Benefits and Compliance Specialist

SUMMARY: The Benefits and Compliance Specialist is responsible for ensuring organizational compliance with state and federal employment regulations by maintaining accurate, audit-ready employee records and supporting employee benefits administration. This role oversees employee file compliance across licensed states, manages benefits enrollment and leave documentation, supports internal and external audits, administers background check processes, and ensures data integrity within HRIS systems. The position is also responsible for maintaining employee benefits and leave management processes, including benefits eligibility, enrollment changes, leave tracking, and compliance with applicable leave policies and regulations. The Benefits and Compliance Specialist plays a vital role in safeguarding organizational integrity, supporting employee benefit programs, and mitigating compliance risk. JOB DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: HR Compliance - Monitor and maintain ongoing compliance of employee personnel files in accordance with licensed state requirements.

• Process background checks for employees seeking licensure in additional states.
• Manage background check renewals prior to expiration to ensure continuous compliance.
• Coordinate and track state-specific compliance documentation with employees and managers.

Audits, Licensing & Reporting - Coordinate and provide support for internal and external audits.

• Maintain accurate, audit-ready personnel and compliance records.
• Compile, prepare, and submit required documentation and reports for regulatory audits.

Employee Records & HRIS Management - Maintain accurate, consistent, and confidential employee data within HRIS systems.

• Perform regular audits of personnel files and employment documentation to ensure compliance.
• Manage employee records in accordance with retention and recordkeeping requirements.
• Ensure Form I-9 documentation is completed accurately and remains compliant.
• Support annual regulatory reporting, including EEO-1, OSHA, and other required filings.

Benefits & Leave Administration - Administer employee benefits programs, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plans, and COBRA.

• Complete a thorough review and reconciliation of monthly insurance invoices with employee deductions and payroll records.
• Serve as the primary contact for leave administration, including FMLA, short-term disability, and ADA accommodations.
• Serve as a primary contact for workers compensation claims and coordinate with insurance carriers and internal stakeholders.

Employee Engagement Initiatives - Serve as the primary point of contact for FunSquad initiatives, leading the planning and coordination of engagement events, meetings, and activities.

• Support and lead employee engagement initiatives focused on morale-building and strengthening organizational culture.
• Perform other duties and special projects assigned to support organizational objectives and enhance operational efficiency.

Qualifications MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: - High School Diploma or equivalent.

• Three years of experience in Human Resources, HR Compliance, or related administrative HR role.
• Experience administering employee benefits and leave programs, including FMLA, ADA accommodations, workers compensation, and paid leave tracking, while ensuring compliance with company policies and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Working knowledge of state and federal employment laws and compliance requirements, including personnel file management and record retention
• Experience processing and monitoring background checks, licensure requirements, and compliance documentation
• Experience supporting or participating in internal and/or external audits
• Proficiency with HRIS systems and maintaining accurate, confidential employee records
• Knowledge of Form I-9 compliance and employment eligibility verification
• Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word, and Outlook
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify compliance gaps and recommend corrective actions
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS: - Human Resources certification such as PHR, SHRM-CP, or similar

• Experience supporting multi-state compliance and licensing requirements
• Familiarity with EEO-1, OSHA, and other regulatory reporting
• Experience working in highly regulated environments (e.g., healthcare, child welfare, nonprofit, or social services)

WORKING CONDITIONS: - Operate primarily in a climate-controlled office environment with a fast-paced workflow, requiring the ability to shift between tasks, manage frequent interruptions, and meet time-sensitive deadlines efficiently. - Regular, punctual attendance is essential for maintaining efficient service delivery. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: - Frequent walking, standing, bending, squatting, reaching, and twisting. - Regular use of office equipment and handling of documents as part of daily tasks. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Gladney Center for Adoption is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to these factors. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. #J-18808-Ljbffr Gladney Center for Adoption