Benefits Specialist

Benefits Specialist Job Category: Administrative / Clerical | Requisition Number: BENEF001322 | Posted: April 21, 2026 | Full Time | On-site | Rate: $60,000 USD per year | Location: Monmouth University Main Campus, West Long Branch, NJ This role is responsible for managing employee benefits programs, ensuring accurate eligibility and enrollment processes, and supporting the design and administration of competitive benefit plans. The ideal candidate will bring strong systems expertise, a collaborative mindset, and a passion for enhancing the employee experience. Key Responsibilities Coordinate daily administration of employee health and welfare benefits including medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short- and long-term disability programs, EAP, Telehealth, and retirement programs as well as ancillary benefits and COBRA administration. Manage eligibility and enrollment processes, including new hires, life events, and open enrollment. Interpret and support benefit plan designs, policies, and communications. Support and administer Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), including employee education and issue resolution. Maintain and optimize HRIS systems related to benefits administration. Respond to employee inquiries regarding benefits plans, coverage, and claims. Coordinate with benefits vendors and brokers to resolve issues and ensure smooth operations. Conduct weekly new employee orientations and provide follow-up to new employee inquiries; present benefits to special employee populations. Support annual open enrollment activities by preparing materials, hosting informational sessions, and assisting employees with elections. Collaborate with the enrollment and administration teams to document processes and maximize efficiencies where possible. Maintain accurate benefits data in the HRIS; process qualifying life events, new hires, terminations, and plan changes. Reconcile monthly benefit invoices and ensure timely payment and accuracy. Assist employees in understanding benefit options, plan provisions, and eligibility guidelines. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience. 2+ years of experience in benefits administration or related HR function. Progressive experience working with HR systems. HRIS experience. Knowledge of benefit plans and retirement programs (including 403(b)). Strong communication, organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Demonstrated ability to handle confidential information with discretion. Preferred Qualifications Experience in higher education. Knowledge of regulatory requirements related to health and welfare benefits, including ACA, HIPAA, ERISA and others. PHR, SHRM, or CEBS certification or willingness to obtain. Experience with UKG or other HRIS benefit platforms. Benefits 403(b) Retirement Plan Generous Paid Time Off Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Benefits Tuition Remission for employee upon hire Tuition Remission for spouse or civil‑union partner and IRS dependent after one‑year of full‑time continuous employment Employer‑paid Short & Long‑Term Disability Employer‑sponsored Life Insurance Employee Assistance Program (EAP), FSA, Telehealth and more To view a full list of benefits, visit Department: Human Resources | Work Schedule: Monday through Friday | Total Weeks Per Year: 52 | Hours Per Week: 36.25 | Expected Salary: $60,000 – $68,000 This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr