Benefits Specialist

Benefits Specialist

Location: Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077 Pay Rate: $25.00 - $28.00/hour Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire Work Schedule: Hybrid (2 days/week onsite)

Job Overview

Our client, a leading global agribusiness organization, is seeking a Benefits Specialist to support the administration and delivery of employee benefits programs. This role is responsible for benefits administration, compliance, employee communications, and supporting a variety of benefit-related processes. The ideal candidate will have prior benefits experience, strong attention to detail, and excellent customer service skills.

Responsibilities

• Administer employee benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, voluntary benefits, FSA, HSA, COBRA, and retirement plans.
• Verify premium calculations and administrative statements for group insurance policies.
• Process vendor invoices and prepare accounting spreadsheets.
• Respond to employee benefit inquiries and coordinate escalations as needed.
• Complete benefit forms and questionnaires accurately.
• Administer Qualified Medical Child Support Orders (QMCSOs).
• Facilitate premium payment processes for employees on leave of absence.
• Coordinate retiree medical and life insurance enrollments.
• Calculate and communicate COBRA subsidies related to layoffs, military leave, and employee deaths.
• Manage FSA and COBRA error reports.
• Support Adoption Assistance administration and maintain benefit-related records and files.
• Assist with process improvements and additional departmental projects as assigned.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED.
• 1-2 years of experience administering employee benefit programs.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking abilities.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous benefits administration or benefits support experience.
• Experience with Leave of Absence (LOA) administration.
• Experience working with HRIS, payroll, and benefits administration systems.
• Strong Excel skills.
• Experience utilizing AI tools and technology.
• Ability to identify process improvements and recommend solutions.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Additional Information

This is a hybrid opportunity requiring onsite attendance two days per week at the corporate office in Inver Grove Heights, MN. Pre-employment screening may be required and can include a background check, drug screening, motor vehicle check, and other screenings based on business requirements.

If you have benefits administration experience and are looking for a long-term opportunity with growth potential, we encourage you to apply.