BENEFITS SPECIALIST JOB DESCRIPTION

Few HR functions carry the compliance weight that employee benefits does. ERISA filings, ACA reporting, 401(k) non-discrimination testing, and FMLA designation decisions all land on this desk, and errors in any of them carry legal and financial consequences for the employer. The Benefits Specialist owns the day-to-day operation of health and welfare plans, retirement programs, and leave administration for a US workforce. That ownership spans invoice reconciliation, vendor management, open enrollment execution, and direct employee support, with accuracy and confidentiality as non-negotiable standards throughout.

As the Benefits Specialist, you will administer the full suite of US employee benefit programs, including health, dental, vision, disability, life, FSA/HSA, and 401(k), while ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations governing qualified plans. You will sit within the HR or Total Rewards function, partnering closely with Payroll, HRIS, and external carriers to maintain data integrity, process accuracy, and a responsive employee experience across enrollment, leave, and claims cycles.

Career Impact: Deep fluency in ERISA, ACA, FMLA, and ADA compliance positions a Benefits Specialist as a specialized HR practitioner whose expertise does not transfer easily across functions, building a durable professional identity in Total Rewards.

Business Impact: The benefit programs this role administers represent a significant share of total compensation spend; errors in enrollment, invoicing, or compliance filings expose the organization to penalty risk and erode employee trust in the programs designed to retain them.

Growth Opportunity: Consistent ownership of 401(k) audits, non-discrimination testing, and open enrollment cycles creates a natural path toward a Senior Benefits Specialist or Benefits Manager seat, and broadens eligibility for the SHRM-CP or CEBS credential that distinguishes candidates in this field.

• Administer daily benefit enrollments, life event changes, COBRA elections, and plan terminations within established SLA windows to maintain eligibility accuracy.
• Manage leave of absence programs, including FMLA, ADA accommodations, STD, LTD, and state-specific leaves, from initial request through return-to-work coordination.
• Execute annual open enrollment, including system configuration, employee communications, vendor coordination, and post-enrollment audits.
• Reconcile and process benefit invoices from insurance carriers and plan administrators, ensuring accurate payroll deductions and timely submission to accounts payable.
• Complete required compliance filings and audits, including ACA 1095-C reporting, 401(k) non-discrimination testing, Form 5500 preparation, and plan document maintenance.
• Monitor HRIS benefit data feeds to external vendors, resolving discrepancies promptly to preserve enrollment accuracy and downstream payroll integrity.
• Serve as primary employee contact for benefit inquiries via inbox, phone, and case management, escalating complex or sensitive issues to the Benefits Manager.
• Support wellness program administration, including tracking participation, coordinating vendor deliverables, and communicating incentive structures to employees.

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• 3 or more years of benefits administration experience, with demonstrated ownership of health and welfare plan operations and leave management.
• Working knowledge of US benefit regulations including ERISA, HIPAA, ACA, FMLA, ADA, and 401(k) plan requirements.
• Proficiency in benefits reconciliation processes including invoice auditing, payroll deduction verification, and HRIS data integrity monitoring.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and deadlines with strong attention to detail and organizational discipline.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex plan provisions into clear guidance for employees at all levels.
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential employee information with discretion, professionalism, and compliance with data privacy requirements.

• PHR, SHRM-CP, or Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) designation, or active pursuit of one.
• Experience administering benefits across multiple US states, with familiarity in state-specific leave laws in California, New Jersey, or New York.
• Prior involvement in 401(k) plan audits or non-discrimination testing cycles as a primary contributor.
• Experience working in a shared services or HR operations environment supporting a workforce of 500 or more employees.

• Benefit invoice reconciliation accuracy rate, measuring error-free processing of carrier bills against payroll deductions each cycle.
• HRIS data feed error rate, tracking frequency and resolution speed of enrollment discrepancies flagged by vendor file audits.
• Open enrollment completion rate within the designated window, reflecting administrative readiness and employee communication reach.
• ACA and 401(k) compliance filing timeliness, measured against IRS and DOL submission deadlines each plan year.
• Leave case cycle time, tracking average days from employee notice of need to formal FMLA designation or accommodation determination.
• Employee benefits inquiry resolution rate within defined SLA, measured through case management tool closure data.
• Typical tools: HRIS platforms (commonly Workday or ADP Workforce Now); benefits administration systems (commonly Benefitfocus or PlanSource); advanced Excel functions including pivot tables and VLOOKUP.

• Base Salary Range: $55,000 - $80,000 annually, depending on experience and geographic market
• Bonus: Discretionary annual bonus of 5-10% of base salary at most employers
• Equity: Typically not offered at this level; possible at tech-sector employers
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contributes the majority of premiums
• PTO: 15-20 days annually, plus standard US federal holidays
• Common Perks: 401(k) with employer match, FSA/HSA access, professional development stipend toward SHRM or CEBS certification

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, and all offers are made to candidates who are authorized to work in the United States. Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process - requests may be submitted at any time. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

The Benefits Specialist owns the end-to-end administration of US health, retirement, and leave programs, serving as the primary point of contact for employee inquiries and liaising with insurance carriers, plan administrators, and brokers to resolve claim issues. Working within the HR function and reporting to the Global Benefits Manager, this role enables compliance and employee experience through benefits orientations, Open Enrollment support, invoice reconciliation, and required filings including 1095-C and 401(k) audits.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as main point of contact for assisting with employee inquiries and benefits inbox.
• Liaise between employees and various insurance carriers, plan administrators, and our benefits brokers to resolve potentially sensitive benefit-related claim issues or other problems.
• Assist with administration of our leave of absence and accommodations programs.
• Conduct bi-weekly new hire benefit orientations and maintain benefit orientation slides.
• Reconcile and submit invoices for employee benefits programs such as medical and life insurance, dental, optical, disability, and accidental death insurance.
• Assist with payroll processing for benefits and leave of absence.
• Assist with launch and administration of Open Enrollment.
• Maintain internal benefit intranet pages and keep policies/documents up to date.
• Support Global Benefits Manager with required filings and audits for US benefit programs (1095-C, 401k audit, discrimination testing, etc.).

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred.
• 5 to 7 years of related benefits experience.
• Knowledge of U.S. health benefits, retirement plans, leaves of absence, and applicable laws/regulations, including ERISA, HIPAA, and 401(k).
• Demonstrated success in managing projects in a high-growth company, with experience in tech and gaming companies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with Workday preferred.
• High level of integrity, transparency, and creativity in solving business problems.
• Customer-first mindset with the ability to build trust at all levels of the organization.

Embedded within the EMEA Reward function, the Benefits Specialist oversees all aspects of Dyson's UK benefit programs to drive engagement, support talent attraction and retention, and deliver an excellent experience for all employees in the UK organisation. Working closely with the EMEA Benefits Manager, HR, Employee Services, and external providers, this role delivers market-competitive benefit design through annual enrolment management, provider renewal and tendering, data analysis, and stakeholder communications.

Core Functions

• Support benefit design, provider renewal and tendering processes, and provide input to current plan design and potential opportunities for change.
• Analyse current benefits including competitiveness, usage, services, coverage, effectiveness, cost, and employee experience.
• Interpret and analyse data, processes, and policy to manage 2nd line benefit queries.
• Maintain the technical accuracy of all benefit-owned documentation.
• Manage ongoing relationships with external providers such as brokers and suppliers.
• Undertake analysis of external data to assess market competitiveness and keep up-to-date with market changes, employment law, and regulation.
• Manage project delivery of the annual benefits enrolment, including budget analysis, cost projections, and summary reports.
• Build awareness of the benefit offering across the business by developing communication materials and seeking feedback for future enhancements.
• Act as initial contact and partner for HR, Employee Services, and internal stakeholders to provide benefits advice and input into business projects.

Qualifications & Experience

• Junior to mid-career level experience in Reward, with a focus on UK employee benefits.
• Experience managing benefits through an online platform, including renewals across multiple countries or program redesign.
• Experience working within a matrixed organisation with a wide variety of internal clients and external providers.
• High attention to detail and accuracy with excellent Excel skills.
• Good project management and presentation skills with the ability to handle multiple key stakeholders.
• Comfortable operating as a self-starter and as a team player in an international company.

Reporting to the Compensation, Benefits and HRIS Team leadership, the Benefits Specialist shapes the day-to-day administration and annual open enrollment of group health, dental, vision, disability, retirement, and other benefit plans across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Partnering with HR colleagues, payroll, and external vendors, this role enables regulatory compliance and a positive colleague experience through benefits onboarding, leave administration, vendor file monitoring, and annual projects including 401(k) audits and ACA reporting.

Primary Duties

• Serve as the subject matter expert on North America benefits for colleagues and the business.
• Manage the day-to-day administration and annual open enrollment of benefits and retirement plans in North America.
• Administer the benefits onboarding process for all new hires in the region.
• Manage leave administration and semi-monthly payroll close and funding process for the United States and Canada.
• Monitor weekly file feeds for errors to outside vendors, resolve issues promptly, and implement measures to prevent recurrence.
• Document and maintain administrative procedures for assigned benefits processes.
• Ensure compliance with applicable government regulations and the timeliness and accuracy of required reporting and fees.
• Support annual benefit projects such as the 401(k) NDT, 401(k) audit, and ACA reporting.
• Report on benefit costs and support wellness programs.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in business administration or HR.
• PHR or SHRM qualification desirable but not essential.
• 3-5 years of experience working in a benefits position, with preferred experience in open enrollment planning and execution.
• Knowledge of applicable government regulations and benefits compliance requirements.
• Computer proficiency with Microsoft Office products including Excel and PowerPoint, and experience with HRIS and benefits databases.
• Excellent customer service, communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Effective planning and priority-setting with the ability to manage several complex projects simultaneously under pressure.
• Exceptional attention to detail and sense of urgency.

Sitting at the intersection of employee experience and total rewards compliance, the Benefits Specialist delivers first-point-of-contact support for health and welfare benefits questions, open enrollment, and new hire onboarding while maintaining plan documents, file feeds, and benefit payroll data. Operating across HR, payroll, and external vendors, this role advances accurate benefits administration through deduction audits, annual compliance reporting for NDT, ACA, and HCSO, and wellness program support.

Duties

• Serve as the first point of contact for employee questions and support on health and welfare benefits and plans.
• Support annual open enrollment processes and initial enrollment and onboarding of newly hired employees.
• Review and maintain employee eligibility for new employees, life events, and terminations.
• Ensure file feeds to benefit vendors are accurate and support delivery of accurate benefit payroll files.
• Maintain health and welfare benefits information and support communication tools to enhance understanding of the total rewards package.
• Maintain and update plan documents, Handbook postings, and Total Rewards-related process documentation.
• Complete annual compliance reporting for NDT, ACA, and HCSO and deliver annual compliance notifications.
• Conduct benefit deduction audits, monitor data integrity of benefit enrollments and payroll deductions, and resolve issues with vendors and payroll.
• Support wellness programs, vendor process improvements, and firm culture activities.

Skills & Qualifications

• B.A. or B.S. degree.
• 3 years of experience in Total Rewards, benefits administration, HR, payroll, or a related area.
• History of working with confidential and personnel data.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office products, particularly Excel.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• A growth mindset and ability to thrive in ambiguous environments.
• Ability to work non-standard hours and from home as necessary.
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods and work on a computer.

A key member of the HR team, the Benefits Specialist leads full-cycle FMLA leave administration from initial notice through return to work, including eligibility determination, medical certification, and intermittent leave accounting across multiple states. Collaborating across employees, managers, and legal and HR partners, this role ensures organizational compliance with federal, state, and local leave laws while maintaining confidential records and facilitating ADA accommodation requests.

Functions

• Communicate with employees regarding their needs for leave and/or modified work schedules.
• Ensure employees are aware of their responsibilities and required documentation to qualify for and take a leave of absence.
• Handle the full FMLA leave administration process from initial notice through return to work, including paperwork, eligibility determination, medical certification, and intermittent leave accounting.
• Maintain reasonable communication with employees on leave and relay information between employees and managers during leave.
• Advise managers and employees on the interaction of leave laws with paid time off, short-term disability, and long-term disability.
• Oversee the return-to-work process for employees returning from FMLA and other leaves.
• Facilitate accommodation requests under the ADA and recommend revisions to company leave policies to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
• Maintain complete and accurate records of leave and accommodation requests and preserve confidentiality of employee medical documentation.

