Benefits Specialist; Temp

Job Description Summary

The Benefits Specialist (Temporary) supports the day-to-day administration of Chapman University’s employee benefits programs. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Benefits & Compensation, this role provides critical operational support during a temporary staffing gap, allowing the Senior Benefits Manager to focus on auditing current benefits practices and procedures. This is a hands‑on, detail‑oriented role responsible for accurate and timely benefits transactions across enrollment, eligibility, tuition remission, and retirement processing.

Chapman University’s mission is centered on serving our students and strengthening our campus community. Chapman believes there is significant value in an in‑person workforce. Being present fosters collaboration, strengthens relationships across departments, enables us to better serve our co‑workers and contributes to the student experience. It is an important part of the culture that makes Chapman a special place to work and learn.

• Enroll new hires in applicable benefit plans in a timely and accurate manner
• Process qualifying life event changes, including marriage, birth, divorce, and loss of coverage
• Verify eligibility for employees and their dependents in accordance with plan rules
• Audit benefit enrollments for accuracy and resolve discrepancies
• Perform tuition remission data entry and processing
• Process retirement plan enrollments and changes
• Assist with weekly, biweekly, and monthly insurance carrier data feeds, ensuring files are accurate and transmitted on schedule
• Respond to employee questions regarding benefits enrollment, eligibility, and plan procedures
• Maintain accurate and organized benefits records and documentation
• Other related duties as assigned

• Associate’s degree required; bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business Administration, or a related field preferred or equivalent work experience
• 2+ years of experience in benefits administration or a related HR support role
• Working knowledge of health and welfare benefit plans, eligibility rules, and enrollment processes
• Demonstrates exceptional customer service by providing timely, accurate, and professional support while fostering a positive employee experience
• Responds to employee inquiries with empathy, professionalism, and sound judgment, ensuring consistent follow-through and resolution
• Maintains a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail when processing benefits transactions and employee data
• Demonstrates strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment
• Exercises discretion and maintains strict confidentiality when handling sensitive employee and benefits information
• Communicates effectively, both verbally and in writing, with employees all levels of the organization
• Maintains composure and professionalism while managing competing priorities and responding to changing business needs
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, and able to learn and effectively utilize HRIS and benefits administration systems
• Works effectively both independently and collaboratively, contributing to a positive, team‑oriented work environment

• Familiarity with retirement plan enrollment processes (e.g., 403(b)/401(k)) preferred
• Prior experience with HRIS/benefits administration systems (e.g., People Soft, Workday, ADP, or similar) preferred

At Chapman University, we believe collaboration thrives through in‑person engagement. This position is fully on campus, and employees work alongside colleagues, faculty, students, and staff each day to support our vibrant university community. Chapman University is an equal opportunity employer that provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of their protected characteristics. All qualified applicants and employees are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

Applicants for Staff and Administrator positions must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis. The offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion and outcomes of a criminal background screening and returning to the Office of Human Resources a signed original acceptance of the Chapman University Agreement to Arbitrate.