Benefits Specialist

Benefits SpecialistCompany: Kia America, Inc. Location: Irvine, CA, US, 92606At Kia, we're creating award-winning products and redefining what value means in the automotive industry. It takes a special group of individuals to do what we do, and we do it together. Our culture is fast-paced, collaborative, and innovative. Our people thrive on thinking differently and challenging the status quo. We are creating something special here, a culture of learning and opportunity, where you can help Kia achieve big things and most importantly, feel passionate and connected to your work every day. Kia provides team members with competitive benefits including premium paid medical, dental and vision coverage for you and your dependents, 401(k) plan matching of 100% up to 6% of the salary deferral, and paid time off. Kia also offers company lease and purchase programs, company-wide holiday shutdown, paid volunteer hours, and premium lifestyle amenities at our corporate campus in Irvine, California.Status: NonexemptGeneral SummaryThe Benefits Specialist applies knowledge of benefit regulations, concepts, practices, and procedures as well as knowledge of company policies in the administration of the company sponsored benefit program. This position is responsible for supporting the administration of team member benefit programs, including but not limited to the group health plans, life/disability insurance, 401(k) plan, workers' compensation and ADA/leaves of absence. The Benefits Specialist partners with the benefits consultant and benefit program vendors to ensure successful benefit program management.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesPriority One – 50% Administration of the company benefit programs. Work with the Sr. Benefits & Wellness Manager to administer various employee benefits programs, such as group health, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, retirement plans and wellness benefits. Assist with ACA compliance and 1095-C's. Assist with Open Enrollment tasks, review benefits guides, schedule meetings, send out email communications, update rates and eligibility rules. Review and approve employee enrollments including qualified life events, audit employee benefits eligibility, process COBRA. Utilize tools to enhance employee understanding of the company's benefits plans.Priority Two – 20% Administration of the company leave programs. Ensure the efficient administration of the company leave programs (FMLA, PDL, CFRA, PFL, ADA, Worker's Compensation). Administer the company ergonomics program. Ensure proper work/travel accommodations are supported. Participate in quarterly carrier claims review for Worker's Compensation. Update OSHA tracking logs and complete the annual required reporting.Priority Three – 20% Ensure accurate and timely responses to employees and vendors. Monitor and resolve carrier file feeds, error reports and enrollment issues in a timely manner. Respond to benefits inquiries from managers and employees on plan provisions, benefits enrollments, status changes and other general inquiries within compliance requirements to include required documentation.Priority Four – 10% Other responsibilities. Analyze, audit, reconcile and process monthly insurance invoices. Prepare affiliate billing. Conduct new hire benefit orientations.This list of essential responsibilities and duties is not exhaustive and may be supplemented and changed as necessary by management.Qualifications/EducationBachelor's degree or equivalent work experience required. SHRM or PHR Certification is a plus.Job Requirement Minimum 5+ years of years of human resources experience required. 3+ of direct experience with benefits administration required.Other RequirementsPhysical Requirements: frequent sitting, vision, hearing, typing, and talking. Up to 5% of domestic and/or international travel.Job demands may include reading (documents), detailed work, confidentiality, problem solving, language, reasoning skills, oral communication, written communication, customer contact, ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, vendors, and other employees, multiple concurrent tasks, ability to work with frequent interruptions, etc. Must be able to maintain focus and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment. Ability to analyze information and make sound decisions under time constraints. Problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently Must be able to respond to challenges with poise and agility. Ability to handle competing priorities effectively and with composure. Other duties as assigned.Specialized Skills and Knowledge RequiredPrevious experience and knowledge of laws and regulations that govern benefits administration (e.g., FLMA, CFRA, ADA, §125, DOL, IRS guidelines and requirements, and workers' compensation.) Strong background working with various leaves of absences and work accommodations. Strong attention to detail is crucial when managing benefit records, claims and compliance. Effective communicator with all levels including executives/senior management. Proactive approach and collaborative attitude with HR department team members and management. Ability to read, analyze and interpret benefits and financial reports and other legal documents. Ability to effectively present information to team members and management. Ability to work with different cultures to effectively deliver results. Computer Skills – Proficient with Microsoft Office programs, including excel, word and PowerPoint. Competencies Care for People Chase Excellence Every Day Dare to Push Boundaries Empower People to Act Move Further TogetherPay Range $69,964.86 - $91,147.27 Pay will be based on several variables that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to, job-related skills, experience, relevant education or training, etc.Equal Employment Opportunities KUS provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, including pregnancy and childbirth and related medical conditions, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, legally protected physical disability or mental disability, legally protected medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, family care or medical leave status, protected veteran or military status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. KUS complies with applicable law governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which KUS has offices. The KUS EEO policy applies to all areas of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, discipline, termination and all other privileges, terms and conditions of employment.