Requirements

• 5+ years of multi-state leave administration experience, with preference for CA, NJ, and NY.
• Extensive knowledge of leave requirements and legal protections under FMLA, ADA, and other applicable laws.
• Experience with Workday preferred.
• Proficient in Google Office Suite.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Good written and verbal communication and organizational skills.

Accurate member support and benefits navigation depend on the Benefits Specialist, who serves as an on-site advocate, helping members understand their benefits structure, locate in-network providers, and resolve advocacy cases from initiation through full resolution. Based within client-assigned facilities and participating in vendor escalation calls, scorecard reviews, and all-hands meetings, this role enables a consistent member experience across phone, in-person, and email channels while maintaining HIPAA-compliant records.

Accountabilities

• Understand all resources within the client benefits structure, including federal guideline implications, and educate members on available resources.
• Make appropriate referrals to HealthFitness and/or vendor programs and resources.
• Provide on-site presence at assigned facilities regularly and at special events including screenings, benefits fairs, and site meetings.
• Participate in client meetings including Vendor Escalation Calls, Scorecard Review Meetings, and All-Hands Calls as assigned.
• Provide support on member advocacy cases from initiation to full resolution with ongoing status updates throughout.
• Help members identify and locate physicians, dentists, hospitals, and other wellness services in their benefits network.
• Provide consistent member experience across all communication channels, including phone, in-person, and email.
• Maintain complete and accurate files and records in compliance with HIPAA and Data Privacy regulations.

Experience & Qualifications

• High School Diploma required; Bachelor's degree a plus.
• Minimum 3 years of related healthcare/health insurance experience, claims processing, or provider billing.
• Knowledge of HIPAA and Data Privacy regulations.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, as well as data entry and email applications.
• Strong presentation skills for a variety of audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently in a fast-paced, constantly changing environment with minimal supervision.

As the Benefits Specialist, this role delivers administrative and analytical support to the brokerage service team, including pre-renewal and marketing reports, benefit comparisons, cost analysis, and client open enrollment preparation. The service and account management team relies on this work to maintain accurate client records in the HIB system, resolve claims and service issues with proper E&O procedures, and ensure timely distribution of compliance materials and client correspondence.

Key Deliverables

• Set up pre-renewal, renewal, and marketing reports for the service team.
• Assist in spreading marketing results, including benefit comparisons and cost analysis.
• Work with the service team on employee contributions and strategies to meet client budgetary needs.
• Assist with preparation of quarterly and annual experience reports and participate in annual open enrollment meetings, health fairs, and webinars.
• Collect new client information and accurately record it into the HIB client management system.
• Distribute client correspondence, communication materials, and compliance notes for the account management team.
• Assist with group applications, policy termination notices, and client 5500 processing.
• Assist the account management team in resolving claims and service issues with thorough documentation and proper E&O procedures.
• Maintain an action calendar for the team and handle scanning, printing, binding, and mailing of necessary materials.

Background & Experience

• High School diploma required; Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Active CA Life and Disability license required, or ability to obtain.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in group health insurance or with a benefits brokerage/consulting firm.
• Experience with Brokerage Builder, Ease, and Carrier Portals a plus.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Effective written and oral communication and collaboration skills.
• Organized, able to manage time effectively, and maintains a professional demeanor.

Benefits Specialist delivers end-to-end administration of the company's health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, 401(k), and COBRA programs, managing leave of absence processes and ensuring data accuracy across HRIS and benefit management systems. The work directly supports compliance with federal and state requirements through plan audits, invoice reconciliation using pivot tables and VLOOKUP, payroll deduction reviews, and drafting of benefit communications in collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Areas of Ownership

