Benefits Specialist

Position Summary The Benefits Specialist supports the administration of employee benefits programs and leave management processes. This role serves as a key resource for employees regarding benefit eligibility, enrollment, and plan information while ensuring accurate benefit administration through the Human Resources Information System (HRIS). The Benefits Specialist partners with internal stakeholders and external vendors to maintain data integrity, reconcile benefit premiums, administer leave of absence programs, and support annual Open Enrollment activities. Responsibilities Benefits Administration Administer employee benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, and other voluntary benefits. Process benefit enrollments, changes, and terminations in the HRIS system. Review and determine employee eligibility for benefit plans in accordance with company policies and plan requirements. Audit benefit data and maintain accurate employee benefit records. Investigate and resolve benefit-related issues and discrepancies. Vendor Management and Reconciliation Review discrepancy reports and work with vendors and internal teams to resolve enrollment and eligibility issues. Perform monthly premium reconciliations and prepare premium payments to benefit vendors. Track employee benefit arrears balances and coordinate collection efforts as needed. Assist with vendor audits and compliance reporting activities. Leave of Absence Administration Coordinate leave of absence administration through the organization's third‑party leave management vendor. Monitor leave eligibility, leave status, and return‑to‑work dates. Maintain accurate leave records and ensure timely communication with employees and managers. Partner with Human Resources and the leave vendor to resolve leave‑related issues and questions. Employee Communication and Support Respond to employee inquiries regarding benefit plans, eligibility, enrollment, claims issues, and leave programs. Develop and distribute employee communications related to benefit programs and plan changes. Conduct benefit orientations for new hires and support ongoing employee education efforts. Assist in the preparation and maintenance of benefit‑related policies, procedures, and educational materials. Assist with the coordination, promotion, and administration of employee wellness initiatives, wellness challenges, health screenings, and other well‑being programs. Open Enrollment Support the planning, coordination, and execution of the annual Open Enrollment process. Assist with preparation of enrollment materials, employee communications, presentations, and system configuration. Conduct enrollment audits and ensure timely processing of employee elections. Workers' Compensation Administration Perform monthly premium reporting and assist with reporting and recordkeeping requirements. Reporting and Analytics Generate recurring and ad hoc benefits and leave of absence reports. Analyze benefit data for accuracy and identify trends or discrepancies. Support compliance, audit, and management reporting requests. Qualifications Education and Experience Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field required. Minimum of one (1) year of experience in benefits administration, human resources, payroll, or a related field. Experience working with HRIS systems required. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including formulas, pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, data analysis, and reporting. Solid understanding of employee benefits administration principles and practices. Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment. Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem‑solving skills. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information. Customer‑service oriented with the ability to build positive relationships with employees and vendors. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and HRIS applications. Preferred Qualifications HRIS administration experience within Paycom or a similar HRIS platform. Experience with leave of absence administration and workers' compensation processes. Professional certification such as SHRM‑CP, PHR, or CEBS coursework in progress is a plus. Physical Requirements Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer. Occasional travel may be required to support benefit education and enrollment sessions. Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 15 pounds. Work Environment Hybrid work environment. #J-18808-Ljbffr