Benefits Specialist

Our client, a family-owned organization in the maritime industry, is looking for a Benefits Specialist to join their team. With a strong presence in the Pacific Northwest and a focus on investing in their people, this is a great opportunity to join a tight-knit team with an employee-focused culture.

The Benefits Specialist manages company-wide benefits programs, serving as a trusted HR resource for employees and leadership while ensuring accurate administration, regulatory compliance, and a positive employee experience. This role requires strong benefits expertise paired with an employee-centered approach, providing clear, hands‑on guidance and high-quality support through onboarding, benefits, claims, and leave processes.

• Oversee and manage company-wide benefits programs, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, disability, retirement, and wellness initiatives.
• Administer employee leaves of absence and workers’ compensation, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Lead benefits-related onboarding, open enrollment, and employee education efforts.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employees and vendors regarding benefits questions, claims, and coverage issues.
• Maintain accurate benefits documentation, policies, and resources, ensuring compliance with ERISA, ACA, COBRA, HIPAA, and state regulations.
• Partner with internal teams to address benefits-related concerns, support audits, filings, and compliance reporting, and recommend program improvements.

• At least 5 years of experience in benefits administration, with ownership of benefits and leave programs.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field (HR or Benefit related certification is a plus)
• Experience managing programs for mid-sized companies
• Strong knowledge of ERISA, ACA, HIPAA, COBRA, FMLA, OSHA, and state leave laws.
• Excellent communication, project management, and analytical skills.
• Able to work independently and collaboratively across all levels of the organization.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and SharePoint.