• Administer group benefit and wellness programs including health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, 401(k), and COBRA.
• Assist employees with benefit enrollment, questions, and claims.
• Manage and support all leaves of absence, including FMLA, STD, LTD, ADA, parental leave, and military leave, in coordination with employees, managers, and third-party administrators.
• Monitor benefit management systems and HRIS to ensure data accuracy across all systems and automated feeds.
• Establish, audit, process, and reconcile invoices from insurance providers and submit to AP for timely payment.
• Complete benefit plan audits and reconciliations, including semi-monthly payroll deductions and 401(k) contributions, using pivot tables and VLOOKUP.
• Support annual US benefit and 401(k) compliance calendar and external plan audits.
• Draft benefit materials, communications, and education materials in collaboration with multiple groups.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state legal requirements for qualified plans, including plan documents, vendor contracts, compliance testing, audits, and government filings.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, human resources, or a related field preferred.
• Experience with leave administration, including ADA and reasonable accommodation a plus.
• Strong understanding of HR processes, data, and confidentiality.
• Highly proficient in Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Ability to identify and solve problems and escalate issues as necessary.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects with strict attention to detail.
• Excellent writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, cross-functional team setting.

The Benefits Specialist produces accurate and compliant administration of bartaco's medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and FSA/HSA benefit plans, partnering closely with the Benefits Manager on open enrollment execution, carrier and broker issue resolution, and ACA compliance. Working alongside the HR team and in direct contact with employees, carriers, and vendors, this role advances the employee benefits experience through timely communications, strategy participation, and expert benefits inquiry support.

Role Responsibilities

• Partner with the Benefits Manager to administer employee benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and FSA/HSA.
• Partner with the Benefits Manager to execute the annual Benefits Open Enrollment process.
• Participate in strategy meetings to review current benefit plans, internal processes, and systems and provide recommendations.
• Respond to benefit inquiries from employees and resolve issues with carriers and brokers.
• Assist with ACA compliance and all reporting requirements.
• Assist the Benefits Manager with all compliance matters, including 5500 preparation, 401(k) audits, and non-discrimination testing.
• Create and maintain benefits communications ensuring accuracy and tailoring content to meet audience needs.
• Provide responsive and timely communication to internal customers and external carriers and vendors via phone, email, and in person.

Required Qualifications

• 2-4 years of benefits experience.
• Working knowledge of benefit concepts, laws, compliance, and regulations.
• Proven record of maintaining confidential information and exercising solid judgment around sensitive matters.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel, including VLOOKUPs, pivot tables, and formulas.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and ability to multi-task.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate with managers, employees, and the HR team.
• Availability to travel up to 10% and to work nights and weekends as needed.

Embedded within the patient care team, the Patient Benefits Specialist develops financial assessments, conducts benefits orientations, and screens patients for Medicare, Medicaid, Marketplace, and private insurance eligibility to maximize reimbursement and ensure full understanding of coverage options. Working closely with providers, medical assistants, and internal staff using a team-based approach, this role enables revenue cycle integrity by entering and updating benefit coverage in the EHR, coordinating Medicaid applications and redeterminations, and providing HIPAA-compliant support to patients and families.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Conduct benefit orientation and explain financial requirements to ensure full understanding of benefit programs and patient responsibilities.
• Conduct financial assessment interviews and screen patients for healthcare benefits, coverage, and eligibility for grants or other available programs.
• Verify existing third-party and other healthcare coverage to identify current coverage, possible gaps, and explain options to patients and families.
• Assist patients and families with program enrollment based on financial assessment and screening results.
• Enter and update patient benefit coverage information into the EHR and scan required documents ensuring 100% compliance.
• Maintain current knowledge of Medicare, Medicaid, Marketplace, private insurance, HMO, and Sliding Fee Scale rules and regulations, and assist patients with Medicaid applications and annual redetermination.
• Communicate with providers, medical assistants, and other employees using a team-based approach to coordinate patient care.
• Assist patients in navigating the revenue cycle process, uphold HIPAA standards, and provide direct support or warm hand-offs as appropriate.
• Defuse irate callers and patients by working with them to identify and properly address concerns.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 2 years of customer service experience required.
• Knowledge of Medicare, Medicaid, Marketplace insurance programs, and HMO rules and regulations preferred.
• Prior All-Kids and MPE experience preferred.
• Knowledge of EHR and/or EPIC preferred.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office products required.
• Strong written, oral, and presentation communication skills with ability to explain complex rules to diverse audiences; bilingual English and Spanish preferred.
• Cultural competency with experience working in a multi-cultural environment.
• Ability to sit for up to 4 hours at a time.
• Local travel between health centers and community sites required.
• Valid driver's license and proof of insurance.

