Human Resources Benefits Specialist

Compensation: $52,501 Compensation Type: Exempt Employment Type: Regular Grade: E03 Position Summary Are you eager to make a positive impact by guiding employees through benefits and HR programs that support their well‑being and success? Do you thrive in a culture that values collaboration, accountability, and excellence? San Juan College is seeking a well‑qualified and highly motivated individual for the full‑time position of Human Resources Benefits Specialist. Responsibilities Assist in the administration of benefits and compensation; resolve employee benefits issues; enroll new employees; resolve billing or data errors. Provide support to employees in various HR‑related topics such as benefits and leaves and resolve any issues that may arise. Determine employee eligibility for FMLA and short‑term disability benefits; coordinate, track, and communicate with employees regarding their FMLA and Short‑Term Disability benefits. Ensure new employees are enrolled in benefits programs; remove terminated employees and coordinate COBRA benefits. Schedule and conduct exit interviews for separating employees; communicate continued benefits options and final pay. Maintain records of new hires, changes, and separations of employees. Coordinate training for compliance and employee development. Administer special projects as directed by the VP of Human Resources and Legal Activities. Assist the Benefits Manager in planning and executing wellness events and activities. Work with retirees on enrollment in and questions related to retiree healthcare benefits. Serve on the Employee Enrichment and Appreciation Committee (EEAC); lead events such as the Thanksgiving potluck, retiree reception, and other campus‑wide events. Coordinate and facilitate employee awards, including voting and selection of awardees with committees, Institutional Research, and other stakeholders; serve as head of the Awards committee. Develop and implement strategic communications with employees and retirees regarding benefit changes, open enrollments, the Family Medical Leave Act, the Affordable Care Act, the Wellness Fair, and other benefits‑related topics. Conduct new employee benefits orientation. Ensure compliance with college objectives and with state and federal laws and regulations. Serve as liaison between the employee and New Mexico State insurance providers and COBRA. Assist payroll with research and resolution of eligibility and payment of short‑term disability benefits. Track and maintain Sick Leave Bank balance, transactions, and members. Prepare benefits information for annual employment contracts. Coordinate payment of and track all banked overload credits and Embedded Honors credits for all faculty. Perform related duties as assigned. Qualifications Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with the completion of an Associate’s degree in a course of study related to the occupational field. Must have sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with having had a similar position for two to three years. SHRM‑CP Certification is preferred. Benefits Excellent medical, dental and vision coverage options Generous paid leave plans and holiday pay Public Employee Pension Plan (NMERB) Optional 403(b) Tax‑Deferred Annuities, 457 and Roth Plans Flex Spending accounts Life and Disability coverage Employee Wellness Incentives Employee Assistance Program Tuition waiver Free SJC Gym Membership Free Library services EEO Statement San Juan College is dedicated to providing equal employment and educational opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, genetic, veteran's status, or on the basis of any other category protected under federal, state and local laws. This position will remain open until filled, with the first review of applications occurring on Monday, June 15, 2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr