Benefits Specialist

Benefits Specialist

National healthcare organization headquartered in Charlotte is seeking a Benefits Specialist. This role is responsible for handling day-to-day administration for the benefits department with a heavy focus on complex benefit issues and appeals. Seeking someone with heavy benefits experience who can jump right in the position.

This is a contract to hire position with a pay rate between $35-38 hr. based on experience.

Essential Functions

• Administer day-to-day operations of health & welfare benefits, retirement plans (401(k)/Roth), and spending accounts (e.g., HSA), ensuring accurate and timely processing.
• Serve as primary contact for benefit related escalations; resolve issues, research discrepancies, and coordinate with vendors for resolution.
• Develop, document, maintain, and consistently follow standardized processes, procedures, and internal controls across all benefit programs.
• Ensure data integrity through regular validation of files, transactions, eligibility, and system updates; perform error correction as needed.
• Execute compliance and audit activities, including maintaining audit-ready documentation, supporting annual audits, and coordinating required filings.
• Review and reconcile benefit invoices, funding, and reimbursements to ensure alignment with plan terms and vendor contracts.
• Partner with vendors and internal stakeholders to support program execution, issue resolution, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Identify risks, gaps, and inefficiencies; recommend process improvements to strengthen consistency, controls, and compliance.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in human resources, business, or related field preferred.
• 3 years of experience in benefits administration, including retirement plan exposure (401(k) required, 5+ years preferred.
• Working knowledge of benefits and retirement regulations (e.g., ERISA, applicable federal/state laws) preferred.
• Experience with HRIS, payroll systems, and benefit administration platforms required.

Required Certifications, Licenses, and Registrations

• None

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of health & welfare and retirement plan administration, including high level knowledge of applicable regulations and compliance requirements.
• Strong attention to detail with ability to audit, reconcile, and ensure data accuracy.
• Ability to document, follow, and improve standardized processes and internal controls.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills to identify issues, correct errors, and mitigate risk.
• Effective communication and customer service skills for employees, vendors, and stakeholder interaction.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, HRIS, and benefits administration systems.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance.

Key Skills / Words: Human Resources HR Retirement Disability Benefits Workers Compensation