A key member of the HR operations team, the Public Benefits Specialist refines the daily administration of pension and group benefit plans, coordinates new hire orientations, and serves as the first point of contact for employee benefit inquiries and issue resolution. Collaborating with pension providers, internal HR colleagues, and management, this role advances compliance and data accuracy through monthly and quarterly reconciliations, POWERflex enrolment, pension calculations, and file records management across both Canadian and US programs.

What You'll Do

• Perform work in support of the daily operations of the Pension and Benefits plans, ensuring administrative services are carried out in accordance with established goals and objectives.
• Coordinate and deliver new hire benefit orientation meetings and review documentation for completeness and submission to providers.
• Provide answers and support to employees with benefit-related questions as first point of contact for issue resolution.
• Complete monthly and quarterly reconciliations and reporting for benefit and pension programs and month-end processes.
• Administer the POWERflex program for management employees and complete enrolment for new hires, and request pension calculations for terminated employees and buybacks from the pension provider.
• Maintain employee benefit and pension files, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality, and update required systems with employee benefit data.
• Handle administrative processes including file records management, intranet content updates, logistical planning, invoice review and payment, and statistical reporting.
• Participate in the review and documentation of procedures and support HR team members with other administrative tasks.

Education & Experience

• Undergraduate degree in Human Resources or equivalent.
• CHRP or Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS) preferred.
• 5-7 years of experience, with previous experience in Canadian pension and group benefits administration required.
• Experience in US pension and benefits administration and in unionized environments is an asset.
• Strong analytic skills, mathematical aptitude, and attention to detail.
• Excellent computer skills, including strong proficiency in MS Excel and other MS Office applications.
• Excellent organization, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated customer service skills with the ability to provide a wide range of information and advice to internal and external clients.
• Proven professionalism, discretion, and ability to maintain confidentiality.

Reporting to HR Benefits Operations leadership, the Public Benefits Specialist oversees vendor management, annual enrollment support, and 401(k) inquiry resolution across the North American region while driving compliance and efficiency through benefit documentation maintenance and cross-functional partner collaboration. Partnering with HR Business Partners, internal stakeholders, and external vendors, this role enables a consistent employee experience by managing the benefits mailbox, Total Rewards statements, wellness programs, and SAP SuccessFactors data workflows.

Scope of Work

• Assist in managing the Benefits Operations mailbox, responding to employee, vendor, and internal HR questions relating to plan provisions, enrollments, status changes, and general inquiries.
• Assist with the Annual Enrollment Process including rates, documentation, and testing.
• Assist with vendor management of all health and welfare vendors.
• Assist with Total Rewards Statements and data management.
• Assist operational controls for Benefits Operations processes across North America, driving compliance with other units and vendors for government compliance tracking and reporting.
• Drive efficiency and consistency through the maintenance of benefit documentation and support materials in alignment with plan provisions and policies across the North American region.
• Respond to 401(k) inquiries from HR Business Partners and employees relating to enrollment, eligibility, plan changes, and contribution amounts.
• Participate in the planning and management of employee Wellness Programs and initiatives.
• Partner with internal and external business partners to improve the administration of programs and the employee experience.

Professional Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources or a related field.
• Minimum 3-5 years of HR experience in a Benefits Specialist role or similar HR operations function.
• Experience with 401(k) plans and familiarity with ERISA rules governing these plans.
• Experience working in a shared services environment or cross-functional role in a professional services organization.
• Experience managing data in HR systems and workflows.
• SAP SuccessFactors experience preferred.
• Strong Excel experience required.
• Proven success in managing transformation through people, process, and/or technology.
• Ability to draft and edit internal communications and collaborate with leadership at multiple levels and offshore teams.

A key member of the HR shared services team, the Benefits Specialist advances day-to-day benefits and leave of absence support by responding to employee and manager inquiries, liaising with external vendors, and overseeing wellness benefit programs, including new implementations and campaigns. Collaborating with internal HR partners and management, this role produces timely benefits administration through processing LOA payments, tuition reimbursement, new hire orientation delivery, and streamlined ad hoc and routine task management.

