic HR Division.

As a key member of the Benefits Team, you play an integral part in ensuring the proper administration of benefits programs. This includes triaging urgent benefits concerns, partnering with HR Team members to assess benefits programs, and providing on-going recommendations for continuous process improvement. You will have the opportunity to provide excellent client facing support representing the Lab both internally and externally as an expert in Benefits serving as a consultant to management providing strategic approaches to Benefits design and implementation.

This is an amazing opportunity to work with a collaborative HR team to contribute your HR expertise in support of Berkeley Lab’s mission of world-class team science in service to the nation, while building a rewarding career with a highly regarded research institution!

What You Will Do:

• Oversee a small team of benefits professionals, providing leadership, mentorship, and guidance. Provide strategic consultation and guidance to management on the implementation of Benefits.
• Partner with the UCPath Center to resolve issues impacting benefits utilizing root cause analysis, remediation, and communication with impacted employees.
• Provide creative solutions and recommendations to highly complex issues based upon extensive training, knowledge, and experience in the area of Benefits Administration ensuring timely and satisfactory resolution.
• Recommend, implement and execute necessary reports and auditing measures to ensure proper administration and auditing of benefits including the retirement plans.
• Represent the Laboratory both internally and externally as an expert in Benefits.
• Responsible for leading multi-functional teams in the completion of the most complex Benefits projects.
• Represent findings and recommendations to Laboratory senior management.
• Ensure compliance with the LBNL’s primary contract with the Department of Energy (DOE) and with requirements established by the University of California Office of the President (UCOP) including completion and submission of required reports, and preparation and submission of DOE/UCOP approval requests.

What is Required:

• Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent training/experience) in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive work experience in Benefits Administration with extensive experience as a consultant and/or subject matter expert to management.
• Experience with benefits and retirement program implementation and administration.
• Experience in a customer facing role providing benefits information and guidance to employees and their families.
• Experience leading complex projects and directing the work of others.
• Extensive experience communicating benefits programs to management and employees.
• A high degree of PC literacy, Windows, MS Word, Excel, HRIS, and other computer applications and systems.
• Knowledge of state and federal regulations and principals and theories of benefits programs.
• Strong customer service skills that demonstrate responsiveness to customer needs and professional demeanor.
• Demonstrated ability to organize and prioritize work and to take initiative for implementing more efficient workflow processes.

Additional Desired Qualifications:

• Graduate level degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Experience working for the University of California and with UCPath & AskUs systems.
• Experience interacting with auditors and external agencies.
• Knowledge of the Lab’s HRIS, payroll systems, and UC Benefits/Retirement systems.
• Knowledge of the UC Retirement and Group Insurance regulations and plan provisions.
• Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS).

Notes:

• This is a full-time career appointment, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.
• The full salary range of this position is between $145,404 to $245,352 annually and is expected to pay between a targeted range of $163,572 to $199,932 annually depending upon candidate’s skills, knowledge, and abilities, including education, certifications, and years of experience.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule - a combination of teleworking and performing work on site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab.

Learn About Us:

Berkeley Lab (LBNL) addresses the world’s most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab’s scientific expertise has been recognized with 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.

Working at Berkeley Lab has many rewards including a competitive compensation program, excellent health and welfare programs, a retirement program that is second to none, and outstanding development opportunities. To view information about the many rewards that are offered at Berkeley Lab- Click Here.

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments.

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links: Know your rights, click here for the supplement: "Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law" and the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4.