Remote

Senior Benefits Analyst

Western Governors University
life insurance, flexible benefit account, parental leave, paid time off, paid holidays, sick time
United States, Utah, Salt Lake City
3949 South 700 East (Show on map)
Mar 25, 2026
If you're passionate about building a better future for individuals, communities, and our country-and you're committed to working hard to play your part in building that future-consider WGU as the next step in your career. Driven by a mission to expand access to higher education through online, competency-based degree programs, WGU is also committed to being a great place to work for a diverse workforce of student-focused professionals. The university has pioneered a new way to learn in the 21st century, one that has received praise from academic, industry, government, and media leaders. Whatever your role, working for WGU gives you a part to play in helping students graduate, creating a better tomorrow for themselves and their families. The salary range for this position takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. At WGU, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their position, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is: Grade: Professional 309 Pay Range: $80,300.00 - $120,400.00 Job Description The Senior Benefits Analyst supports Western Governors University's (WGU) total rewards programs by partnering with People & Talent, Payroll, Finance, and external vendors to ensure effective delivery of employee benefits, including healthcare, retirement, and leave programs. This role provides technical and financial expertise, overseeing daily operations, data analysis, reporting, and key projects that support benefit plan administration. The position also contributes to benchmarking and strategic initiatives to evolve WGU's total rewards approach. Ideal candidates bring strong analytical and operational experience within a large organization and thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. About the Role: Provide analytical, technical, and project support for employee benefits within the Total Rewards team. Partner cross-functionally with People & Talent, Finance, Payroll, and vendors to support program design, administration, and communication. Lead or support key initiatives including insurance renewals, open enrollment, compliance filings, and vendor updates. Perform data analysis, audits, reconciliations, and system reviews to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Identify root causes of issues and recommend process and system improvements. Analyze claims, utilization, and budget data to inform planning and optimize programs. Support benefits communication, reporting, benchmarking, and strategic initiatives, including presentations and employee education. About You: Bachelor's degree in HR or related field (or equivalent experience) with 5+ years in benefits administration and strategy. Strong knowledge of employee benefits programs, including renewals, retirement, compliance, and vendor management. Data-driven with advanced analytical skills and proficiency in Excel and HRIS/payroll systems (Workday preferred). Experience operating in large, complex organizations (1,000+ employees preferred). Solid understanding of applicable benefits laws, regulations, and reporting requirements. Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly. Collaborative, adaptable, and highly organized, with strong prioritization skills in fast-paced environments (CEBS or Spanish a plus). Job Description Disclaimer: This position description provides the major duties/responsibilities, requirements and working conditions for the position. It is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current position, however management reserves the right to revise or change as necessary to meet organizational needs. Other responsibilities may be assigned when circumstances require. This position requires occasional travel of up to 20%, including required attendance at designated company summits (typically one to two per year). Additional travel may include conferences, visits to company locations, and other business-related events as needed. Additional travel may be assigned as needed to support business requirements. Position & Application Details Full-Time Regular Positions (classified as regular and working 40 standard weekly hours): This is a full-time, regular position (classified for 40 standard weekly hours) that is eligible for bonuses; medical, dental, vision, telehealth and mental healthcare; health savings account and flexible spending account; basic and voluntary life insurance; disability coverage; accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity supplemental coverages; legal and identity theft coverage; retirement savings plan; wellbeing program; discounted WGU tuition; and flexible paid time off for rest and relaxation with no need for accrual, flexible paid sick time with no need for accrual, 11 paid holidays, and other paid leaves, including up to 12 weeks of parental leave. How to Apply: If interested, an application will need to be submitted online. Internal WGU employees will need to apply through the internal job board in Workday. Additional Information Disclaimer: The job posting highlights the most critical responsibilities and requirements of the job. It's not all-inclusive. Accommodations: Applicants with disabilities who require assistance or accommodation during the application or interview process should contact our Talent Acquisition team at recruiting@wgu.edu. Equal Employment Opportunity: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic as required by law.