Work Activities

• Provide timely responses to day-to-day Benefits and Leave of Absence questions or issues.
• Serve as a liaison between external vendors and teammates, assisting in issue resolution.
• Monitor the general benefits inbox via phone and email and respond on time.
• Carry out defined ad hoc and routine tasks including processing benefit payments for teammates on LOA, tuition reimbursement, and other required documents.
• Escalate more complex challenges outside the scope of defined practice where appropriate and create recommendations for streamlining processes.
• Participate in the development and execution of orientation programs and procedures for new teammates and ensure they know how to enroll in benefits.
• Oversee day-to-day wellness benefit programs, including new implementations and campaigns.
• React immediately to frequent changes in project, process, or administrative needs.

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1 or more years of demonstrated experience in Human Resources or Benefits Administration.
• Strong Microsoft Office Suite skills, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Demonstrated ability to learn other software as required (Saba, ImageNow, Access, Concur, UltiPro).
• Ability to resolve problems on time, exercise independent judgment, and maintain confidentiality and composure in all settings.
• Accuracy and thoroughness with ability to multi-task efficiently in a fast-paced environment with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to work effectively with employees at all levels.
• Team player with a professional attitude and familiarity with project dynamics and logistics.

Reporting to the Benefits Department leadership, the Benefits Specialist I oversees the timely resolution of benefits inquiries from Associates and managers via phone, email, and service portal case management, while processing transactions across benefits administration, payroll deductions, leave management, and retirement programs. Serving as the primary benefits contact within CHRISTUS Health, this role develops accurate and actionable case documentation, supports vendor and brokerage coordination, and contributes knowledge and best practices across the HR team.

Job Functions

• Serve as the primary benefits contact and support for Associates dealing with sensitive and confidential benefits information.
• Monitor, research, and respond to all HR Cases assigned via the service portal.
• Provide accurate and efficient resolution of issues and inquiries through phone, email, and case management by investigating, utilizing vendor resource tools, educating Associates, and determining appropriate escalation.
• Complete accurate and actionable case documentation in the Case Management tool.
• Assist with transactional inquiries and issues involving vendors and brokerage companies.
• Maintain accuracy and consistency in knowledge by utilizing and contributing to vendor resource tools.
• Communicate effectively across channels to best match Associate style, needs, and level of understanding.
• Support the Benefits Department by sharing knowledge, information, and best practices.
• Code and process invoices through Infor.

Technical Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in HR or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• 2+ years of experience in Human Resources or Benefits Administration.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel, including pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and formulas.
• Accounting skills helpful.
• Exceptional customer service skills and strong collaboration and teamwork skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, critical thinking, and organizational skills.
• Ability to identify complex problems, develop and evaluate options, and implement solutions.
• Excellent written, oral, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to handle ambiguity in a fast-paced environment with multiple concurrent tasks and changing priorities.

Embedded within the HR team, the Benefits Specialist administers daily benefit enrollments, life event changes, COBRA, and leave of absence processes while managing Open Enrollment system setup, invoicing, and vendor communications from end to end. Working closely with payroll, internal partners, and external vendors, this role ensures equitable and compliant benefits administration through deduction audits, 5500 filings, non-discrimination testing, and HSA and FSA enrollment.

Operational Focus

• Administer daily benefit enrollments, life event changes, COBRA, benefit adjustment requests, and life insurance claims on time.
• Report benefit premium adjustments to Payroll as needed for refunds or arrears.
• Maintain employee benefit files and update employee payroll records for benefits.
• Handle benefit inquiries and complaints to ensure equitable, quick, and courteous resolution, escalating as appropriate.
• Manage Open Enrollment including system setup, vendor customer service, documentation updates, and employee and vendor communications.
• Support the leave of absence process by responding to questions from LOA/disability vendors, internal partners, and employees.
• Conduct compliance activities including 5500 filings, annual audits, and non-discrimination testing, and perform quarterly and annual HSA and FSA enrollment.
• Manage benefits invoicing and reconciliations, assist with wellness programs, and serve as main contact for the Benefits and LOA email inbox.
• Work closely with internal partners to ensure benefit and enrollment information is provided to candidates and new employees during onboarding.

