At Cortland, we operate with a forward-thinking approach that challenges conventional norms and actively seeks insights beyond traditional industry boundaries. As a recognized leader in the multifamily sector, our focus on performance, innovation, and disciplined execution continues to drive strong growth and market leadership. We are committed to building a best-in-class organization by empowering top talent with the resources, autonomy, and support needed to deliver results and advance their careers in a high-performance environment.

As Senior Benefits Manager, you are responsible for the collaboration and functional oversight of corporate benefits in the creation of competitive and innovative programs such as group welfare plans, retirement savings plans, health and wellness programs, and benefits compliance. You will bring clarity to complex topics, communicate with empathy precision and thanks to your benefit expertise, you will ensure new and current Cortlandians feel supported, informed and empowered through every stage of the benefits journey.  Here are the roles you will play:

The Lead

• Update benefits and enrollment changes in HRIS/Payroll systems, resolve any outstanding issues, and conduct regular audits to ensure data accuracy
• Manage relationships with benefits vendors and ensure the follow-up on all contract specifications negotiated with them
• Assist with compliance, reporting, and audits related to federal, state, and IRS regulations to ensure that our benefits programs are in adherence to all necessary legal requirements
• Ensure that benefits plans, health and welfare programs, health spending accounts, and 401(k) plans are in full compliance with current federal and state regulations, including reporting, disclosures, and testing
• Supervise employee benefits programs and processes, including annual audit, testing, open enrollment, and annual rewards
• Assist department heads with benefits- and wellness-related questions and projects
• Oversee the benefits enrollment process to ensure accuracy and timeliness

The Communicator

• Maintain summary plan descriptions for all benefits plans and programs
• Develop and implement the benefits communication strategy that effectively conveys the details of our benefits offerings
• Create open enrollment communication materials for associates, making it easy for them to understand and select the right benefits
• Participate in the New Hire Orientation to educate associates on their benefit options and help them make informed selections
• Answer benefits-related questions from associates and direct questions to the appropriate specialist for detailed support
• Lead and monitor communication for all annual enrollment activities well in advance
• Assist with onboarding and new hire orientation processes, making sure that new employees have a smooth transition into our benefits programs
• Help manage and communicate the Thrive wellness program, engaging employees in health and wellness initiatives
• Provide recommendations on improving benefits based on a detailed competitive analysis with peer organizations, ensuring our benefits package remains competitive

The Benefits Expert

• Design benefits programs that are market competitive and aligned with our business strategy, covering health and welfare, retirement, disability, leaves of absence, and life insurance
• Oversee annual benefits budgeting processes and provide budget oversight related to benefits costs, premiums, and claims
• Process all benefit Qualifying Life Events (QLEs) and ensure timely and accurate updates
• Prepare 1095s, ensure timely filing, and correct any Social Security numbers as needed
• Develop and document procedures to streamline processes and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, enhancing efficiency
• Administer the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) program with a third-party vendor to ensure compliance
• Create and process all benefits-related invoices and ensure timely payment to vendors
• Conduct analysis to evaluate the rate structure and work with the benefits vendor to recommend changes to benefits plans to improve coverage and deliver benefits more effectively
• Produce and audit reports to ensure that all eligible employees receive enrollment information; generate UltiPro HR and Payroll reports
• Coordinate disability and life insurance claims, ensuring a smooth process for employees in need
• Prepare reports and manipulate in Excel
• Assist with deductions reporting, including but not limited to medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, and supplemental benefits

• Superb 7+ years of benefits experience; real estate experience a plus
• Bachelor’s degree in human resources or equivalent experience
• Solid understanding of federal and state benefit regulations with strong knowledge of company HR/benefits policies, processes, and program
• Proven experience in the Human Resources arena and success with benefits challenges
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; ability to work effectively with different roles and personalities in all levels of the organization
• Well-developed leadership, consulting, and presentation skills
• Stellar organizational and strategic planning skills
• Unquestionable ability to work independently and prioritize in a fast-paced environment
• Technically savvy with an ability to learn and assimilate to any situation
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel

Founded in 2005, Cortland is an international, vertically integrated multifamily real estate investment, development, and management firm with a resident-centric approach to living experiences. Recognized as one of the top 10 multifamily owners and operators in the US, Cortland combines in-house design, construction, and operations to deliver value and innovation across its portfolio.

Join us as we reimagine apartment living and drive outsized returns through purpose, performance, and people.

Cortland is an equal opportunity employer, and we’re proud to support and celebrate diversity in the workplace. We are committed to equal consideration for all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. If you have a disability and need an accommodation or assistance with the application process and/or using our website, please email Careers@cortland.com

Cortland is a drug-free workplace.

Cortland participates in e-verify to verify the employment status of all persons hired to work in the United States.