Benefits Consultant

The Benefits Consultant acts as an in-house subject matter expert to assist an internal communications team dedicated to one of Aetna’s largest plan sponsors. The individual in this role needs to have an extensive familiarity and understanding of benefits and benefits programs as well as how they are communicated. 

You will be expected to have a deep knowledge of the health insurance industry as well as the client’s entire suite of employee benefits. You will need a strong understanding of the client’s employees and business objectives to ensure all communications deliverables are accurate and consistent with the client’s vision for impact. You will also keep the communications team informed of trending and pertinent details related to any planned changes to benefits offerings. 

This role will work with team leadership to develop strategies, project plans and campaign roadmaps based on benefits plan design, benefits offerings, eligibility, etc. You will also support copywriters and designers to ensure that they are continually armed with critical information and that communications materials accurately describe the client’s benefits program. 

You will review all benefits communications materials to ensure accuracy and clarity of information. You will be expected to stay updated on industry trends and market dynamics to incorporate relevant knowledge into account and communications strategy and positioning. You will also help translate on-going qualitative and quantitate data to inform leadership of employee trends proactively and regularly across benefit programs.  

Key job responsibilities 

• Support the communications team in ensuring optimal understanding of benefits programs. 

• Provide updates on any changes in benefits or programs that will impact employee experience and communications materials. 

• Provide strategic counsel and develop a long-lasting “trusted advisor” relationship with account management team and client stakeholders. 

• Proactively meet with the client not only on projects, but also to stay connected to the business needs and ensure an excellent working relationship. 

• Assist in the creation of creative brief and content outlines for communications projects. 

• In partnership with copy team, own and be accountable for the accuracy, consistency, and compliance of all benefits-related communications across deliverables. 

• Partner with copywriters and designers to provide benefits education and review communications materials during and after creative development for quality, consistency, accuracy and clarity. 

• Own key internal knowledge base (benefit plan descriptions, content libraries, etc.) and work with copy team to ensure consistency and accuracy across all materials. 

• Engage with third-party benefits vendors and administrators to interpret plan changes and help translate them into clear, actionable communications strategies. 

• Help synthesize data analytics and reporting to inform opportunities to improve employee experience and understanding of benefits. Make recommendations to the communications and account teams. 

• Assist in the organization of an annual strategy meeting with the client. 

Required Qualifications

• 5–7+ years of experience in employee benefits, including a broad range of benefit programs such as medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plans (401(k)), and other employer-sponsored benefits.
• Strong knowledge of Summary Plan Descriptions (SPDs), plan documents, and other benefits-related materials.
• Demonstrated experience reviewing, proofreading, editing, and developing benefits communications and plan descriptions for accuracy and clarity.
• Experience utilizing Workfront or similar project management tools to manage workflows, track deliverables, and coordinate internal review processes.
• Previous experience in a client-facing role, such as benefits consulting, account management, client services, or a related function.
• Proven ability to work effectively within cross-functional, multidisciplinary teams and incorporate feedback in a collaborative and constructive manner.
• Experience partnering with creative, marketing, communications, or content development teams to produce high-quality client-facing materials.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and adaptability, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and respond effectively to changing business needs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Project management experience. 

• Familiarity with design tools (Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, etc.) a plus but not required. 
• Candidates residing in the West Coast.

Education

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent professional work experience.