Benefits Specialist

Overview The Squires Group is seeking a Benefits Specialist for a long-term contract opportunity. This hybrid position is based in Port Huron, Michigan, with an onsite schedule of three days per week (preferably Monday through Wednesday) and remote work available on the remaining days. The ideal candidate will bring strong benefits administration experience, a solid understanding of benefits regulations and compliance requirements, and the ability to effectively partner with employees, leadership, vendors, and HR teams to ensure the successful delivery of benefits programs and services. Responsibilities Administer employee benefits programs, including health and welfare, retirement, pension, leave of absence, PTO, and employee assistance programs Serve as a subject matter expert and primary point of contact for employee and management inquiries related to benefits programs Investigate and resolve complex or escalated benefits issues while ensuring a positive employee experience Monitor benefits administration processes and identify opportunities for improvements, efficiencies, and issue resolution Support annual open enrollment activities, including communications, system updates, testing, rate validations, and employee education Collaborate with HRIS teams and third-party vendors to implement program enhancements and ensure accurate benefits administration Analyze benefits data, reporting, costs, and trends to support decision-making and program effectiveness Assist with audits, compliance reporting, vendor management activities, and benefits-related data requests Reconcile benefit invoices and support financial and administrative processes related to benefits programs Provide support for vendor implementations, system enhancements, and benefits-related projects Ensure benefits programs are administered in compliance with applicable federal and state regulations Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, Finance, or a related field 5+ years of experience in benefits administration, pension administration, benefits accounting, or a related area Experience administering employee benefit programs in a corporate environment Knowledge of employee benefits laws and regulations, including ACA, ERISA, and Section125 Cafeteria Plans Experience working with HRIS systems and reporting tools Experience supporting audits, compliance activities, and benefits-related reporting Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills Excellent communication and presentation abilities Proficiency with Microsoft365 applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines while maintaining a high level of accuracy and confidentiality Preferred Qualifications Experience with self-insured health and welfare plans Experience resolving complex claims, eligibility, and vendor-related issues Workday experience Experience supporting Form 5500 audits and nondiscrimination testing Adobe Acrobat experience CBP and/or CEBS certification (or coursework) Compensation The compensation for this role as a consultant starts at $40/hour, based on experience and qualifications. This rate is subject to change. Benefits vary by compensation type and may include paid time off (PTO), medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, long-term disability insurance, a 401(k) plan, and additional optional benefits. 4 Reasons to Join The Squires Group, Inc.: Our Commitment to You - We offer competitive pay, multi-year projects, and a list of exciting clients. Work-Life Balance - We work hard; we work smart and have quality time for family and "life." Golden Rule - We treat our consultants the way we want to be treated: with integrity, professionalism, and trust. We Care About You - We help you meet your career goals and continuously support your efforts in the field. The Squires Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. #LI-JK1 #LI-hybrid #J-18808-Ljbffr