Benefits Specialist

Benefits Specialist Department: Human Resources - Payroll & Benefits Employment Type: Full Time Location: Team Member - American Veterinary Group Reporting To: Susan Gunsher Description Join Our Team as a Benefits Specialist – Tampa, FL (Hybrid) At American Veterinary Group (AVG), we are committed to Nurturing Relationships, Acting with Integrity, Communicating Transparently, and Pursuing Excellence. The Benefits Specialist is responsible for day-to-day administration of the organization’s employee benefit programs and serves as a primary resource for employees regarding benefit eligibility, enrollment, coverage, and plan administration. This position works closely with Benefits leadership, employees, HR partners, payroll, benefit vendors, carriers, and third-party administrators to ensure accurate and timely administration of health and welfare and retirement programs. The Benefits Specialist provides responsive employee support while maintaining benefit records, processing enrollment changes, administering qualifying life events, assisting with leave-related benefit matters, and ensuring benefit programs are administered consistently with plan documents and applicable regulations. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Administer employee benefit programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, HSA, FSA, 401(k), COBRA, and other benefit programs. Serve as a primary point of contact for employee benefit questions and provide clear explanations regarding eligibility, coverage, enrollment, deductions, claims, and benefit plan provisions. Oversee new hire benefit enrollments, qualifying life events, terminations, dependent changes, and other benefit-related transactions. Monitor EDI file exchanges with each vendor and resolve discrepancies as needed. Review benefit elections and supporting documentation to ensure changes comply with plan provisions and applicable Section 125 requirements. Monitor benefit enrollment deadlines and follow up with employees regarding incomplete or outstanding elections and documentation. Coordinate benefit coverage changes with insurance carriers, third-party administrators, payroll, and HRIS/benefits administration systems. Research and resolve complex eligibility, enrollment, coverage, and payroll deduction discrepancies. Assist employees with benefit claim and carrier issues and coordinate escalated matters with vendors as appropriate.Back to role description Support COBRA administration, including reviewing qualifying events and ensuring required information is transmitted accurately and timely to the COBRA administrator. Assist with administration of employee benefits during FMLA and other approved leaves of absence, including employee premium collection and benefit status changes. Review payroll benefit deductions and identify discrepancies requiring correction. Maintain accurate employee benefit records and documentation. Assist with annual Open Enrollment activities, including employee communications, system testing, enrollment support, and post-enrollment audits. Support new‑hire orientation and benefit education programs. Coordinate with benefit vendors regarding eligibility files, enrollment issues, employee questions, and administrative concerns. Assist with preparation and distribution of required benefit notices and employee communications. Maintain confidentiality of employee and protected health information and comply with HIPAA privacy requirements. Support benefit audits and compliance activities. Assist with 401(k) enrollment, eligibility, contribution, and participant administration issues. Identify opportunities to improve benefit administration processes and employee service. Perform other benefit‑related duties and special projects as assigned Skills, Knowledge and Expertise High School Diploma (Required) 2+ years of experience in employee benefits, Human Resources, benefits administration, or a related field preferred. 2+ years working knowledge of employee health and welfare benefit programs. Familiarity with ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ACA, Section 125, FMLA, HSA, and FSA requirements preferred. Experience working with HRIS, payroll, and/or benefits administration systems. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and other Microsoft Office applications. Benefits Here’s what you can expect at AVG: Competitive salary Flexible work schedules to support work-life balance Comprehensive group insurance including medical, dental, and vision Paid Family Leave and Paid Parental Leave (including maternity & paternity) Paid Time Off One Life Balance Day for added flexibility Pet Discounts to keep your furry family members covered Retirement Savings Plan with employer match to help build your future Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health and wellbeing support Career development resources may include: Learning and development programs Tuition reimbursement A vibrant, inclusive culture At AVG , you’re more than an employee, you are part of a community that values your whole self. We’re here to help you grow, thrive, and feel supported every step of the way. If you’re passionate about payroll, thrive in a collaborative environment, and are ready to make a difference - we’d love to hear from you. #J-18808-Ljbffr