Benefits and Leave Specialist

Compensation - $32.17/hr

Position open until filled.

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION

The Benefits and Leave Specialist supports the Human Resources team by administering the City's benefit and leave programs in alignment with an employee-focused, high-performance culture that reflects the City's CORE Values-Service, Integrity, Communication, and Excellence.

This position works closely with department leadership, employees, retirees, and vendors to ensure accurate and compliant administration of benefits, FMLA, retirement, and other leave programs, while maintaining current and precise data within the HRIS, including benefits, payroll deductions, and related records.

The incumbent is expected to stay informed on current benefit trends, provide knowledgeable guidance to employees and management, and communicate effectively to foster positive relationships across the organization. A general understanding of broader HR functions, such as recruitment, onboarding, compensation, and performance management, is also essential to provide comprehensive HR support.

NECESSARY KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Ability to maintain focus and effectively multitask in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions, emergencies, and critical deadlines.
• Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to perform all assigned responsibilities with professionalism and accuracy.
• Extracts and analyzes data from multiple HRIS systems to identify trends and provide informed recommendations based on data analysis.
• Working knowledge of payroll workflows and their integration with benefit elections, mandatory deductions, and leave-related adjustments.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and apply sound judgment when working with sensitive information.
• Ability to use logical, objective reasoning to make sound decisions and resolve problems and conflicts effectively.
• Demonstrated proficiency in verbal and written business English needed to prepare professional correspondence, presentations, and informational materials.
• Ability to develop strong working relationships at all organizational levels while maintaining professional composure that promotes trust and collaboration.
• Demonstrated ability to use initiative to take proactive, empowered action in resolving routine issues within policy guidelines and apply creativity when addressing more complex challenges.
• Ability to anticipate the implications and consequences of situations and take proactive action to prepare for and mitigate potential outcomes.
• Skill in creating informed recommendations that support organizational goals while respecting employee viewpoints.
• Ability to listen without bias and respond objectively to employee concerns to support trust and constructive problem-solving.
• Skill in conveying information in a clear, organized, and professional manner to ensure employees understand expectations, processes, and departmental objectives.
• Ability to display empathy, courtesy, and tact when addressing others, maintaining a positive and respectful demeanor in all situations.
• Demonstrates proficiency in computer applications, learns specialized software quickly, and effectively utilizes standard office and HR systems.
• Contributes to a positive and trustworthy work environment by maintaining confidentiality and fostering mutual respect in all professional relationships.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

A bachelor's degree in public administration, business, Human Resource Management, or a related field, with three (3) years of experience in a Human Resources department preferred; OR

High school diploma or equivalent with related business coursework and three to five (3-5) years of experience in Human Resources or a business field where analytical and customer service skills were essential, and the work was closely related to Human Resources functions; OR

Any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Bilingualism in English and Spanish is preferred.

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES REQUIRED

A valid Class C Texas driver's license and the ability to maintain a satisfactory driving record.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AND SAFETY HAZARDS

Primarily in an indoor environment with the ability to operate outdoors when needed. May be exposed to extreme heat and cold during the summer and winter months.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Standard office equipment, including a multi-line telephone, computer, fax machine, copier, shredder, scanner, and printer; may also use audio/visual equipment and presentation tools as needed for meetings and employee training.