Benefits Specialist

About On Lok On Lok is a not‑for‑profit organization founded in the early 1970s by a group of citizens concerned about the plight of elders and the lack of long‑term options in the community. Its functions include research and development, human resources, fundraising and management information systems. Position Summary The Benefits Specialist administers and supports the organization’s employee benefits programs, ensuring accurate enrollment, compliance with federal and state regulations (including California‑specific laws), and excellent service to employees. This role is the key point of contact for benefits‑related inquiries, open enrollment, claims resolution, benefit‑related audits, and vendor coordination in a dynamic HR environment. The Benefits Specialist also assists with researching, analyzing, and evaluating benefit plans and works on projects in a supportive role. Benefits Plan Administration Administers employee benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, ancillary, retirement plans (e.g., 401(k)), flexible spending accounts, and wellness initiatives. Conducts open enrollment processes, including communications, employee education sessions, and system updates (e.g., in HRIS platforms like Oracle or similar). Assists the Benefits Manager in coordinating with benefits vendors and brokers to resolve issues, track performance, approve invoices, and negotiate as needed. Processes enrollments, terminations, qualifying life event changes (e.g., marriage, birth), verification of benefits requests, and COBRA notifications. Reporting & Compliance Tracks and reports benefits data, prepares audits (e.g., 5500 filings, nondiscrimination testing), and supports annual compliance activities. Assists with leave‑of‑absence administration (FMLA, CFRA, workers’ compensation, accommodations) and maintains accurate employee benefits records. Supports compliance activities regarding federal laws (ACA, ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, FMLA) and California state requirements (e.g., Paid Family Leave, California Family Rights Act, state disability insurance, Kin‑Care, and relevant notices/filings). Benefits Communications Serves as the initial Benefits contact for employees and retirees regarding benefits eligibility, options, changes, and claims resolution; provides guidance on plan details and answers inquiries promptly. Supports new‑hire benefit review sessions to educate employees on available plans, eligibility, and enrollment requirements, and ensures timely and accurate completion of the benefits enrollment process through proactive follow‑up. Supports development of benefits communications including newsletters, presentations, and training materials. Research, Benefits Plan Design Assists the Benefits Manager in researching and analyzing benefit trends. Participates in benefits plan design reviews, cost analysis, and recommendations. Qualifications – Required Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent experience. 3 years of experience in benefits administration. Strong knowledge of employee benefits programs and applicable laws/regulations (federal and California‑specific). Excellent communication and customer service skills for explaining complex benefits information clearly. Detail‑oriented with strong analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving abilities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel for reporting. Familiarity with California employment laws (e.g., paid sick leave, paid family leave integration). Qualifications – Preferred Certified Benefits Professional (CPB) or Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS‑IFEBP). Background in retirement plan administration or public‑sector benefits (for government‑adjacent roles). Experience with retirement savings plans 403(b) and term life/AD&D insurance. Eligible Employee Benefits Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage Retirement Savings Plan 403(b) and Term Life/AD&D Insurance Flexible Spending Account, Commuter Benefits, Pet Insurance, and Employee Discount Program Mental Wellness Resources and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Holidays (10 per year), vacation time, sick leave, long‑term disability insurance, and additional benefits are available. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and state and federal laws (including federal PACE requirements at 42 CFR 460.64(a); 460.68(a)), we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. On Lok is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex (including pregnancy), race, religion, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, age, military or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. If you require reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions and/or to receive other terms, privileges or benefits of employment, please contact Talent (View email address on click.appcast.io). Salary: $40.50 – $54.00 per hour #J-18808-Ljbffr