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Benefits Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

This role Position Overview The Global Benefits Administrator manages, improves health, welfare, retirement, and supplemental benefit programs across 11 countries. Operating as a senior individual ...

This role Position Overview The Global Benefits Administrator manages, improves health, welfare, retirement, and supplemental benefit programs across 11 countries. Operating as a senior individual ...

This role Position Overview The Global Benefits Administrator manages, improves health, welfare, retirement, and supplemental benefit programs across 11 countries. Operating as a senior individual ...

Manage full-cycle benefits administration including enrollments, life events, terminations ... Administer all leave programs including FMLA, CFRA, ADA accommodations, PDL, PFL, workers ...

Program Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$190K - $230K/yr

SPA is seeking a Program Manager to lead critical Navy work in San Diego. #MC Responsibilities The ... SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs ...

Program Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$190K - $230K/yr

SPA is seeking a Program Manager to lead critical Navy work in San Diego. #MC Responsibilities The ... SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs ...

Program Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$190K - $230K/yr

SPA is seeking a Program Manager to lead critical Navy work in San Diego. #MC Responsibilities The ... SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs ...

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Benefits Program Manager information

See California salary details

$38K

$106.1K

$154.9K

How much do benefits program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for benefits program manager in California is $106,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $130,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a benefits program manager?

A Benefits Program Manager is a human resources professional responsible for designing, implementing, and managing employee benefits programs within an organization. This includes overseeing health insurance, retirement plans, wellness initiatives, and other employee perks. Their role involves ensuring compliance with relevant laws, evaluating program effectiveness, and serving as a key point of contact for employees' benefits questions. They also work with vendors and negotiate contracts to provide the best options for staff while balancing organizational costs.

How does a benefits program manager typically collaborate with other departments to ensure effective benefits administration?

Benefits Program Managers work closely with HR, payroll, and finance teams to coordinate and deliver comprehensive employee benefits. They often partner with legal and compliance departments to stay updated on regulations and ensure all programs adhere to current laws. Regular communication with department heads and external vendors is essential for managing enrollments, addressing employee concerns, and implementing new benefits initiatives smoothly. This collaborative approach helps maintain a well-functioning and legally compliant benefits program throughout the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a benefits program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Benefits Program Manager, you need expertise in employee benefits administration, compliance knowledge, and a background in HR or business, often backed by a bachelor’s degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with HRIS platforms, benefits management software, and certifications like Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) are commonly required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure accurate plan management, legal compliance, and clear communication of complex benefits information to employees.

What is the difference between Benefits Program Manager vs Benefits Coordinator?

AspectBenefits Program ManagerBenefits Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesDesigning, managing, and optimizing employee benefits programsAdministering benefits plans, assisting employees with benefits questions
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, HR certifications (e.g., CEBS), experience in benefits managementBachelor's degree, HR or benefits-related certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, cross-department collaboration, policy developmentAdministrative tasks, employee interaction, benefits enrollment
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in large organizations, HR departmentsFound in various organizations, often entry-level or support roles

The Benefits Program Manager focuses on developing and overseeing benefits strategies, while the Benefits Coordinator handles day-to-day benefits administration. Both roles require HR knowledge, but the Program Manager has a broader, strategic scope.

What degree do I need to be a benefits program manager?

A benefits program manager typically needs a bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of benefits administration, HR software, and compliance regulations; some roles may prefer or require a master's degree or professional certifications such as the Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS).

What does a benefits program manager do?

A benefits program manager oversees the design, implementation, and administration of employee benefit plans such as health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs. They ensure compliance with regulations, analyze program effectiveness, and collaborate with vendors and internal teams to meet organizational goals. Strong communication, project management skills, and knowledge of benefits regulations are essential for this role.

What cities in California are hiring for Benefits Program Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Benefits Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Benefits Program Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,053 per year, or $51 per hour.

Benefits Program Manager

Hunter Super Techs - TurnPoint

Rosemead, CA • On-site

$113 - $158/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Summary of Job Description:The Benefits Program Manager position is responsible for the strategic design, implementation, communication, and administration of employee benefits programs. This position ensures that programs are competitive, cost-effective, and aligned with the company’s goals and values. The Manager partners with vendors, consultants, and internal stakeholders to ensure seamless benefits operations and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.Job Responsibilities:Designs, manages, and evaluates employee benefits programs, including health, dental, vision, life, disability, retirement (401(k)/pension), and wellness. Analyzes benefits utilization and costs and prepares reports with data-driven recommendations for changes.Ensures employee benefit programs are properly administered and legally compliant with all federal state, and local laws (e.g., ERISA, ACA, HIPASA, COBRA, FMLA, etc.Conducts analysis to evaluate the rate structure and works with the benefits vendor (consulting firm) to recommend changes to benefit plans to improve coverage and/or deliver benefits more cost effectively.Monitors benefits trends and benchmark data to ensure competitiveness and fiscal responsibility. Provides recommendations on improving benefits based on detailed competitive analysis with peer organizations in order to address employee concerns and ensure Panda is fully competitive.Partners with payroll, HRIS, and finance teams to ensure accurate and timely processing of benefits-related data.Oversees and manages vendor relationships, including performance management and contract negotiations.Supports the integration of benefits programs during mergers, acquisitions, or organizational changes.How we reward you:Hybrid Work schedule401K with company matchYearly bonus opportunity*Full medical, dental, and vision insurance *On-site fitness center, biometric screen, and flu shot clinicDiscounts at Panda restaurants, theme parks, and gym membershipsPaid time off starting at 15 days with 7 federal holidays*Continuous education assistance and scholarships*Income protection including Disability, Life and AD&D insurance*Bereavement leave*Benefits available for eligible permanent full time associatesYour background & experience:Bachelor’s degree required; business and/or HR major preferred.5+ years of experience in HR and benefits with increasing management responsibility, preferably in a retail/hospitality operations environment.Successful completion of initial and periodically required trainings.Obtaining a valid Food Handler's Card within 30 days of employment is a requirement of this position.Pay Range: M2: $112,500 - $158,000 / AnnualWithin the range, individual pay is determined using various factors, including work location and experience.#LI-Hybrid#LI-CC2Panda Strong since 1983:Founded in Glendale, California, we are now the largest family-owned American Chinese Restaurant concept in America. With close to 2,800 locations globally, we continue our mission of delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences by building an organization where people are inspired to better their lives. Whether it’s impacting our team or the communities we work in, we’re proud to be an organization that embraces family values.You’re wanted here:Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal opportunity, and does not discriminate on the basis of any characteristic protected by law, including but not limited to sex/gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation and related conditions), gender expression, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, and veteran status. Additionally, Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. complies with all federal, state, and local laws regarding requests for workplace accommodation. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability. Applicants are entitled to reasonable accommodations, absent undue hardship, to effectively participate in the application and hiring process, for example, sign language interpreters. If you believe you require an accommodation for the application or interview process or for the position for which you are applying, please reach out to TASupport@PandaRG.com. #J-18808-Ljbffr