Benefits Specialist

Job Description

We are seeking a Benefits Specialist to be an integral part of our company's HR team. This person must have an in-depth knowledge of benefits and the federal and state laws governing them to manage and administer the company's employee benefit and compensation programs, from retirement plans, health insurance, and life insurance, giving presentations and writing information guides to aid employees' understanding of new benefits packages and changes to the enrollment process.

The ideal candidate would be able to build a strong relationship with insurance vendors and brokers to negotiate and secure the best coverage and rates for our employees. It will be required to know how to coordinate an employee's leave in accordance with the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), change contributions in a 401(k) account, enter and monitor payroll deductions, revise benefit packages in compliance with employee needs, and completing annual requirements, such as Census, and ESR.

• Benefits administration: Manage employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, life insurance, disability coverage, other offerings, and contributions in a 401(k) account. Handle changes or updates to employee benefits due to life events like marriage, childbirth, and COBRA administration.
• Benefits enrollment: Meet with employees as needed to guide them through enrollment, help them understand their benefits, and ensure all forms and documents are completed on time.
• Compliance: Ensure the organization’s benefits programs comply with company policies and relevant laws, such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and other regulatory requirements.
• Vendor management: Work with insurance and retirement plan providers and vendors to ensure employee data is enrolled correctly and benefits are delivered on time and as needed.
• Record-keeping: Maintain accurate employee benefits records, enrollment data, and relevant documentation. Will post all benefit payments and coordinate with HR or the payroll team for additional payroll deductions.
• Addressing employee concerns: Respond to employees’ questions regarding benefits, coverage, and eligibility during enrollment.
• Educating employees about benefits programs: Provide accurate and complete information about benefits plan coverages, options, deductibles, employer contributions, employee premiums, enrollment deadlines, and any changes to existing benefits, following a good ethic guideline.
• Cost analysis: Understand the financial implications of different benefit options and compare the expenses of various benefit plans to evaluate their impact on the organization. It also enables coordinators to negotiate competitive rates and ensure that the chosen vendors provide the best value for the company’s investment in benefits programs.