Compensation & Benefits Specialist

We are looking for a Benefits & Leave Manager to support a long-term contract opportunity in Westborough, Massachusetts. This role will guide benefit program strategy and day-to-day administration across U.S. offerings while helping ensure plans remain competitive, compliant, and aligned with workforce needs. The position also plays a key part in leave management across North America, partnering with vendors and internal teams to improve the employee experience and respond to changing regulations.

Responsibilities:

• Shape and carry out benefit program strategies that support organizational goals, employee priorities, and external market practices.

• Administer U.S. health and welfare offerings, including medical, pharmacy, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, voluntary plans, and employee assistance resources.

• Oversee retirement benefit administration, including 401(k) plans, and support governance activities tied to those programs.

• Review industry trends and utilization data to identify opportunities for program improvements and cost-effective enhancements.

• Contribute to annual benefits planning by assisting with forecasting, budgeting, and longer-range program design decisions.

• Support benefit-related due diligence and integration activities connected to acquisitions, mergers, or other business changes.

• Lead administration of North America leave programs, including family and medical leave, workplace accommodations, short-term and long-term disability, and statutory or protected leave requirements.

• Promote consistent leave practices across multiple jurisdictions while working closely with external providers and internal partners to simplify processes for employees.

• Track legal and regulatory updates affecting benefits and leave programs, and implement required changes to maintain compliance.

• Experience managing employee benefit programs with strong knowledge of health, welfare, retirement, and voluntary offerings.
• Hands-on background in leave administration, including FMLA, disability programs, paid leave, and other protected absences.
• Ability to analyze benefit trends, assess program effectiveness, and recommend practical improvements.
• Familiarity with coordinating vendors, internal stakeholders, and cross-functional partners in a benefits environment.
• Working knowledge of compliance requirements related to employee benefits and leave programs across multiple jurisdictions.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage detailed processes and support employees effectively.
• Experience with benefits coordination, benefits analysis, and broader employee benefit program administration.