Position Requirements

• Associate's degree or equivalent related experience.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in Human Resources, preferably in benefits administration.
• Experience with COBRA, FMLA, ADA, ERISA, HIPAA, 401(k), and ACA regulations.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Ability to troubleshoot system issues related to benefits in the HRIS and other external systems.
• High degree of integrity and ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to deal with all levels of staff and management.
• Ability to perform under pressure with conflicting priorities.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

The HR Benefits Specialist creates and sustains full-cycle benefits administration across health, leave, and workers' compensation programs, including strategic planning, negotiating, and implementing comprehensive benefit plans across global operations. Collaborating with HR team members, employees, managers, insurance carriers, and medical personnel, this role ensures compliance with applicable laws and company policies while overseeing FMLA, PDL, STD, LTD, ADA accommodations, and workers' compensation claims monitoring.

Strategic Responsibilities

• Manage full-cycle benefits functions including strategic planning, negotiating, and implementing comprehensive employee benefit plans, services, and programs.
• Maintain global benefits information and provide recommendations and support on benefits by country.
• Facilitate day-to-day enrollment and changes into benefit programs, conduct periodic audits for compliance and accuracy, and manage renewals and open enrollment.
• Maintain various benefit census reports, both internal and external, and partner with employees and benefit providers to resolve inquiries and issues.
• Administer all leaves of absence, including FMLA, PDL, STD, LTD, military, personal leaves, and workers' compensation, in coordination with employees, managers, and payroll.
• Assess reasonable accommodations under the ADA when applicable.
• Administer the workers' compensation program including claims monitoring, report generation, and communication with employees, managers, insurance carriers, and medical personnel.
• Respond to employee-related injuries in a time-sensitive manner and facilitate medical treatment and the workers' compensation process.

Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in benefits and/or related Human Resources functions.
• Leaves of absence and workers' compensation experience required, with multi-state experience required and global experience a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs including Outlook, Excel, Word, and Visio.
• Organized with the ability to multitask and manage competing priorities while maintaining professionalism at all levels.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills with strong customer service orientation.
• Self-motivated with the ability to exercise independent judgment, take ownership, and operate with minimal supervision.
• Integrity, professionalism, discretion, and ability to maintain confidentiality.

Embedded within the pension administration team, the Public Benefits Specialist executes pension policy development, delivers training and webinar presentations on pension events and transactions, and leads efficiency and process improvement initiatives to support team benchmarks and goals. Working closely with employers, team members, and plan members across onboarding and compliance programs, this role elevates pension administration quality through technical guidance on complex cases, systems development input, and statistical analyses grounded in the OPSEU Pension Plan, Pension Benefits Act, and related legislation.

Leadership Responsibilities

• Act as a senior technical resource on pension legislation and the handling of complex cases.
• Develop administrative policy changes, practices, and procedures by conducting research and analyses of relevant legislation.
• Participate in the development of business requirements and review of technical specifications as part of systems development, contributing to prototype reviews.
• Prepare training plans and deliver training and call coaching to team members on pension events and transactions.
• Actively participate in the pension information sessions program by delivering presentations via webinar or in person.
• Support onboarding of new employers and prepare statistical analyses of case work and other project-related activities.
• Make recommendations and implement efficiency changes where process gaps are identified.
• Develop, support, and lead initiatives and projects to assist the team in achieving objectives, benchmarks, and goals.

Qualifications & Experience

• Post-secondary degree or diploma in a related field.
• PPAC or CEBS certification required.
• 3-5 years of related work experience in a leadership capacity.
• Advanced knowledge of pension plan administration and related legislation including the OPSEU Pension Plan, Pension Benefits Act, Family Law Act, CPP, Employment Standards Act, and Income Tax Act.
• Knowledge of mathematical methods and principles to assess non-standard cases.
• Research and analytical skills to conduct comprehensive reviews of complex data and documents and provide recommendations.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage changing priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent oral communication skills for delivering presentations, providing technical direction, and training team members and plan members.
• Excellent written communication skills to prepare comprehensive reports for management and plan members.
• High degree of self-motivation, initiative, problem-solving ability, and effective interpersonal skills for building collaborative relationships.